Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, is in preliminary discussions with the United States regarding joint projects to power data centers using small modular reactors and microreactors. Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, announced these talks on October 16, 2026, during Russian Energy Week.
The proposed projects involve compact nuclear technology designed to provide dedicated, constant power sources for data centers. While a list of potential Russian participants exists, no US partners have been identified, and specific details regarding locations, financing, and timelines remain undisclosed.
Dmitriev acknowledged that current US sanctions and payment restrictions present significant obstacles to these initiatives. Despite these challenges, he noted a potential shift in economic relations, citing a recent agreement between the two nations regarding diesel fuel exports.
Domestically, Rosatom is developing ultra-small reactors in collaboration with MEPhI university, a program launched in June 2026. These units are designed to produce between 5 and 50 MWe and incorporate AI-driven management systems.
Rosatom has been integrating nuclear power with data centers within Russia since 2018. The company has set a strategic goal to capture 15–20% of the global small modular reactor market by 2030.
