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Google signs advanced nuclear clean energy deal with Kairos Power

Google signs advanced nuclear clean energy deal with Kairos Power

Since launching the first enterprise renewable power purchase agreements over a decade ago, Google has played a critical role in accelerating clean energy solutions, including the next generation of advanced clean technologies. Today, we are building on these efforts by signing the world's first corporate agreement to purchase nuclear power from multiple small modular reactors (SMRs) being developed by Kairos Power. The first phase of work aims to bring Kairos Power's first SMR online quickly and safely by 2030, followed by further reactor deployments by 2035. In total, this deal will enable up to 500 MW of new carbon-free electricity to be delivered 24/7 to US power grids and help more communities to benefit from clean and affordable nuclear energy.

This agreement is important for two reasons:

  • The grid needs new sources of power to support AI technologies that drive major scientific advances, improve services for businesses and customers, and drive national competitiveness and economic growth. This agreement helps advance new technology to meet energy needs cleanly and reliably and unlock the full potential of AI for all.
  • Nuclear solutions provide a 24/7 clean energy source that can help us meet electricity needs reliably and hourly with carbon-free energy. Advancing these energy sources in close partnership with supportive local communities will rapidly advance the decarbonization of power grids around the world.

Why we support new advanced nuclear energy

This agreement is part of our efforts to develop and commercialize a broad portfolio of advanced clean power technologies to power our global data centers and offices. This approach will complement our use of variable renewable energy such as solar and wind and help us achieve our ambitious 24/7 carbon-free energy and net zero goals.

The next generation of advanced nuclear reactors offers a new path to accelerating nuclear deployment thanks to their simplified design and robust, inherent safety. The smaller size and modular design can reduce construction time, enable deployment in more locations, and make final project delivery more predictable.

Investments in advanced nuclear technology can also bring direct economic benefits to communities across the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), nuclear energy has the greatest economic impact of any source of electricity generation and creates high-paying, long-term jobs. The agency estimates that the U.S. will reach 200 GW of advanced nuclear capacity by 2050, requiring an additional 375,000 workers.

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