Nuclear-powered hydrogen explored to fuel global clean energy shift

The article discusses First Hydrogen Corp.'s new initiative to design small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in collaboration with the University of Alberta, aiming to produce low-carbon “green” hydrogen at scale. This partnership focuses on optimizing SMR technology—compact, factory-built nuclear reactors producing up to a few hundred megawatts—to generate the heat and electricity needed for hydrogen production without carbon emissions. The project targets cost-competitive hydrogen generation to support growing energy demands, particularly from artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, which Goldman Sachs predicts will increase power consumption by 160% by 2030 and could account for up to 4% of global electricity use. SMRs offer advantages such as modular construction, reduced accident risks, longer fuel cycles, and suitability for locations where large reactors are impractical. Canada, with its 60-year nuclear safety record and government backing, is positioning SMRs as a key element of future energy independence. Several provinces are advancing SMR projects, and Prime Minister Mark Car