Google's Atomic Ambitions: Nuclear Power for AI Data Havens

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AI Data Centers Drive Nuclear Energy Adoption

Technology giants are embracing nuclear energy to power their massive data centers, which fuel artificial intelligence (AI). The grid needs new electricity sources to support AI technologies, says Google's Michael Terrell. Nuclear power, with its near-zero carbon emissions and 24/7 availability, has become increasingly appealing to the tech industry.

Google's Nuclear Deal

Google has partnered with Kairos Power to utilize small nuclear reactors for its AI data centers. This deal accelerates the commercialization of advanced nuclear energy, says Kairos executive Jeff Olson. Kairos specializes in smaller reactors using molten fluoride salt as a coolant, unlike traditional nuclear plants.

Regulatory Hurdles

Google's plans require approval from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and local agencies. Last year, Kairos Power received the first permit in 50 years to build a new type of nuclear reactor. Construction of a demonstration reactor in Tennessee is underway.

Safety Concerns

Critics argue that nuclear power poses risks and generates long-lasting radioactive waste. Microsoft recently agreed to restart operations at Three Mile Island, the site of the 1979 nuclear accident. Amazon has also invested in a nuclear-powered data center in Pennsylvania.

Growing Energy Demand

Data center energy consumption is projected to double by 2030. These data centers require specialized hardware that generates significant heat, says Goldman Sachs. The US has joined a global effort to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050 to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.