Amazon Bets Big on Small Modular Nuclear Reactors for a Greener Energy Future

October 11, 2025

Amazon has announced a significant investment in small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) as part of its ongoing efforts to transition to net-zero carbon operations and address soaring energy needs driven by data center growth and electrification. The tech giant aims to power its future operations—and much of the communities it serves—with reliable, carbon-free nuclear energy.

Key Takeaways

Amazon will support development of next-generation SMRs in Washington and Virginia.
The company will invest in X-energy’s advanced nuclear technology, targeting over 5 GW of future projects.
Up to 1,000 temporary and 100 permanent jobs expected from the Washington project.
Move comes as rising AI and data center demand accelerate pressure on US electricity grids.

Amazon’s Commitment to Nuclear Innovation

Amazon’s evolving energy strategy reached a new milestone with agreements to develop several SMR projects, including collaboration with Energy Northwest in Washington and Dominion Energy in Virginia. In Washington, Amazon is funding the feasibility phase for four advanced SMRs near the Columbia Generating Station, planning to secure around 320 megawatts (MW) of initial capacity—enough to power hundreds of thousands of homes—with the possibility of scaling up to 960 MW.

Amazon will also explore an SMR project near Dominion’s North Anna nuclear station in Virginia, aiming to provide over 300 MW as regional power demand is forecasted to jump 85% in 15 years.

Partnering With Pioneers: X-Energy and Energy Northwest

The Washington project hinges on X-energy’s Xe-100 high-temperature, gas-cooled reactor technology. Amazon’s investment will help X-energy expand its manufacturing capabilities and further new generation SMR designs. Energy Northwest, the local public utility coalition, has long sought funding for SMR innovation and now anticipates construction could begin as early as 2031, pending regulatory steps.

This partnership reflects Amazon’s broader plan to bring more than 5 GW of SMR-powered capacity to the national grid by 2039, the largest commercial SMR initiative to date.

Local Economic and Environmental Impact

Amazon’s investment is set to provide a major boost to local economies. The Washington effort is projected to create up to 1,000 construction jobs and more than 100 permanent skilled positions once operational. Ongoing expansion could offer continued employment for tradespeople as new SMR modules are added incrementally.

Meanwhile, the sourcing of clean, reliable nuclear power helps utilities meet stringent zero-emission targets, particularly as traditional coal-fired plants retire and demand for electricity from AI and data centers surges. The Department of Energy projects that data centers alone could account for up to 9% of U.S. power needs by 2030.

Positioning For a Sustainable, High-Tech Future

Amazon’s SMR push underscores the role pioneering corporations can play in decarbonizing the energy grid while supporting economic development. As major tech, manufacturing, and transportation sectors electrify rapidly, securing scalable, non-emitting power sources is vital. These new nuclear initiatives demonstrate Amazon’s ambition to lead on both sustainability and innovation, responding to climate and business imperatives alike.