Nvidia joins Gates-backed nuclear startup to power AI's energy needs

Nvidia has invested in TerraPower, a nuclear energy company backed by Bill Gates, to address the energy demands of data centers driven by artificial intelligence growth. Nvidia's venture arm, NVentures, joined a $650 million funding round alongside Gates and HD Hyundai to support the development of advanced small modular reactors (SMRs).

This investment is timely as data centers' electricity needs are projected to double by 2030. TerraPower aims to provide carbon-free energy through its innovative reactor technologies. Their Natrium project in Wyoming will be the first commercial-scale advanced nuclear power plant in the U.S., with operations expected by 2030.

Additionally, TerraPower plans to produce high-assay low-enriched uranium to develop the next generation of nuclear plants.