Oklo and Vistra Shares Surge as Meta Turns to Nuclear Power for AI
Oklo and Vistra Shares Surge as Meta Turns to Nuclear Power for AI
Shares of nuclear energy companies rose sharply after Meta Platforms announced new agreements to buy nuclear power for its growing artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. The move highlights how big tech firms are turning to alternative energy sources as AI demand pushes electricity use higher.
Oklo and Vistra Lead Nuclear Stocks Higher
Following the announcement, Oklo Inc. shares surged by as much as 19%, while Vistra Corp. climbed up to 16% in a single trading session. Other companies in the nuclear space also benefited from the news.
NuScale Power, another nuclear technology firm, moved higher, alongside uranium producers such as Centrus Energy and Cameco. The market reaction suggests growing investor confidence in nuclear energy as a long-term solution for AI-related power needs.
Meta Signs Long-Term Nuclear Power Deals
Meta confirmed that it signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Vistra, covering electricity from two of Vistra’s existing nuclear power plants. The long-term nature of the deal signals Meta’s commitment to securing stable and reliable energy for its operations.
In addition, Meta reached a separate agreement with Oklo, a company backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. This partnership is focused on advancing small modular reactor (SMR) technology. While SMRs are still under development and not yet commercially operational, they are widely viewed as a potential next step in nuclear energy.
Why AI Is Driving Demand for Nuclear Energy
Modern AI systems require enormous computing power, which in turn demands massive and consistent electricity supply. As data centers expand, traditional power grids are under strain, and energy availability has become one of the biggest challenges for the tech industry.
According to Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives, the Meta deal is “incrementally positive” for the nuclear sector. He noted that it reinforces the idea that major technology companies, often called hyperscalers, are actively searching for new energy sources to support the AI revolution.
Public Pressure and Energy Costs Add Urgency
The rapid expansion of data centers has also sparked concerns. Households and businesses in some regions are facing higher electricity bills, leading to criticism of large tech firms for increasing demand on local power systems.
Nuclear energy offers a possible solution, as it can deliver large amounts of low-carbon, round-the-clock power without relying on weather conditions like solar or wind.
A Comeback Story for Nuclear Stocks
Before the recent AI boom, the nuclear industry had been struggling. Rising construction costs and reactor shutdowns weighed heavily on the sector. However, the surge in AI investment has changed the outlook.
In 2025, Oklo shares gained more than 200%, reflecting strong investor interest in next-generation nuclear technology. Vistra shares rose 17% in 2025, following a gain of over 200% in 2024. These gains show how quickly sentiment has shifted as nuclear energy finds a new role in powering advanced technology.
What This Means for Investors
Meta’s move does not guarantee immediate profits for nuclear companies, especially those developing unproven technologies. However, it does provide long-term validation that nuclear power could play a central role in the future of AI infrastructure.
For investors, the trend suggests that energy supply not just software innovation is becoming a critical part of the AI investment story.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Stock market investments involve risk, and readers should conduct their own research or consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.
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