Is there potential for Idaho Falls to become the new Silicon Valley?
In a recent article posted by CNBC "Sam Altman-backed nuclear startup Oklo to start site work for Idaho microreactor".
Nuclear startup Oklo is moving forward with plans to build its first commercial microreactor at Idaho National Laboratory, aiming to break ground in 2026 and begin operations by 2027. This reactor could help turn Idaho into a tech hub by providing affordable, reliable energy for data centers and server infrastructure, which is crucial for industries like AI and cloud computing.
Oklo’s "Aurora" microreactors, ranging from 15 to 100 megawatts, are much smaller than traditional 1,000-megawatt nuclear plants, making them ideal for powering modular data centers. This offers a unique opportunity for tech companies seeking scalable, low-cost energy solutions.
With 1,350 megawatts of customer interest, Oklo's future looks promising. If successful, the Idaho project could pave the way for multiple reactors annually starting in 2028, offering a sustainable energy source for the growing tech industry and positioning Idaho as a key player in both tech and clean energy.