VIENNA, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- The first International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Nuclear Energy commenced here on Wednesday, focusing on how nuclear energy can help meet the surging electricity demand of AI data centers, and how AI can support nuclear technology development.
"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 (IAEA), at the opening ceremony.
He said nuclear energy is a source capable of low-carbon generation, round-the-clock reliability, high power density, grid stability and scalability.
According to the International Energy Agency, data centers accounted for 1.5 percent of worldwide electricity demand in 2024, and the figure could double by 2030.
AI offers powerful tools to optimize reactor performance, streamline construction and enhance operational efficiency -- enabling nuclear energy to reach its full potential while maintaining the highest standards of safety, security and safeguards, it noted.
Liu Jing, vice chairman of China Atomic Energy Authority, said in a keynote speech that China attaches great importance to global AI governance and development cooperation. The country is promoting the extensive and in-depth integration of AI with the entire nuclear industry chain, and is willing to work with the IAEA and all parties to jointly promote the coordinated development of AI and nuclear energy.
The two-day event, held at the IAEA headquarters, has brought together more than 500 senior representatives from governments, international organizations, the nuclear industry and major tech firms. ■
