Why it matters

AI’s explosive growth is pushing energy demand beyond what our grid can handle. Traditional power infrastructure, built for 2-3% annual growth, now faces double-digit increases, and nuclear may be the only scalable answer.

The big picture

Creekstone Energy is partnering with EnergySolutions to explore nuclear power at Utah’s Gigasite project in Delta, a move that reflects a broader industry shift as tech companies scramble to secure reliable, emissions-free energy.

• Data centers are creating unprecedented power demands nationwide
• Major tech players like Amazon and Microsoft have already moved toward nuclear, bidding on existing plants
• Utah’s “all of the above” energy policy positions it as an ideal testing ground, with solar, natural gas, coal, and now potentially nuclear all in one location

What they’re saying

“If we need to address emissions and need to address environmental concerns, nuclear actually ends up being the only scalable solution,” says Creekstone Energy CEO Ray Conley.

President Trump’s recent State of the Union address signaled support for tech companies building their own power plants to meet AI energy demands, validating what the industry already knows: the excess energy cushion is gone.

What to expect

Nuclear takes time. Permitting, siting, and construction mean this is a long-term play. Traditional sources and renewables will bridge the gap while nuclear infrastructure comes online over the next several years.

EnergySolutions brings critical expertise in waste remediation and plant evaluation, helping ensure the right technology choices for Utah’s unique market.

The bottom line

Without innovative energy solutions like nuclear, AI growth could mean skyrocketing power bills for everyday consumers. By generating power behind the meter, disconnected from the grid, projects like the Gigasite aim to fuel AI advancement without burdening the public infrastructure or your electric bill.