Amazon, AEP, and X-energy Explore 960 MW Modular Nuclear Deployment at Indiana Coal Site

American Electric Power Company, Amazon, and advanced reactor designer X-energy are evaluating the deployment of up to 12 small modular nuclear reactors at a former coal facility in Indiana, according to an analysis published by Yahoo Finance (https://finance.yahoo.com/energy/articles/could-american-electric-power-company-051740491.html?.tsrc=rss).

Under the exploratory framework, the 12-reactor cluster would deliver up to 960 megawatts of baseload generation. Amazon is being evaluated as the primary commercial offtaker to supply long-duration clean power for its cloud infrastructure and data center campuses.

The prospective buildout illustrates how large cloud providers are seeking dedicated, continuous power supplies as artificial intelligence workloads place mounting strain on regional grids. Siting small modular reactors (SMRs) at decommissioned coal facilities allows developers to take advantage of existing electrical interconnects, high-voltage transmission lines, and water infrastructure, potentially reducing interconnection delays and capital costs.

For AEP, a US$70.2 billion utility, the initiative fits into a dedicated commercial strategy. The company established AEP Infrastructure to target large-load corporate customers and build generation supported by long-term power purchase agreements, backed by a broader pipeline of roughly 69 gigawatts in projected large-load commitments through 2030.

The project remains at the feasibility assessment stage. Progress toward development will depend on whether AEP, Amazon, and X-energy execute a binding power purchase agreement establishing long-term pricing, volume commitments, and capital obligations.