Business editor Simon Jack from BBC interviewed Matt Garman, the chief executive of Amazon Web Services (AWS), who emphasized the need for more nuclear energy to power data centers that support artificial intelligence (AI). AWS, a major player in cloud computing, has allocated £8bn for new data centers in the UK over the next four years. Garman pointed out that data centers require significant energy, and nuclear power presents a viable solution due to its zero carbon emissions and ability to provide constant power.
AWS is a key investor in renewable energy projects, with over 40 solar and wind farm initiatives supported in the UK. Currently, the UK’s 500 data centers consume 2.5% of the country’s electricity, with predictions indicating a potential increase to 6% by 2030. Garman stressed the importance of long-term energy planning, highlighting the necessity of new technologies like nuclear power in meeting future energy demands. French company EDF, currently constructing a nuclear plant at Hinkley Point, echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the reliability and power capacity of nuclear energy.
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are also being explored as a more flexible and scalable alternative to traditional nuclear power plants like Sizewell and Hinkley. Amazon has already entered partnerships with SMR firms to develop these compact reactors, aligning with the government’s efforts to facilitate nuclear power station construction for sectors with high energy demands like AI. While the potential of nuclear energy for data centers is recognized, challenges such as lengthy grid connection processes and high costs of traditional nuclear plants may delay widespread adoption.
In terms of AI regulation, Garman highlighted the rapid growth of AI adoption among businesses and its transformative impact on various industries. He acknowledged public apprehension about new technologies, emphasizing the importance of responsible deployment to ensure societal benefit. Garman expressed caution towards international regulations, citing the fast-paced nature of technology development as a potential barrier for effective oversight. Despite this, he emphasized the need for thoughtful consideration of AI’s impact and ethical guidelines to maximize its positive contributions to society
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