The tech giant has ordered six or seven SMRs from California-based Kairos Power, with the first reactor expected to go online by 2030. The remainder will be fully operational by 2035, providing a low-carbon, round-the-clock power source to meet the skyrocketing energy demands of AI technologies, cloud storage, and data processing.
October 16, 2024
Google has taken a monumental step in addressing the growing energy needs of its AI-powered data centers by signing a world-first deal to purchase power from small modular reactors (SMRs). This strategic move will supply Google with up to 500MW of nuclear power by 2035, making it one of the first major tech companies to use nuclear energy on this scale.
Google's pursuit of nuclear power reflects the tech industry’s need for massive amounts of clean, reliable energy as data centers continue to grow in size and scale. AI-driven technologies, particularly generative AI, have led to a surge in electricity consumption, putting pressure on the grid and renewable sources like wind and solar.
In recent years, Google has been a leading buyer of renewable energy, but the company recognizes that nuclear power offers a solution for providing constant, reliable electricity. Michael Terrell, Google’s senior director for energy and climate, stated that nuclear power is crucial for supporting AI technologies that are driving advancements across industries, improving business services, and contributing to economic growth.
Google’s deal with Kairos Power will complement its existing renewable energy sources, ensuring that AI operations continue smoothly without interruptions due to the intermittency of solar and wind power.
Small modular reactors (SMRs), often referred to as "mini nuclear plants", are seen as the next generation of nuclear technology. Unlike traditional nuclear reactors, SMRs are:
Google's investment in SMRs through Kairos Power signals growing confidence in this technology, as it offers a cost-effective, scalable solution for the tech industry’s energy needs.
Google isn’t alone in recognizing the potential of nuclear power. Other tech companies are also exploring nuclear energy to meet their expanding power demands:
The expansion into nuclear energy highlights the need for reliable, 24/7 power as the tech sector continues to evolve and scale its operations.
While SMRs promise shorter construction times and a more predictable delivery process, they also face challenges. Critics argue that SMRs may still be expensive to build because they lack the economies of scale that larger nuclear plants can achieve. However, proponents believe that the modular design will eventually streamline production and bring down costs, making them a competitive alternative.
This deal is also part of a broader effort by countries like the UK to revive their nuclear industries. Companies such as Rolls-Royce SMR have been tapped by governments to lead reactor development, marking a global push towards smaller, more flexible nuclear options.
Google’s decision to power its AI data centers with nuclear energy reflects a critical shift in how major corporations are planning for the future. As AI technologies drive exponential growth in data processing, the need for reliable, clean energy will only increase. Nuclear energy, particularly through SMRs, offers a viable solution that balances environmental concerns with the need for consistent power.
This move is not only a vote of confidence in Kairos Power and SMR technology but also a signal to the broader tech and energy industries that nuclear energy may play a crucial role in supporting the AI revolution.
As AI technologies continue to advance, the demand for clean, consistent energy will only increase. Small modular nuclear reactors may be the key to unlocking the full potential of AI while meeting the growing need for sustainable energy.
