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The titans who electrified America are back in a big way. From the legendary "War of Currents" where George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla battled Thomas Edison's DC power system, to today's nuclear renaissance, Westinghouse Electric Company has remained at the beating heart of energy innovation for over 138 years.

This episode takes you on a fascinating journey through Westinghouse's storied history and current technological breakthroughs. We unpack how Tesla, after leaving Edison over a promised but unpaid bonus, partnered with Westinghouse to develop the AC power system that would ultimately power the world. Their crowning achievement came in 1895 at Niagara Falls, where they built the first large-scale AC hydroelectric station, decisively ending the AC versus DC debate.

Fast forward to today, and Westinghouse's footprint in global energy is staggering. Nearly half of the world's 430 nuclear reactors run on their technology. Their flagship AP1000 reactor operates successfully in Georgia and China, while their compact EVinci "nuclear battery" aims to power remote communities by 2026. Most exciting is their revolutionary long-duration energy storage system that can provide 11+ hours of backup power—a game-changer for grid stability and renewable integration.

Despite navigating bankruptcy in 2017, Westinghouse has emerged stronger than ever, doubling profitability under new leadership and securing major contracts worldwide as countries seek to reduce dependence on Russian gas. From Poland to Bulgaria, China to Canada, Westinghouse is spearheading what many are calling the nuclear renaissance.

What's your take on nuclear power's role in our clean energy future? Share your thoughts and join us next episode as we continue exploring the frontiers of energy innovation.

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The energy landscape is experiencing cataclysmic shifts driven by unprecedented AI and data center power demands, with tech giants and legislators becoming key shapers of our energy future.

• Meta signs 20-year nuclear power agreement with Constellation Energy for 1.1 gigawatts beginning in 2027
• Tech giants including Amazon, Google and Meta have collectively pledged to triple nuclear energy worldwide by 2050
• Utah positions itself as a leader in nuclear development with the announcement of the nation's second uranium enrichment facility at Camp Williams
• Modern nuclear facilities now considered so safe they can be placed near residential areas with zero US fatalities in the industry's history
• Texas deploying innovative molten salt reactor technology to purify toxic wastewater at unprecedented scale
• OpenAI signs $30 billion annual cloud contract with Oracle, leasing 4.5 gigawatts of data center power
• US utilities planning to invest over $212 billion in 2025 alone for data center power infrastructure
• AI-driven data center power needs projected to grow 30-fold by 2035 according to Deloitte forecasts
• Global energy investment set to hit record $3.3 trillion in 2025
• Utilities facing increasing pressure from legislators to modernize grids and accelerate new power generation approvals

Join us next episode as we revisit our predictions for 2025 and see how many have already come to pass in this rapidly evolving energy landscape.

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Architecture enthusiasts, prepare to be inspired as Shawn Reichart of Gensler takes us through his captivating journey into the world of design and construction. From childhood moments with Legos to transformative experiences at Temple University, Sean's story is a testament to the power of early influences and educational choices in shaping a fulfilling career. His reflections offer a unique perspective on how a small-town upbringing can lead to big-city dreams and groundbreaking architectural achievements.

The episode also tackles pressing issues in the architecture and construction sectors. We delve into the waning interest in skilled trades among younger generations and the ripple effects on construction costs. Yet, architecture's allure remains strong, offering a compelling blend of art and engineering to a diverse pool of talent. We explore the post-9/11 shift towards government and security projects, highlighting the gratification of contributing to national welfare and the evolving role of data centers in sustaining economic and technological leadership.

Innovation takes center stage as Sean shares insights into pioneering projects in data center development, with a focus on sustainable practices like geothermal energy and waterless designs. We navigate the challenges of community engagement, strategic site planning, and the transformative potential of AI in architectural processes. As we look to the future, Sean emphasizes the importance of strategic innovation and planning to address engineering challenges and drive growth, ensuring that technological advancements offer tangible benefits to both industry and society.