Google has partnered with Kairos Power to use nuclear energy for powering its data centers.
Google signed a deal with Kairos Power to develop and use small modular reactors (SMRs). SMRs are a type of nuclear reactor that are smaller and can be built in factories and then assembled on-site. This makes them quicker and cheaper to build compared to traditional large reactors.
Nuclear energy is a clean and reliable source of power. Googleโs data centers need a lot of energy. By using nuclear power, Google can ensure these centers have a steady and clean energy supply.
The agreement aims to generate up to 500 megawatts (MW) of power by 2035, notes a Kairos press release. Unlike solar and wind energy, which depend on weather conditions, nuclear energy can provide power all the time. This reliability is crucial for data centers that need constant power.
This partnership is the first of its kind, and it could pave the way for more companies to use nuclear energy. If successful, it could lead to wider adoption of SMRs, making clean energy more accessible and affordable.
The intersection of nuclear energy and AI
Google admits that this move is necessary to meet the energy demands of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
"The grid needs new electricity sources to support AI technologies," emphasizes Michael Terrell, senior Director for energy and climate at Google. "This agreement helps accelerate a new technology to meet energy needs cleanly and reliably, and unlock the full potential of AI for everyone."
Other major tech companies are also exploring the use of nuclear energy to power their AI data centers. Recently, Microsoft signed an agreement with the Three Mile Island nuclear station, now renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center, to power AI data centers and cloud services. Amazon also purchased a nuclear-powered data center in Pennsylvania. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang indicated that nuclear power is a viable option for AI energy needs, emphasizing the necessity of diverse energy sources for long-term sustainability.
The world needs nuclear energy, which is less exhaustible and cleaner than current energy sources. The surge of AI is providing much needed incentives.
