BNN Bloomberg Interview - October 21, 2024

Summary

Corporate support for nuclear energy is at an all-time high, driven by tech giants like Alphabet and Microsoft seeking reliable, clean energy for AI operations. Seth Gray, CEO of Lightbridge, discusses innovations in nuclear fuel that promise to enhance reactor efficiency and safety. Their partnership with the Idaho National Laboratory aims to produce advanced fuel that operates at significantly lower temperatures while increasing power output. As interest in small modular reactors grows, Lightbridge positions itself as a leader in the nuclear sector, ready to support global commitments to expand nuclear energy usage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Corporate support for nuclear energy is currently stronger than it has been since the 1970s.
• 😀 Major tech companies like Alphabet, Google, and Microsoft are pursuing nuclear power deals to secure clean, round-the-clock energy for their AI facilities and data centers.
• 😀 There has been a surge in share prices for firms involved in nuclear engineering and uranium production.
• 😀 Like Bridge is partnering with the Idaho National Laboratory to develop innovative nuclear fuel rods.
• 😀 The new fuel aims to significantly enhance power output, increase reactor longevity, and improve safety.
• 😀 The innovative fuel will have significantly less plutonium, allowing reactors to operate at lower temperatures.
• 😀 The temperature of the new fuel is approximately 1000 degrees Celsius cooler than current reactor fuels.
• 😀 Effective cooling of fuel rods is crucial to prevent excess heat from being released into the reactor system.
• 😀 Most modern reactors are designed without large cooling towers, capturing and utilizing heat for industrial processes.
• 😀 Like Bridge is positioned to lead in the growing nuclear power sector and is set to engage with countries committed to expanding nuclear energy.

Q & A

What is the current trend in corporate support for nuclear energy?

Corporate support for nuclear energy is stronger than it has been since the 1970s, with companies like Alphabet, Google, and Microsoft seeking deals to secure nuclear power for their AI facilities and data centers.

What innovative project is Lightbridge Corporation working on?

Lightbridge Corporation is developing a new type of nuclear fuel that aims to significantly enhance power output, prolong fuel life, and improve safety in existing and new reactors.

How does the new fuel from Lightbridge enhance reactor performance?

The new fuel can operate at temperatures approximately 1000 degrees Celsius cooler than current fuel, allowing reactors to produce more power while enhancing safety.

What role does Idaho National Laboratory play in Lightbridge's development?

Idaho National Laboratory is partnering with Lightbridge to produce samples of their innovative nuclear fuel material for testing in large research reactors.

Why is it important to manage heat in nuclear reactors?

Proper heat management is crucial to prevent overheating, which can lead to safety risks. The goal is to keep the fuel cool and effectively transfer heat to water for electricity generation.

What is a significant feature of Lightbridge's fuel in terms of plutonium content?

Lightbridge's new fuel contains significantly less plutonium, which enhances safety and efficiency in nuclear reactors.

What advantages does the new metallurgical technology provide?

The new metallurgical technology allows for the reimagining of nuclear fuel, enabling its use in existing reactors and potentially bringing more reactors online.

How does nuclear energy generation balance electricity and heat production?

Nuclear reactors produce about one-third of their energy in the form of electricity and two-thirds as heat, which can be captured and utilized for high-temperature industrial processes.

What is the significance of small modular reactors in the current nuclear landscape?

Small modular reactors represent a growing area in nuclear power, and companies like Lightbridge are positioning themselves to lead in this sector.

What upcoming event is Lightbridge Corporation participating in?

Lightbridge Corporation is set to attend a significant event in Baku next month, focusing on global commitments and advancements in nuclear power.