Nuclear Energy and SMRs - Interest in NuScale and similar SMR companies is high, but widespread implementation is not expected until the 2030s [1] - NuScale has received standard design approval for its 50 MWe modular reactors but upsized the design to 77 MWe for better economics [2] - NuScale agreed with Standard Power to develop two facilities in Ohio and Pennsylvania, offering 24 units of 77 MWe modules producing 1,848 MWe of energy, with operations likely starting in 2029 [13] - NuScale's larger SMR has not yet received SDA approval, with management expecting approval by mid-2025, but full certification is projected to take a couple more years [15] - The nuclear energy market and SMR technology are still in their infancy, with NuScale facing hurdles before commercialization [12] Bloom Energy and Fuel Cell Technology - Bloom Energy's fuel cell technology can address energy needs today, with deployment possible in as little as 50 days [3] - Bloom Energy provides reliable, low-carbon energy and microgrid solutions through its solid-oxide fuel cell technology, which operates on various fuels including natural gas, biogas, and hydrogen [6] - On Nov 14, Bloom Energy signed an agreement with American Electric Power to purchase up to 1 GW of solid-state fuel cells, with an initial order of 100 MW and plans to ramp up orders in 2025 [7] - Bloom Energy's recent agreement with American Electric Power is considered a potential game-changer and could lead to more deals in 2025 [14] - Bloom Energy's stock increased by 186% in November following the significant agreement [5] Energy Demand and Industry Trends - Global energy demand is rising, with some turning to nuclear energy and companies like NuScale Power attracting interest for their SMR technology [4] - The AI industry is rapidly transforming technology, leading to a surge in energy demand and the need for reliable, sustainable energy solutions [11][16] - Companies are pursuing scalable, renewable energy sources to support their expanding needs as AI applications multiply across industries [8] - Bloom Energy is positioned as an emerging energy provider that can meet near-term energy needs, giving it more near-term upside compared to NuScale [10]
Move Over, NuScale Power: This Little-Known Energy Stock Could Be a Better Buy in 2025