Google has made a groundbreaking move by signing a deal with Kairos Power to develop small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) to power its AI data centres.
This partnership marks a significant step towards utilising nuclear energy as a sustainable solution to meet the increasing energy demands of artificial intelligence technologies.
Key Takeaways
Google orders six to seven small modular nuclear reactors from Kairos Power.
The reactors are expected to provide a total capacity of 500 megawatts by 2030-2035.
This initiative aims to support the growing energy needs of AI and data centres while reducing carbon emissions.
A Landmark Agreement
In a historic agreement, Google has become the first tech company to commission new nuclear power plants, aiming to provide low-carbon electricity for its energy-intensive data centres. The deal involves the construction of six to seven small modular reactors, which are expected to be operational between 2030 and 2035.
Michael Terrell, Google’s senior director of energy and climate, stated that this agreement is a significant milestone in the company’s 15-year journey towards clean energy. He emphasised that nuclear energy could play a crucial role in meeting the company’s energy demands in a clean and reliable manner.
The Role of Small Modular Reactors
Small modular reactors are designed to be safer and more efficient than traditional nuclear plants. They can be constructed in factories and transported to various locations, significantly reducing construction time and costs. Kairos Power’s reactors will use a molten salt cooling system, which promises enhanced safety and efficiency compared to conventional water-cooled reactors.
Meeting Energy Demands
The energy consumption of data centres is projected to double between 2023 and 2028, reaching approximately 857 Terawatt hours (TWh) annually. This surge in demand necessitates new electricity sources, and Google’s partnership with Kairos Power aims to address this challenge by providing up to 500 megawatts of carbon-free power to the US electricity grid.
Industry Implications
Google’s commitment to nuclear energy aligns with a broader trend among tech giants seeking sustainable energy solutions. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon are also exploring nuclear power to meet their energy needs. This shift towards nuclear energy could pave the way for a new era of clean energy solutions in the tech industry.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promising outlook, the timeline for the reactors to become operational by 2030 is considered optimistic. Kairos Power faces significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles and public perception of nuclear energy. While support for nuclear power is growing, concerns about safety and environmental impact remain prevalent.
Conclusion
Google’s partnership with Kairos Power represents a bold step towards integrating nuclear energy into the tech industry’s energy landscape. As the demand for clean and reliable energy sources continues to rise, this initiative could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy consumption in data centres and beyond.
Sources
Google orders small modular nuclear reactors for its data centres, Financial Times.
Google set to power its AI data centres with mini nuclear reactors | Euronews, Euronews.com.
Google signs deal to use small modular nuclear reactors to power AI data centers, The Hill.
Google signs deal to use small nuclear reactors to… | Canary Media, Canary Media.
