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Google Partners with Kairos Power to Harness Nuclear Energy for AI Operations
In a groundbreaking move, Google is embracing nuclear energy to fuel its artificial intelligence initiatives. On Monday, the tech giant announced a collaboration with the startup Kairos Power to construct seven small modular nuclear reactors across the United States. This partnership aims to generate an additional 500 megawatts of power from these innovative reactors by the end of this decade, with the first reactor projected to be operational by 2030 and subsequent units expected by 2035.
The Significance of Small Modular Reactors
This agreement marks a historic milestone as it represents the first corporate contract for purchasing electricity generated from small modular reactors (SMRs). Unlike traditional large-scale reactors, SMRs are designed to be more compact and efficient. Their components are manufactured in factories rather than assembled on-site, which can significantly reduce construction expenses compared to conventional plants.
Regulatory Approvals and Development Progress
Kairos Power will require approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for design and construction permits related to this project. The startup has already secured permission for a demonstration reactor in Tennessee, which is slated to go online in 2027. Additionally, they are currently constructing test units without nuclear fuel at their development facility located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where they evaluate various components and systems along with their supply chain logistics.
Financial Aspects of the Agreement
The financial specifics surrounding this partnership have not been disclosed; however, Google emphasizes that this arrangement is structured strategically to minimize costs while expediting energy availability.
A Vision for Future Energy Solutions
“By sourcing electricity from multiple reactors—what experts refer to as an ‘orderbook’—we aim to accelerate deployment rates necessary for reducing costs and advancing Kairos Power’s technology into broader markets,” stated Michael Terrell, Google’s senior director of energy and climate initiatives in a blog post. “This strategy plays a crucial role in our mission to extend advanced technological benefits across diverse communities while building upon our previous sustainability efforts.”
The Growing Intersection of AI Demand and Nuclear Energy
The surge in artificial intelligence applications—and consequently its substantial demand on data center power—has prompted several collaborations between major technology firms and nuclear energy providers. For instance, Microsoft recently established an agreement with Constellation Energy aimed at revitalizing operations at Pennsylvania’s Three Mile Island plant. Similarly, Amazon made headlines earlier this year when it acquired a nuclear-powered data center from Talen Energy.
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