Amazon and Energy Northwest Partner to Establish Nuclear Reactors in Washington State

ICARO Media Group
Politics
29/10/2024 20h10

**Amazon Teams Up with Energy Northwest to Roll Out Nuclear Reactors in Washington**

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, Amazon has announced a plan to develop four nuclear reactors along the Columbia River in Washington. Teaming up with Energy Northwest, the e-commerce and tech giant aims to station the small modular reactors (SMRs) near the existing Columbia Generating Station in Richland, Washington.

Kevin Miller, Amazon's vice president of global data centers, emphasized that the investment in nuclear energy is a crucial step in helping the company power its operations with carbon-free energy. "This new SMR project is a significant step toward Amazon's Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon across our operations by 2040, and signifies our continued dedication to becoming a more sustainable company," Miller stated.

Energy Northwest has revealed that the four reactors will collectively generate 320 megawatts of energy, which could be expanded to up to 960 megawatts with the addition of eight more reactors. For perspective, the Northwest Power and Conservation Council notes that an average megawatt is sufficient to power 796 homes annually.

Rick Dunn, General Manager of Benton Public Utility District, responded enthusiastically to Amazon's plan. "Amazon's announced investment in small modular reactors gives me hope for the future of the Northwest power grid," Dunn said. He highlighted the capability of nuclear power to provide reliable, non-emitting electricity needed to meet society's around-the-clock energy demands and aggressive electrification goals. "I am ecstatic and deeply grateful to Amazon for their bold and visionary leadership," Dunn added.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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