Aecon secures Canada’s first SMR contract

As AI demand intensifies, so too does the race to power it – securely, reliably, and sustainably. One source of energy, often controversial but increasingly compelling, is stepping into the spotlight with fresh urgency.

A new analysis argues that nuclear energy isn’t just back on the table – it’s becoming central to the global AI arms race. With high energy density and low-carbon credentials, nuclear could be what keeps data centers cool and competitive. But will public perception catch up with technical promise?

Meanwhile, a solar-plus-storage project along India’s eastern corridor is laying the groundwork for regional energy independence. Designed to power critical infrastructure, this hybrid system may become a blueprint for high-reliability electrification in developing grids.

In the USA, another power solution is gaining ground – but with a very different profile. Up to 15GW of off-grid natural gas capacity is being deployed to meet data center needs. The scale is bold, but how sustainable is this approach long term?

A quieter energy revolution is unfolding in Indiana, where microgrids are being piloted not only as backup but as frontline infrastructure. Could this modular model reshape how smaller communities build resilience?

And speaking of resilience – what’s the role of long-duration storage in making renewables reliable? A new proposal calls for smarter, more tailored policy support to help these assets move from niche to necessity.

Hydropower, often overlooked in today’s energy debates, is proving its worth in a very specific way: helping nations bounce back from blackouts. According to a new global index, it’s a key differentiator in energy resilience – with Iceland and Norway leading the charge.

Elsewhere, small modular reactors are making fresh headway, with one collaboration targeting deployment across North America. The partners say their advanced design is ready for both the oil sands and the data boom. Are we finally seeing the SMR moment materialize?

And to wrap up – what if the best way to support the grid is to go off it, at least in part? New research shows microgrids could significantly reduce utility costs and ease pressure on central networks. It’s a compelling argument for distributed energy –especially as demand keeps climbing.

We hope you find this week’s insights valuable. To stay ahead of the curve in the fast-evolving world of decentralized energy – where resilience, flexibility, and innovation drive progress – follow us on LinkedIn for daily updates and breaking news. In the meantime, here’s to another energizing week!

1️⃣ Nuclear Is the Key to Winning AI Race

2️⃣ Don’t Blame Solar: Spain’s Blackout Reveals a Grid Problem, Not a Renewable One

3️⃣ ARC Clean Technology and Nucleon Energy Sign MOU to Explore Deployment of ARC-100 SMR in Alberta and Texas