Oklo and X-Energy Compete to Be First in Nuclear Power for AI Data Centers
As artificial intelligence data centers demand more electricity than ever, two companies—Oklo (NYSE: OKLO) and X-Energy (NASDAQ: XE)—are racing to deploy nuclear reactors that can meet this growing need. Oklo has already begun construction on its Aurora-INL reactor in Idaho Falls under the Department of Energy’s Reactor Pilot Program, with a target launch date set for 2028. The company is gaining momentum and expects significant demand from data centers by then. X-Energy, meanwhile, is pursuing a more traditional licensing route through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), which could delay its first reactor but may offer clearer pathways to commercial scale in the long run. While Oklo appears poised to generate power sooner, X-Energy’s approach might allow for broader deployment of reactors once regulatory hurdles are cleared. The race highlights a strategic trade-off between speed and scalability: Oklo aims to be first with one operational reactor while X-Energy focuses on building a commercial fleet.
Topics: AI data centers energy demand nuclear energy Oklo X-Energy