Sam Altman stepped down as chairman of nuclear technology company Oklo Inc. The move was announced Tuesday. Oklo develops advanced nuclear reactors designed for reliable power.
Altman previously helped bring Oklo public. This happened through a merger with his SPAC in May 2024.
The company said Altman's departure provides Oklo more flexibility. This includes pursuing partnerships with AI companies. OpenAI or other large technology firms could become partners.
Data center operators increasingly seek stable, emissions-free power. Oklo aims to meet this rising demand. Oklo signed an agreement to provide up to 12 gigawatts of power for one data center company in December.
Oklo's Aurora reactors have small, simple designs. They range from 75 to over 100 megawatts. The company plans to build and run these plants. They will sell power directly under long contracts.
Oklo intends to launch its first reactor at Idaho National Laboratory before 2030.
Oklo CEO Jake DeWitte will now serve as chairman.
Oklo shares dropped 12% in after-hours trading following the news Tuesday.
Altman commented on his decision to step down.
"As Oklo explores strategic partnerships to deploy clean energy at scale, particularly to enable the deployment of AI, I believe now is the right time for me to step down," Altman said.
