Events
Jenny Speck to Speak at Lockton U.S. Energy Risk Summit
Partner Jenny Speck will speak at Lockton’s U.S. Energy Risk Summit on November 12, 2026, in Houston, Texas. The summit …
November 12, 2026
November 12, 2026 • 1-minute read
This article published by New Civil Engineer and authored by Chris Taufatofua, Scott Stiegler, Lauren von Hirschfeld, and Iona Gilby explores the surge in demand for data centre capacity across Europe, driven by the rise of generative AI.
This growth is placing immense strain on electricity grids, with data centres already consuming up to 20% of Ireland’s electricity—a figure expected to hit 30% by 2028. In response, nuclear energy, particularly in the form of small modular reactors (SMRs), is being considered as a low-carbon, reliable solution. While nuclear offers steady power with minimal emissions, the authors caution that its reliance on imported uranium—mainly from Kazakhstan, Niger, and Russia—poses challenges to energy independence and security. The authors argue that although nuclear may not be the self-sufficient energy source it appears to be, robust international partnerships could help address these vulnerabilities and support its integration into future energy strategies.
Read the full article on New Civil Engineer here.
This information is provided by Vinson & Elkins LLP for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal advice.
