Powering the Future: Why the UK Must Embrace Nuclear for AI Growth

The CEO of Amazon Web Services (AWS) has highlighted the urgent need for more nuclear energy in the UK to support the burgeoning demands of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly due to the energy-intensive nature of data centres.

AWS plans to invest a staggering £8 billion in new data centres over the next four years. These facilities, crucial for powering AI and streaming services, can consume energy equivalent to that of a small town. Garman emphasized that nuclear energy is a “great solution” due to its ability to provide zero carbon, 24/7 power.

Currently, the UK hosts around 500 data centres that account for 2.5% of the nation’s electricity usage, with projections indicating this could increase to 6% by 2030. In comparison, Ireland’s 80 data centres utilize 21% of its total power supply. Forecasts warn that by 2050, data centres may consume nearly as much energy as all current industrial sectors combined. Garman indicated that planning for future energy needs is vital, suggesting that nuclear will play a significant role, especially with rapidly increasing reliance on AI.

The French energy company EDF is notably engaged in constructing a new nuclear plant at Hinkley Point, with prospects of additional plants. Their UK chairman echoed the sentiment that nuclear energy is essential for powering the digital economy. New technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), could play a transformative role, capable of providing energy in a more compact footprint compared to traditional nuclear plants.

Despite the advantages, the path to integrating nuclear energy is fraught with challenges. The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero recognizes that SMRs will be crucial, but these technologies are years away from deployment. Potential investors face long waits for grid connections, hampering growth in energy-heavy sectors like AI.

Amidst these energy discussions, AWS noted that 52% of businesses are currently utilizing AI, with a new company adopting the technology every minute. Garman heralds AI as one of the most transformative technologies since the internet, while acknowledging public apprehension surrounding its rapid progression. He cautioned against excessive international regulations, suggesting that regulators may struggle to keep pace with innovations. Instead, he stresses the importance of putting controls and guardrails in place to ensure AI benefits society rather than hinders it.

The article underlines a crucial crossroads for the UK’s energy policy and technological advancements, as the need for nuclear energy grows in parallel with the rising implementation of AI across various sectors.