From power source to waste burden: legal implications of using SMRs for AI infrastructure

As artificial intelligence (AI) compute scales, energy security has emerged as a key constraint. The UK’s AI Growth Zones aim to address this by integrating Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a primary power source. However, this strategy faces a structural paradox: while SMRs are being fast-tracked through streamlined licensing, planning, and environmental law, the UK lacks a long-term solution for nuclear waste disposal. This paper examines the regulatory barriers to SMR deployment, the unresolved risks of AI-powered nuclear infrastructure, and the governance challenges posed by nuclear waste and AI energy demand. It argues that unless nuclear policy, AI expansion, and waste governance are treated as interdependent, the UK risks undermining its AI supercomputing strategy. By analysing UK energy law, SMR licensing, and AI compute governance, the paper contributes to current debates on the trade-offs between AI energy security, nuclear governance, and long-term waste sustainability.