Amazon invests in nuclear power for Indiana datacenters

Amazon has announced its investment in a nuclear facility in Indiana aimed at providing nearly 1 gigawatt of energy for its datacenters. This project is in collaboration with X-energy, a startup focusing on small modular reactors (SMRs) that will utilize TRISO fuel pellets and be cooled with helium gas. While Amazon stated it is investing billions in nuclear energy projects, it has not specified the amount allocated to this particular initiative.

## Why it matters Amazon's decision to invest in nuclear energy, particularly with unproven technologies, reflects a broader trend towards seeking sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. This could significantly impact how major tech companies manage their carbon footprints and energy needs.

## What we know The project will focus on developing 12 Xe-100 reactors in Sullivan County, Indiana, on the site of a former coal power plant. Amazon's investment aligns with its commitment to expand its energy infrastructure and could help reduce its reliance on more polluting energy sources.

## What remains unclear It is still unconfirmed when the facility is expected to become operational, nor has there been detailed information on how the challenges associated with nuclear technology, which is still considered immature, will be addressed. Additionally, Amazon has not provided specific information on the investment amount, leaving the scope and feasibility of the project in question.