How Radiant and Heron Are Rethinking Power Generation and Delivery

This episode of The a16z Show explores a pivotal moment in U.S. energy infrastructure, where the traditional centralized grid model is being challenged by two innovative companies—Radiant and Heron—leading a shift toward decentralized, modular, and software-driven power systems. Doug Bernauer of Radiant and Drew Beglino of Heron, both former SpaceX and Tesla veterans, discuss how their companies are reimagining energy delivery: Radiant is developing factory-built, trailer-sized microreactors that can be deployed rapidly and safely, while Heron is pioneering solid-state power electronics to replace aging transformers with compact, efficient, and intelligent DC-to-AC converters. The conversation highlights a growing energy demand driven by AI, data centers, and industrial electrification, which is outpacing decades of efficiency gains. The core insight is that while new power generation is no longer the bottleneck, the grid’s delivery infrastructure is critically strained, and innovation must now focus on the 'edge'—where power is consumed. The hosts and guests argue that by combining modular nuclear reactors with next-generation power electronics, the U.S. can build a more resilient, scalable, and sustainable energy future—transforming the grid from a rigid, top-down system into a dynamic, software-defined network that can grow organically from the ground up. Key takeaways include: 1) The grid is not broken—it’s outdated, and the real challenge is delivery, not generation; 2) Modular, factory-built microreactors and solid-state power electronics can enable rapid, safe, and scalable power deployment; 3) Data centers, while demanding, can actually improve grid efficiency by increasing utilization and enabling grid stabilization; 4) The future of energy lies in decentralized, software-driven, and resilient systems; 5) Nuclear power is no longer a fringe option but a viable, scalable, and safe solution when designed as a product; 6) Supply chain resilience for critical components like ferrite and silicon carbide is essential and achievable through nearshoring; 7) The U.S. must reinvest in its energy innovation ecosystem to avoid hollowing out its technical expertise; 8) A new energy paradigm is emerging—one where power is no longer a passive utility but an active, intelligent, and mobile resource. The episode concludes with a vision of 'Atoms for Prosperity,' where clean, abundant energy becomes the foundation for economic growth, sustainability, and even space colonization.