AI and Nuclear Power: A Converging Future Fraught with Risk
The rapidly expanding use of artificial intelligence (AI) is placing unprecedented demands on global electrical grids, leading many to believe that a significant expansion of nuclear energy is essential to meet these needs without exacerbating the climate crisis. Still, this convergence of AI and nuclear power is not without its perils, particularly concerning the potential militarization of AI and its impact on nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) systems.
The Growing Demand for Energy and AI’s Role
Global electricity demand is projected to increase by over 10,000 terawatt-hours by 2035, equivalent to the current total consumption of all advanced economies 1. A significant driver of this growth is the proliferation of AI technology, which relies heavily on data centers. A medium-sized data center consumes as much electricity as 100,000 households 2. The International Energy Agency estimates that data center demand increased by more than three-quarters between 2023 and 2024 and is expected to account for over 20% of electricity demand growth in advanced economies by 2030 2. In the United States, AI-driven data processing is predicted to surpass the combined electricity consumption of the aluminum, steel, cement, and chemical production industries by the end of the decade 2.
Exploring the Synergy: AI and Nuclear Innovation
In December 2025, policymakers, technology companies, and nuclear industry leaders convened at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) headquarters in Vienna to explore the potential for nuclear power to support the expansion of AI and, conversely, how AI could drive innovation within the nuclear industry 1. This meeting highlighted the growing recognition of the interconnectedness between these two fields.
The Risks of AI in Nuclear Command and Control
Alongside the potential benefits, the integration of AI into nuclear systems presents significant risks. The United Nations has emphasized that decisions regarding the use of nuclear weapons must remain under human control, warning that incorporating AI into NC3 systems poses an unacceptable threat to global security 3. Key concerns include:
- Accelerated Decision-Making: AI systems can process information and respond at speeds beyond human capacity, potentially reducing the time available for careful deliberation and increasing the risk of errors 3.
- Cyberattack Vulnerability: AI-enhanced systems expand the attack surface for adversaries, creating new opportunities for cyberattacks that could compromise nuclear systems 3.
- Erosion of Strategic Stability: The introduction of AI into nuclear decision-making could destabilize existing strategic balances and increase the risk of unintended escalation 3.
- Data Quality and Reliability: AI systems are reliant on the quality of the data they are trained on. In the complex and high-stakes environment of nuclear command and control, ensuring data accuracy and integrity is paramount 3.
- Accountability: Determining responsibility when an AI system contributes to a catastrophic outcome is a complex legal and ethical challenge 3.
The Demand for International Collaboration
Despite these challenges, international collaboration is crucial for managing the risks associated with AI in nuclear systems. Confidence-building measures, shared technical standards, and enforceable agreements on the limits of AI autonomy could help preserve strategic stability. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a global dialogue on AI governance, ensuring that all countries have a voice in shaping the future of this technology 2.
Looking Ahead
The convergence of AI and nuclear power presents both opportunities and dangers. While AI can potentially enhance the efficiency and safety of nuclear energy, its integration into nuclear command and control systems demands careful consideration and robust safeguards. The international community must prioritize human control, data integrity, and international cooperation to mitigate the risks and ensure a secure future.