Southeast Asia plans to invest $208 billion in nuclear power by 2050, aiming to deploy 25 gigawatts of capacity as the region seeks to transition away from coal and gas, according to Wood Mackenzie. The bulk of this investment will target small modular reactors, which are favored for their rapid deployment and regulatory simplicity, despite costing more than conventional nuclear. Vietnam is expected to lead the region, but several other countries are outlining nuclear ambitions, making Southeast Asia a prospective hotspot for nuclear investment if regulatory and financial hurdles can be overcome.

The trend of colocating data centers with behind-the-meter generation is gaining traction and can be a powerful tool for bypassing some grid challenges, but it can also introduce complexities and potentially increase costs. In this episode of the Catalyst podcast, the team discusses the pros and cons of colocation, as well as how batteries and grid-enhancing technologies can help maximize existing grid capacity.

The Department of Energy announced $134 million in funding for fusion energy initiatives, including $128 million for the Fusion Innovative Research Engine collaboratives and $6.1 million for the Innovation Network for Fusion Energy. The FIRE collaboratives aim to create a fusion energy innovation ecosystem, while INFUSE focuses on accelerating private-sector fusion development by fostering collaboration between businesses, national labs and universities.

Nuclear fuel recycling is gaining momentum in the US, with Curio and Oklo making significant progress. Curio has demonstrated its NuCycle process at national laboratories, potentially alleviating difficulties in obtaining uranium hexafluoride, while Oklo plans a $1.6 billion fuel recycling facility in Tennessee. These efforts are crucial as domestic fuel production is limited and bans on Russian and Chinese uranium imports are driving investment in domestic recycling.

EnCore Energy announced it will begin the process of seeking state permits for its Dewey Burdock uranium project in South Dakota ahead of schedule in 2025. This follows an EPA appeals board decision to uphold the project's federal permits, effectively clearing the way for state-level approvals.

Driven by the surging energy needs of AI and data centers, Big Tech companies like Google and Microsoft are investing in nuclear fusion developers such as Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Helion Energy and TAE Technologies. This influx of capital and long-term partnerships is accelerating the sector's growth, enabling developers to advance their technology and move closer to commercial deployment.

ITER has completed a critical test of more than 5,500 superconducting wire samples to be used in its central magnet, a key component for confining plasma. The test, conducted by researchers at Durham University, involved exposing the wires to extreme conditions to ensure they can withstand the reactor's operational demands. ITER, under construction in France since 2010, aims to begin operations in 2034 and launch deuterium-tritium fusion experiments by 2039.