Google has made a significant advancement in its commitment to clean energy by signing the world's first corporate agreement to purchase nuclear energy from multiple small modular reactors (SMRs) developed by Kairos Power. This groundbreaking deal aims to bring Kairos Power's first SMR online by 2030, with additional reactors expected to be deployed by 2035. The agreement will contribute up to 500 MW of new, 24/7 carbon-free power to U.S. electricity grids, enhancing access to clean and affordable nuclear energy for various communities.
This agreement is crucial for two primary reasons
- Supporting AI Technologies: As the demand for electricity surges due to advancements in artificial intelligence, new electricity sources are essential. This partnership will help accelerate the deployment of clean technologies that can reliably meet energy needs and maximize the potential of AI across industries.
- Reliable Clean Energy: Nuclear power offers a consistent, carbon-free power source capable of meeting electricity demands continuously. Collaborating closely with local communities will expedite the decarbonization of electricity grids globally.
Google's initiative aligns with its broader strategy to develop a diverse portfolio of advanced clean electricity technologies for its global data centers and offices. This approach complements its existing use of renewable sources like solar and wind, supporting the company's ambitious goals for 24/7 carbon-free energy and achieving net-zero emissions.
The next generation of advanced nuclear reactors presents a promising avenue for accelerated deployment due to their simplified design and enhanced safety features. Their smaller, modular structure can significantly reduce construction timelines and allow for deployment in various locations, making project delivery more predictable.
Investing in advanced nuclear technology is expected to yield substantial economic benefits as well. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nuclear power generates the highest economic impact among energy sources and creates high-paying, long-term jobs. The agency estimates that achieving 200 GW of advanced nuclear capacity in the U.S. by 2050 will require an additional 375,000 workers.
Kairos Power's technology utilizes a molten-salt cooling system combined with ceramic, pebble-type fuel to efficiently generate power while maintaining low pressure for safety and cost-effectiveness. The company has already achieved several technical milestones toward deploying its first reactor and recently broke ground on its Hermes non-powered demonstration reactor in Tennessee, marking a significant step forward in the U.S.'s advanced nuclear landscape.
By procuring electricity from multiple reactors—an approach referred to as an "orderbook" - Google aims to facilitate rapid reactor deployments necessary for reducing costs and expediting market entry for Kairos Power's technology. This strategy builds on previous initiatives, including a pioneering enhanced geothermal project completed last year.
As Google continues to scale advanced technologies for broader community benefit, it remains committed to enhancing clean energy solutions that align with its sustainability goals and support global decarbonization efforts.
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