AI’s Power Needs Mean Small Nukes Can’t Fail, DOE Official Says

Surging electricity demand for artificial intelligence and data centers means next-generation nuclear power “can’t fail,” according to a top US Energy Department official.

David Crane, undersecretary for infrastructure at the department, said he’s now “very bullish” on emerging designs for so-called small modular reactors. That’s a significant shift from his earlier stance, when “I didn’t really see” a case for using the technology.

The comments underscore the need for new power sources to meet demand from AI, electric vehicles and factories after about a decade of flat electricity usage. This demand is spurring interest in SMRs, said Crane.

“It’s ...