News Summary

Nuclear startup X-energy has initiated its investor roadshow to raise up to $800 million through an IPO, with shares priced between $16 and $19. This IPO is backed by Amazon, which has previously invested $500 million in X-energy and agreed to purchase up to 5 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2039. This move comes as X-energy seeks to capitalize on increased interest in fission power amid rising electricity demand driven by AI data centers and electrification. The startup’s innovative reactor design, featuring high-temperature, gas-cooled technology using TRISO fuel, aims to be safer than traditional methods. However, X-energy is currently involved in a patent dispute with Standard Nuclear regarding fuel fabrication, complicating its path forward. The company plans to reduce costs through mass manufacturing, although challenges remain in achieving profitability in nuclear power generation.