Google Boosts Data Centre Power with Nuclear Energy

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Nuclear-powered data centres are expected to become an even greater reality
Exploring Google's venture into nuclear energy for sustainable power in its data centres, aiming for a clean energy future.

Google is sourcing nuclear energy from small modular reactors (SMR) to promote the US clean energy transition.

With a pioneering corporate deal with Kairos Power, Google aims to operate its first nuclear reactor by 2030 by buying energy from numerous SMRs developed by Kairos Power.

Already pivotal in using technology to advance clean energy, Google now addresses recent spikes in its emissions linked to investments in AI data centre expansion. They hope nuclear energy will curb emissions, ensuring US grids have continuous, carbon-free, and cost-effective power

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"The grid needs new electricity sources to support AI technologies," notes Google's Michael Terrell, the Senior Director for Energy and Climate. "This agreement helps accelerate a new technology to meet energy needs cleanly and reliably, and unlock the full potential of AI for everyone."

A New Phase in Data Centre Evolution

Kairos Power's innovative design combines molten-salt cooling with ceramic pebble fuel, creating an efficient, safe and low-cost nuclear reactor.

Google highlights Kairos Power's strategy to refine its technology through extensive hardware tests before launching its commercial plant. This approach aims to fast-track reactor deployment through vital learning and efficiency gains.

Kairos Power (Image: Google)

Focused on smaller reactors using molten fluoride salt coolants, Kairos Power contributes to the zero-carbon power solution which supports a reliable electricity supply 24/7. Although these reactors produce some radioactive waste and consume significant energy, they are increasingly seen as essential for global tech leaders trying to decrease emissions.

As reliance on SMRs grows, we could see a surge in nuclear-powered data centres within the decade, especially as the sector's energy consumption is set to double soon. The US particularly envisages a threefold increase in nuclear capacity by 2050, stepping away from fossil fuels.

Google's Commitment to Nuclear Power

Google's pact with Kairos Power marks a significant stride towards sourcing fresh electricity for AI enhancements. Such innovations are pivotal for scientific progress and improving consumer and business services, fostering broader economic growth and competitiveness.

Their strong collaboration aims to satisfy clean energy requirements while boosting AI capabilities. Advanced nuclear reactors, smaller and modular, could simplify deployment and shorten construction timelines, ensuring more predictable project outcomes.

Both players look forward to this partnership bolstering low-carbon solutions for powering data centres amid heightening electricity demands.

"This agreement is part of our efforts to develop and commercialise a broad portfolio of advanced clean electricity technologies to power our global data centres and offices. This approach will complement our use of variable renewables, like solar and wind, and help us reach our ambitious 24/7 carbon-free energy and net-zero goals."

Michael Terrell, Senior Director for Energy and Climate at Google
Michael Terrell, Senior Director for Energy and Climate at Google

Impacts on Local US Communities

Google sees its investment in advanced nuclear technology as a catalyst for economic prosperity across US localities. The US Department of Energy aligns with this view, recognising nuclear power's potential to generate substantial economic impacts and create quality, long-term employment opportunities.

The department suggests that reaching 200 gigawatts of advanced nuclear capacity by 2050 would necessitate approximately 375,000 new jobs.

Sourced from: US Department of Energy website

Michael Terrell shares, "By procuring electricity from multiple reactors, we will help accelerate the repeated reactor deployments that are needed to lower costs and bring Kairos Power's technology to market more quickly." He adds, "This is an important part of our approach to scale the benefits of advanced technologies to more people and communities, and builds on our previous efforts."

"We'll continue working to accelerate a diverse portfolio of advanced clean electricity technologies and bring new 24/7 clean, affordable energy onto every grid where we operate."


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