Google has taken a bold step by signing its first deal to purchase nuclear power from small modular reactors (SMRs) to fuel its growing AI systems. The tech giant plans to power its data centres with nuclear energy by 2030, as the rising demand for AI drives an urgent need for more sustainable energy sources. Google isn’t alone in this nuclear pursuit; Amazon and Microsoft are also exploring similar strategies.

Highlights:

• Google’s Nuclear Power Deal: Google has partnered with Kairos Power to purchase energy from SMRs, planning to bring the first reactor online by 2030.
• AI’s Growing Energy Demands: AI-related energy consumption is expected to increase by 45% annually in the coming years, pushing tech giants towards nuclear solutions.
• Other Tech Giants Follow Suit: Amazon has already acquired a nuclear-powered data centre, and Microsoft has plans to revive a reactor at Three Mile Island.
• Why Nuclear?: Nuclear power offers a consistent energy source, unlike renewable energy which depends on sunlight and wind. It’s seen as a solution to power-hungry AI workloads.
• Challenges of SMRs: SMRs promise clean energy, but practical concerns remain, such as nuclear waste disposal, safety, and regulatory hurdles. Critics caution that the full benefits of SMRs are still unproven.
• Potential for Co-Development: Google’s partnership with Kairos could allow the two companies to co-develop solutions, potentially bundling SMRs with Google’s data centres in the future.

Google’s decision to embrace nuclear power is both futuristic and pragmatic, as it seeks to power its rapidly growing AI infrastructure. Nuclear energy, particularly in the form of SMRs, offers a consistent, high-output energy source that’s necessary for meeting the surging power demands driven by cloud computing and AI. Other tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft are also recognising the need for stable, sustainable energy solutions, marking a significant shift towards nuclear in the tech world.

However, while the prospect of nuclear power sounds like a game-changer, it’s not without its challenges. The theoretical benefits of SMRs need to be backed by practical solutions, particularly around nuclear waste management and safety. The regulatory landscape remains a significant hurdle as well, especially in regions where building new nuclear facilities faces stringent opposition. The long road to making SMRs a widespread reality will require substantial investment, innovation, and careful oversight.

Recommendations: To avoid the pitfalls of scaling nuclear power, tech companies should work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure proper governance, prioritise transparency around nuclear safety measures, and invest in ongoing research to address nuclear waste disposal issues. Additionally, exploring hybrid energy solutions—combining nuclear with renewables—could offer a balanced approach to energy security. By taking a cautious but forward-thinking approach, businesses can help nuclear energy realise its full potential without compromising on safety or environmental responsibility.

Source and further reading.

Thomas, P. A. (2024, October 15). Google bets on nuclear power to drive AI expansion. Network World. https://www.networkworld.com/article/3564290/google-bets-on-nuclear-power-to-drive-ai-expansion.html/amp