Amazon Funds SMR Construction to Meet Surging AI Power Demand

Release Overview

Amazon has announced funding for a project to install a total of 12 Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) on the site of a decommissioned coal-fired power plant in Indiana. This initiative aims to secure a carbon-free and stable energy supply to support the rapidly growing electricity demands of AI data centers.

Background and Objectives

Operating data centers requires a massive and continuous supply of stable power 24/7. Integrating nuclear power as a baseload power source—alongside renewable energy—is a strategic decision by Amazon to achieve its carbon-neutrality goals while ensuring the reliable energy supply necessary for its AI business.

Technical Features of the Project

This project utilizes Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are smaller and more flexible to deploy than traditional large-scale nuclear power plants. By utilizing existing power infrastructure and the former power plant site in Indiana, the plan aims to reduce the burden of building new transmission grids while revitalizing the regional energy network.

Future Outlook

Moving forward, Amazon will promote the modernization of energy infrastructure through the development of this SMR hub. The approach of reusing a decommissioned coal-fired plant site is expected to serve as a model case for building a sustainable power supply system, with continued validation and implementation planned.