Nvidia’s CEO tells Rogan AI demand will depend on small nuclear reactors

Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said rapid growth in artificial intelligence will drive widespread use of small nuclear reactors within the next six to seven years. He made the remarks during a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast.

Huang described AI data centers as “gigawatt factories” with power needs too large for existing public grids. He said future facilities will rely on dedicated or off-grid generation, including small modular reactors. He said the units would produce hundreds of megawatts and operate as local power sources for individual companies.

He cited emerging designs under development by Nano Nuclear and Oklo. Their shares rose during the day. He also referred to broader federal efforts supporting next-generation nuclear projects. The Department of Energy is helping the Tennessee Valley Authority and Holtec International advance plans for 300-megawatt reactors in the 2030s.

Huang’s comments came as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued its final safety evaluation for TerraPower’s sodium reactor project in Wyoming. The review clears the way for a construction license expected early next year. TerraPower targets commercial operations in 2031 for its 345-megawatt plant.

The podcast discussion returned to the link between energy supply and rising AI demand. Huang said early actions by President Trump to promote energy production enabled expansion of the domestic AI and chip sectors. He said growth in manufacturing, construction, and electrical work depends on reliable and increasing power supplies.

He contrasted U.S. energy conditions with higher industrial prices in parts of Europe. He said U.S. additions of new generating capacity across renewable and conventional sources have supported continued development of AI infrastructure. Federal estimates indicate more than 100 gigawatts of additional capacity will be needed by 2032.

Huang said energy remains the central constraint on future AI facilities. He said money can be created, but energy cannot, underscoring the limits facing the industry.