The U.S. government has entered into a landmark partnership with Canadian firms Cameco and Brookfield Asset Management, the owners of Westinghouse Electric, to construct at least $80 billion worth of new nuclear reactors. This initiative marks one of the most ambitious expansions of U.S. nuclear energy in decades, aligning with President Donald Trump’s vision to strengthen America’s energy independence through oil, gas, coal, and nuclear power.
The deal comes as the rise of artificial intelligence and hyperscale data centers drives the first major surge in U.S. electricity demand in 20 years, pressuring an already strained power grid. Under the agreement, Washington will help secure financing and fast-track permits for Westinghouse’s AP1000 and small modular reactors. In return, the U.S. government will earn a 20% share of future profits after Cameco and Brookfield receive $17.5 billion. If Westinghouse’s valuation exceeds $30 billion by 2029, the government could convert its profit share into an equity stake and potentially mandate an IPO.
Trump also revealed in Tokyo that Japan will contribute up to $332 billion to support U.S. infrastructure projects, including as much as $100 billion in reactor construction led by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Toshiba, and IHI.
Despite the optimism, experts warn that the plan faces major hurdles, including cost overruns, regulatory delays, and public opposition over nuclear waste. The Vogtle reactors in Georgia—completed seven years late at more than double their initial cost—serve as a stark reminder.
Still, momentum for nuclear energy is growing as tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon sign deals for advanced nuclear and fusion power to meet data center energy needs. Recently, Google and NextEra Energy agreed to restart an idle nuclear plant in Iowa, while Microsoft partnered with Constellation Energy to revive a reactor at the historic Three Mile Island site.