You might think AI is taking over the world, but it's running into a big problem: power. AI needs tons of energy to work, and tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon are turning to nuclear power to keep up. But is this a smart move or just another risk? Let's find out.

AI companies want more power because they're growing fast. But renewable energy like wind and solar isn't enough. Nuclear power, on the other hand, can provide a lot of energy without emitting much carbon. That's why Microsoft is reopening a reactor at Three Mile Island, where there was a partial meltdown in 1979. Amazon wants to build a data center near a nuclear plant too.

But wait, isn't nuclear power dangerous? Yes, it can be. But experts say we understand it better now than before the Three Mile Island accident. Still, it's not foolproof. And what if there's another accident? We don't want that.

So, what's the deal? AI companies need more power, and they think nuclear is the answer. But it might take years for new projects to start working. In the meantime, data centers will keep using fossil fuels, which are bad for the environment.

What do we get from all this? AI can help with stuff like emails and search engines, but is that worth the risk of accidents and more pollution? It's a big question, and we should think about it carefully. Our jobs, the environment, and even our sense of purpose are at stake. But will we benefit in the end? That's still unclear.

AI's Big Power Problem: Nuclear or Bust?

Actions