Google to power it’s AI technologies with Small Modular Reactors Energy

Google has signed the world’s first corporate agreement to buy power from multiple small modular reactors (SMRs) to meet electricity demand for artificial intelligence.

Google said: “The grid needs new electricity sources to support AI technologies that are powering major scientific advances, improving services for businesses and customers, and driving national competitiveness and economic growth.

Key Points

• In historic agreement Google has agreed to purchase 500 megawatts of power from small modular reactor (SMR) developer Kairos Power.
• SMRs are considered a promising solution for decarbonizing heavy industrial operations while providing a stable power source. These reactors are factory-made and assembled on-site.
• Google aims to bring Kairos’ first small modular reactor online by 2030, with additional deployments planned through 2035.
• Michael Terrell, senior director for energy and climate at Google, stated: “This agreement helps accelerate a new technology to meet energy needs cleanly and reliably, and unlock the full potential of AI for everyone.”
• He added: “Nuclear solutions offer a clean, round-the-clock power source that can help us reliably meet electricity demands with carbon-free energy every hour of every day.”

Background

This latest acquisition follows Microsoft’s agreement last month to buy at least 20 years of energy generated by a power plant in Three Mile Island, Pennsylvania.

In March, Amazon struck a deal to acquire a 960MW nuclear-powered data center from Talen Energy, also in Pennsylvania, for $650 million (£498 million).

The Three Mile Island plant, which experienced the worst nuclear accident in America’s history in 1979, will be reopened in 2028 as part of the deal.

In a statement to the media, Michael Terrell said, “We feel like nuclear energy can play an important role in helping to meet our demand … cleanly in a way that’s more around the clock.”

Kairos CEO and co-founder Mike Laufer commented: “We’re confident that this novel approach is going to improve the prospects of our projects being delivered on cost and on schedule.””

This version maintains the original content while improving clarity and correcting minor grammatical issues.

“SMRs: Potential Power Solutions for AI’s Growing Energy Demands”

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are an emerging nuclear technology that could play a role in meeting increased electricity demand, including for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Here’s a concise overview of their potential significance:

Scalability: SMRs can be built in modules, allowing for easier scaling to match growing energy needs, including those of AI data centers.

Flexibility: They can be deployed in areas where large reactors are not feasible, potentially providing power closer to AI facilities.

Low carbon emissions: Like traditional nuclear power, SMRs produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation, aligning with sustainability goals.

Baseload power: SMRs can provide consistent, reliable power, which is crucial for AI operations that require continuous uptime.

Reduced construction time and costs: Compared to traditional nuclear plants, SMRs may be faster and cheaper to build, potentially accelerating deployment.

Enhanced safety features: Many SMR designs incorporate passive safety systems, which could reduce operational risks.

Load following capabilities: Some SMR designs may be better suited to adjust output to match varying demand, complementing renewable energy sources.

While SMRs show promise, it’s important to note that they are still an emerging technology.

Their widespread adoption and impact on meeting AI energy demands remain to be seen.

Factors such as regulatory approval, public acceptance, and economic competitiveness will influence their role in future energy landscapes.

News Gist

Google Inks Deal for 500MW of Nuclear Power from SMRs.

The first reactor is expected online by 2030, with more to follow through 2035.

This move, similar to recent nuclear power deals by Microsoft and Amazon, aims to meet growing energy demands for AI operations with clean, reliable power.

Google sees nuclear as key to round-the-clock carbon-free energy.