Powering AI With Advanced Nuclear Energy
A policy strategy for revitalizing U.S. nuclear energy
Research sponsored by the National Security Council via Stanford’s Gordian Knot Center
Role
De-Risking Strategy
Lead
Team
Four-person research team
Client
U.S. National Security Council
Methods
39 stakeholder interviews, policy research, case study research
The Policy Challenge
Rapid growth in artificial intelligence is increasing demand for reliable, scalable power. At the same time, fragmented permitting, construction risk, and state-backed competition from China and Russia constrain the U.S. nuclear industry.
The Strategic Response
We developed a coordinated strategy to expedite deployment, de-risk investment, and strengthen U.S. nuclear exports.
My Contribution
I participated in all 39 stakeholder interviews and meetings and conducted broad research that helped the team identify its three-pronged strategy. I then led the de-risking recommendation, developing a cost-overrun insurance framework designed to reduce investment risk and accelerate private-sector participation in advanced nuclear projects.
Research
Mapped the energy, regulatory, financing, and geopolitical landscape. Used AI tools to sift through thousands of pages of policy and research to pull out meaningful data.
Engage
Participated in every interview with government, industry, finance, and academic experts. Lead interviews that concerned finance and investments.
De-Risk
Developed the cost-overrun insurance recommendation and implementation pathway through interviews and research with financial institutions.
From Research to Implementable Policy
Presenting the Strategy
Our team presented its three-part nuclear energy strategy to Tarun Chhabra, coordinator for technology and national security at the National Security Council in Washington, D.C., explaining both the evidence behind the framework and the practical steps required for implementation.
The meeting gave us an opportunity to test our assumptions with an experienced policy practitioner and discuss how technical, financial, and geopolitical considerations shape government decision-making. It also reinforced the importance of translating extensive research into clear, actionable recommendations that can be effectively communicated to senior stakeholders.
Project Output
Published Policy Memo
Our Memo was published by Stanford’s Gordian Knot Center
NSC Interest
Asked to present in the White House
Used As a Case Study
My team is used as a case study within Stanford’s MS&E department about how Ai can augment student’s work