While construction of small modular reactors (SMRs), a next-generation nuclear technology, is widely seen as the leading candidate for the third round of investment and financing in the US, the Japanese government has adopted an eager stance against the backdrop of US involvement, while industry has maintained its cool view. The backdrop is the view that data-center electricity demand will accelerate amid the struggle for global dominance in AI.
Construction of small modular reactors (SMRs) by US-based NuScale Power has emerged as the leading candidate for the third round of investment and financing in the US. The US positions securing electricity supplies for data centers as part of establishing global dominance in AI, and is aligning with the Japanese government in promoting investment in the US, but industry remains cautious.