The groundbreaking deal marks a significant step towards clean energy technology, with miniature reactors expected to be operational by 2030
In a landmark move for both the tech and energy sectors, Google has secured the world’s first agreement to power its artificial intelligence (AI) operations using miniature nuclear reactors developed by the California-based startup Kairos Power. This innovative partnership aims to bring clean nuclear energy technology to the forefront, with plans to make it operational by 2030.
In a recent blog post, Google highlighted the transformative potential of next-generation advanced nuclear reactors. The company emphasized that these reactors feature simplified designs and enhanced safety measures, which can significantly expedite deployment timelines. “The smaller size and modular design can reduce construction timelines, allow deployment in more places, and make the final project delivery more predictable,” Google noted.
At the heart of Kairos Power’s technology is a ceramic fuel pebble, roughly the size of a golf ball, which, when combined with a molten-salt cooling system, generates energy through a steam turbine. Remarkably, each of these pebbles is reported to produce the equivalent energy of four tons of coal, all while emitting zero carbon emissions. This clean energy solution aligns seamlessly with Google’s commitment to producing all its electricity from renewable sources in the near future.
As reliance on energy-intensive AI systems surges, particularly in massive data centres, the power consumption of US data centres is projected to triple by 2030. Google’s commitment to clean energy is vital in addressing this impending demand, ensuring sustainable operations as it continues to expand its AI capabilities.
Kairos Power is set to construct a demonstration reactor in Tennessee, although the current agreement with Google entails a relatively modest capacity of 500 megawatts. This is a small fraction of the estimated 47 gigawatts of new generation capacity required globally by the end of the decade. Nevertheless, both companies believe that having a partnership in place prior to commercial availability will accelerate the development of this cutting-edge technology.
Jeff Olson, Kairos Power’s vice president of business development and finance, commented on the significance of this early commitment from Google. He stated, “Having an agreement for multiple deployments is important to accelerate the commercialization of advanced nuclear energy by demonstrating the technical and market viability of a solution critical to decarbonizing power grids while delivering much-needed energy generation and capacity.”
This partnership represents a bold step towards a future where clean energy sources play a central role in powering the next generation of technology, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to energy consumption.
