Industry Overview - Nuclear energy is increasingly recognized as a crucial solution for the growing demand for clean electricity, providing reliable, carbon-free generation compared to intermittent sources like solar and wind [2][5] - The sector is experiencing a revival, highlighted by the restart of a previously closed U.S. nuclear facility, which reflects rising investor interest in nuclear energy stocks [2][3] Regulatory and Technological Developments - Updated regulations and advancements in research and development are promoting the growth of microreactors and small modular reactors, creating new opportunities in the nuclear energy sector [3] - Government initiatives to enhance domestic uranium supply are further supporting the industry's momentum [3] Company Initiatives - Meta Platforms (META) has secured long-term nuclear power agreements with Vistra Corp. (VST), TerraPower, and Oklo Inc. (OKLO) to obtain up to 6.6 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2035, alongside a previous agreement for 1.12 GW with Constellation Energy [4] - NextEra Energy (NEE) operates several nuclear generation units, which are integral to its clean energy strategy, providing steady, carbon-free baseload power that complements its wind and solar portfolio [8][9] Investment Opportunities - Nuclear energy-related stocks, such as NextEra Energy, Vistra, and Oklo, are becoming attractive investment options due to their ability to provide consistent energy output [5][7] - Other stocks like Ameren Corporation (AEE) and BHP Group Limited (BHP) are also highlighted as potential stable returns in the nuclear energy space [7] Operational Performance - NextEra Energy's ongoing investments in the modernization of its nuclear facilities ensure high operational performance, safety, and regulatory compliance, with low operating costs and protection from fossil fuel price fluctuations [9] - Vistra Corp. has expanded its nuclear capacity through the acquisition of Energy Harbor and has secured long-term power purchase agreements, including a significant deal with Meta [11][12] Small Modular Reactors - Oklo Inc. is focusing on small-scale nuclear reactors to meet the energy demands of industries like data centers, utilizing established technology to minimize technical risks [13] - Oklo has signed a long-term power supply agreement with Meta to provide nearly 1.2 gigawatts for its data centers, showcasing the demand for innovative nuclear solutions [14]