Amazon bets on modular nuclear reactors to scale carbon-free power

Amazon is advancing its sustainability and carbon-free energy goals by investing in a new small modular reactor (SMR) facility called the Cascade Advanced Energy Facility in Washington state. In partnership with Energy Northwest and SMR developer X-energy, Amazon plans to build up to 12 next-generation Xe-100 reactors near the Columbia Generating Station in Richland. These reactors, smaller and safer than traditional nuclear plants, offer faster construction, lower costs, and flexible deployment. The initial capacity of the facility will be 320 megawatts, with potential expansion to 960 MW, aiming to power Amazon’s operations and support the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the decade, with operations targeted for the 2030s. The project is not only a significant step for Amazon’s carbon reduction efforts but also a boost to the local economy, creating over 1,000 construction jobs and more than 100 permanent positions in engineering and nuclear operations. To support