Chevron CEO Champions Nuclear Energy Technology for Future Solutions

Chevron CEO Mike Wirth recently expressed his support for small modular nuclear reactors, highlighting their potential role in the future energy landscape. Speaking at the Atlantic Council, Wirth emphasized the need for diverse energy solutions, particularly in light of the growing demand for carbon-free energy sources in the tech sector.

Key Takeaways

• Support for Nuclear Technology: Wirth advocates for small modular nuclear reactors as a viable energy solution.
• Chevron's Involvement: The company has previously invested in nuclear technology and is open to further involvement.
• Decarbonization Potential: Small modular reactors could help decarbonize energy supply in remote locations.
• Broader Energy Solutions: Wirth calls for a more inclusive approach to energy solutions, emphasizing innovation.

The Promise of Small Modular Reactors

During his address, Wirth noted that small modular nuclear reactors have gained traction in the tech industry, with major companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft entering into nuclear energy agreements to support their AI operations. These companies require substantial electricity, and traditional carbon-free energy sources may not meet their needs quickly enough.

Wirth stated, "A way to decarbonize that would be with small modular nuclear in some of these remote locations. And so I'm a fan of the technology. I want to see it be successful. I think the world needs it, and there could be a role for a company like ours."

The Need for Diverse Energy Solutions

Wirth's comments come at a time when the energy sector is grappling with the urgent need for sustainable solutions. He challenged the notion of rejecting nuclear energy outright, arguing that a broader perspective is necessary to address climate change effectively.

"Are we serious about climate, or are we just trying to say no to things?" he questioned, advocating for the inclusion of various energy technologies in the conversation about climate solutions.

Industry Perspectives on Nuclear Energy

While Wirth is optimistic about the future of nuclear energy, his counterpart at Exxon Mobil, Darren Woods, offered a more cautious outlook. At a recent conference, Woods warned that the small modular reactors favored by Silicon Valley may not be commercially viable for another decade.

He stated, "If you’re betting on nuclear and something coming down the road, there’s a long road ahead of us." This perspective highlights the challenges and timelines associated with bringing new nuclear technologies to market.

Conclusion

As the energy landscape evolves, the dialogue around nuclear energy continues to grow. With leaders like Mike Wirth advocating for innovative solutions, the potential for small modular nuclear reactors to play a significant role in the future of energy is becoming increasingly recognized. The intersection of technology and energy presents both challenges and opportunities, and the industry's response will be crucial in shaping a sustainable future.

Sources

• U.S. oil giant’s CEO is a fan of this nuclear energy technology and thinks there could be a role ‘for a company like ours’, Yahoo.