Google has announced the world’s first corporate agreement to purchase nuclear energy from small modular reactors (SMRs), developed by Kairos Power, to power its artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This move is part of Google’s ongoing effort to accelerate clean energy adoption and meet its ambitious 24/7 carbon-free energy goals.
Nuclear Power for AI
Under the agreement, Kairos Power aims to bring its first SMR online by 2030, with plans to deploy additional reactors through 2035. These reactors will contribute up to 500 MW of continuous, carbon-free power to the U.S. electricity grid, supporting the energy demands of AI and boosting national competitiveness.
Kairos Power will develop, build, and operate the reactors, selling energy and environmental services to Google under Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). The reactors will be located in relevant service areas to supply clean electricity to Google’s data centers.
Michael Terrell, senior director for energy and climate at Google, emphasized the significance of the deal: “This agreement helps accelerate a new technology to meet energy needs cleanly and reliably, unlocking the full potential of AI for everyone.”
Kairos Power’s Reactor Design
Kairos Power’s SMR technology uses molten-salt cooling with ceramic, pebble-type fuel to efficiently generate power through a steam turbine. The passively safe design operates at low pressure, making the reactors more affordable and easier to maintain.
Earlier this year, Kairos Power began construction of its Hermes non-powered demonstration reactor in Tennessee, the first advanced reactor project in the U.S. to receive a construction permit from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
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Clean Energy for Google’s AI
Google views nuclear energy as a reliable, round-the-clock clean power source, crucial for meeting its growing electricity demands while maintaining a carbon-free energy supply every hour of the day. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
