Written By JR Robinson, CEO of JustMy

Let's be honest—Memphis isn't usually the first to jump on new technology. In fact, we're often several steps behind, watching other cities reap the rewards before we even get started. But right now, we have a rare chance to flip the script. As the world's appetite for energy explodes—driven by AI, data centers, and the digital economy—Memphis can finally be out front, not playing catch-up. The key? Next-level nuclear technology.

What Is Next-Level Nuclear Technology?

Next-level nuclear refers to advanced reactors that go beyond traditional nuclear plants. The most promising types include:

• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Factory-built, compact nuclear reactors designed for flexibility, safety, and faster deployment. SMRs can be placed where large plants can't, and their modular design allows for incremental capacity increases.
• Nuclear Fusion: The "holy grail" of energy, fusion mimics the sun's process—fusing atoms to release vast energy without long-lived radioactive waste. While commercial fusion is still a decade or more away, breakthroughs are accelerating.
• Advanced Fuels and Waste Management: New fuels and recycling methods reduce waste, increase efficiency, and enhance safety.

These technologies are engineered with passive safety features, requiring less human intervention and dramatically reducing the risk of accidents.

Why Does Memphis Need This?

Memphis is already feeling the strain. The explosive growth of data centers—like Elon Musk's xAI "Colossus"—is pushing our power grid to its limits. The latest expansion of xAI's Memphis facility will require energy equivalent to a full nuclear or gas plant—about a third of the city's current peak demand. Our utility, MLGW, is already stretched, and relying on fossil gas turbines means more pollution and higher costs for Memphians.

But what if we could offer data centers—and our community—clean, round-the-clock power at scale? That's the promise of next-level nuclear.

For a city that has often found itself several steps behind in adopting new technologies, this is a moment to break the cycle. By embracing advanced nuclear power now, Memphis can position itself as a leader rather than a follower in the energy revolution.

Is It Safe?

Modern nuclear technology is among the safest forms of energy production. Decades of experience, strict U.S. regulation, and new reactor designs have made major accidents extraordinarily rare. Advanced reactors:

• Use inherent cooling and passive safety systems, reducing the risk of meltdown.
• Are overseen by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, a global gold standard.
• Have prevented millions of deaths by displacing air-polluting fossil fuels.

Fusion, if realized, would be even safer—no chain reactions, no long-lived waste.

Is It Harmful for Our Community?

Every energy source has risks, but nuclear's are often misunderstood. The main concerns are:

• Radioactive Waste: Advanced reactors produce far less waste, and new methods can recycle or safely store it for the long term.
• Proliferation: New designs make it harder to divert materials for weapons.
• Cost and Construction: Upfront costs are high, but modular construction and standardized designs are driving costs down.

Compare this to fossil fuels, which pollute our air, worsen asthma rates, and contribute to climate change—especially in vulnerable neighborhoods like South Memphis.

The Pros and Cons for Memphis

For Memphis, the benefits far outweigh the challenges—especially if we act decisively and thoughtfully.

How Could This Impact Memphis' Future?

Memphis could become a national leader in clean energy, attracting the next wave of data centers, tech companies, and advanced manufacturing. Cities that can guarantee reliable, low-carbon power will win the race for high-wage jobs and investment.

Imagine: Memphis as the "Silicon Delta"—a magnet for innovation, powered by the safest, cleanest nuclear technology on the planet.

Breaking free from our usual lag in technology adoption, Memphis has the chance to lead a new industrial revolution fueled by next-level nuclear power.

What Should City and County Leaders Do?

Now is the time for bold moves:

• Champion Advanced Nuclear: Work with TVA, MLGW, and private partners to pilot SMRs or advanced reactors in Memphis.
• Streamline Permitting: Create "emerging technology" zones and fast-track approvals for clean energy projects.
• Invest in Workforce: Partner with local colleges and unions to train Memphians for high-paying nuclear and data center jobs.
• Educate the Public: Launch a fact-based campaign to address fears and misinformation, emphasizing nuclear's safety and benefits.
• Leverage Federal and State Incentives: Pursue grants and incentives for clean energy infrastructure.

If Memphis continues to wait and watch, we risk falling further behind. But if we act now, we can rewrite our story.

Facing the Misinformation Divide

Public opinion on nuclear is divided, often due to outdated fears or misinformation. It's up to us—business leaders, policymakers, and citizens—to lead with facts, transparency, and vision.

Conclusion: Memphis Leading the Future

The world is changing fast. Cities that embrace next-level nuclear will power the AI revolution, protect public health, and drive economic growth. Memphis can lead, or Memphis can follow.

The choice is ours.

Let's make Memphis the city that powers the future.