Everything is bigger in Texas—including support for nuclear energy! Though it’s widely considered an oil and gas event, nuclear energy took the main stage at this year’s CERAWeek conference in Houston.
AI is changing the nature of the world.
It came as no surprise that the buzzword of the week was “AI,” as data centers are creating an energy demand like we have never seen, and the pressure is being felt by every energy sector. As we know, Big Tech loves nuclear for its ability to provide 24/7/365 power and do it cleanly. But, at CERAWeek, the consensus was that we need all hands (or energy sources) on deck to meet the energy demand of AI.
I can’t imagine meeting our country’s energy needs without a renaissance of nuclear.
On top of meeting rising demand, leaders from business to politics repeatedly emphasized the importance of reducing carbon emissions. Whether promoting zero-emissions energy sources like nuclear and renewables or exploring solutions around carbon-emitting sources like oil and gas, it was clear that prioritizing clean, climate-friendly energy—without sacrificing cost—is a common goal throughout the energy industry.
Collaboration was also a big theme at CERAWeek; between energy sectors, countries, businesses, governments, political parties, you name it! Everyone wants more clean energy, and they want it built fast.
I think there’s a bipartisan consensus [on the need for permitting reform]. Republicans and Democrats are going to come together on a good solution for this issue.
We have a bright future ahead of us in the American nuclear industry. With demand rising and climate goals closing in, nuclear continues to be a major priority for both the public and private sectors.
President Trump mentioned two sources in his Executive Order on energy dominance: natural gas and nuclear.
We are heading into an exciting era for nuclear energy, both here in the U.S. and around the world. The conversations at CERAWeek made it clear: from powering AI to meeting climate targets to bringing countries, government, and the private sector together, nuclear will play a larger role in the energy mix.
