OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has highlighted the potential of nuclear power as a crucial energy source to support the rapidly expanding demands of artificial intelligence. While acknowledging that comparatively high energy costs in Germany present a “challenge for AI” Altman expressed confidence in overcoming these hurdles.
Speaking in an interview with “Welt” Altman advocated for increased investment in advanced nuclear fission technologies, stating he believes they represent “one of the most promising energy sources”. He emphasized the global importance of pursuing this avenue.
OpenAI views Germany as strategically vital, describing it as the company’s largest market in Europe and its fifth-largest globally. Altman noted the widespread adoption of ChatGPT amongst young Germans, indicating significant current utilization and benefit from AI technologies.
Following meetings with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and CEOs of major German companies, Altman expressed considerable optimism regarding the speed of AI integration within the country. He conveyed that German businesses are actively planning and implementing comprehensive AI strategies, anticipating substantial value creation. A similar commitment to AI ambitions was observed within the German government. Altman observed an acceleration in AI adoption in Germany, noting a fivefold increase in the past twelve months, further fueling his positive outlook.