The first International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Energy opened Wednesday, spotlighting how nuclear power could meet surging electricity demand from AI data centers and how AI can advance nuclear technology.
“Two forces are reshaping humanity’s horizon at an unprecedented pace: the rise of artificial intelligence and the global transition towards clean, reliable energy,” said Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, at the opening ceremony.
Grossi highlighted nuclear energy’s low‑carbon generation, reliability and scalability. The International Energy Agency estimates data centers consumed 1.5% of global electricity in 2024, a share that could double by 2030.
AI tools can optimize reactor performance, streamline construction and boost efficiency while maintaining safety standards, officials said.
China Atomic Energy Authority vice chairman Liu Jing told delegates his country is integrating AI across the nuclear industry chain and is ready to cooperate with the IAEA and partners.
The two‑day event at IAEA headquarters drew more than 500 representatives from governments, international organizations, the nuclear sector and major tech firms.