Nuclear-Powered Data Centres: An Answer to Energy Security?

This growth is placing immense strain on electricity grids, with data centres already consuming up to 20% of Ireland’s electricity—a figure expected to hit 30% by 2028. In response, nuclear energy, particularly in the form of small modular reactors (SMRs), is being considered as a low-carbon, reliable solution. While nuclear offers steady power with minimal emissions, the authors caution that its reliance on imported uranium—mainly from Kazakhstan, Niger, and Russia—poses challenges to energy independence and security. The authors argue that although nuclear may not be the self-sufficient energy source it appears to be, robust international partnerships could help address these vulnerabilities and support its integration into future energy strategies.

Read the full article on New Civil Engineer here.

*Iona Gilby in a Trainee Solicitor in the London office.