AI energy demand spurs nuclear and fusion power race

The escalating energy needs of artificial intelligence are driving significant investment and competition in the nuclear and fusion power sectors. While natural gas has been a go-to for baseload power, supply chain vulnerabilities and long wait times for turbines are pushing tech companies to explore alternatives. Small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) and fusion startups are emerging as strong contenders, with several aiming for commercial operation within the next five to seven years. Companies like Kairos Power, Oklo, TerraPower, and Helion are developing advanced reactor technologies, with some already securing major customers like Google, Microsoft, and potentially OpenAI, signaling a potential shift in the energy market.