Nuclear Energy Stocks Poised for Surge Amidst Booming AI Data Center Demand

January 6, 2026

The burgeoning artificial intelligence sector, with its insatiable appetite for power, is driving significant interest in nuclear energy stocks. Data centers, essential for AI operations, are projected to dramatically increase their energy consumption, making nuclear power a critical component of future energy infrastructure. This trend, coupled with government initiatives to expand nuclear capacity, is creating a favorable environment for companies in the nuclear energy sector.

Key Takeaways

AI-driven data centers are expected to significantly increase energy demand.
The U.S. government is promoting nuclear energy expansion and domestic uranium supply.
Several nuclear energy-related stocks are showing strong performance and are recommended for long-term investment.

The AI Energy Crunch

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, but the computational power required for AI applications comes at a high energy cost. Data centers, the backbone of AI, are experiencing a surge in energy consumption. Projections indicate that data center energy usage in the U.S. could double or even triple by 2028, a substantial increase from the past decade. This escalating demand is positioning nuclear energy as a vital, carbon-free solution.

Government Support for Nuclear Power

Recognizing the potential of nuclear energy, the U.S. government has taken steps to bolster the sector. Executive orders have been signed to accelerate the deployment of new nuclear reactors and strengthen the domestic supply chain. The ambitious goal is to increase the nation’s nuclear energy capacity from 100 gigawatts to 400 gigawatts by 2050. These initiatives also prioritize the construction of reactors near military installations and AI data center hubs, while emphasizing the importance of a domestic uranium supply.

Promising Nuclear Energy Stocks to Watch

Several companies within the nuclear energy ecosystem are attracting investor attention. These include producers, equipment manufacturers, and input suppliers. Analysts are closely monitoring a select group of stocks that have demonstrated strong performance and are expected to offer solid long-term returns. Investors are advised to consider dips in these stocks as potential buying opportunities.

Constellation Energy Corp. (CEG): A leading U.S. energy company with a focus on clean energy, including nuclear. CEG is investing in nuclear fuel and expanding its operations, notably through agreements with Microsoft and Meta Platforms to power their data centers.
Vistra Corp. (VST): An integrated electricity and power generation company with a diversified clean energy portfolio that includes nuclear assets. VST is well-positioned to benefit from government initiatives and the growing demand for reliable, clean power.
Mirion Technologies Inc. (MIR): Provides radiation detection, measurement, and monitoring products and services crucial for operational nuclear facilities and the development of next-generation reactors. MIR is actively involved with small modular reactor (SMR) developers.
BWX Technologies Inc. (BWXT): Manufactures nuclear components and provides services to the commercial nuclear power industry. BWXT is expanding its commercial power segment and is involved in cutting-edge projects, including micro-nuclear reactors.
Cameco Corp. (CCJ): One of the world’s largest uranium producers, supplying fuel for nuclear power plants globally. Cameco’s role in the uranium supply chain is critical as demand for nuclear energy rises.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) Gain Traction

Beyond traditional large-scale reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs) are emerging as a key technology. Companies like Oklo, Inc. (OKLO) and NuScale Power Corp. (SMR) are developing SMRs, with stocks showing significant gains. These advanced reactor designs offer flexibility and are seen as a crucial part of meeting future energy demands, particularly for specialized applications like powering AI infrastructure.