Google opts for atomic power to fuel AI growth

Advantages of utilizing compact modular reactors

The utilization of small-scale modular reactors is expected to have positive outcomes as AI-related power demand is projected to climb by approximately 45% annually in the next three years, mainly driven by cloud computing and AI.

“Over the past 4-5 years, there has been a proactive effort by companies to decrease energy usage or transition to alternative sources,” noted Suseel Menon, Everest Group’s practice director. “Recently, Microsoft abandoned its project to establish underwater data centers. In light of the global emphasis on sustainability, these companies have also explored renewable energy options for their operations. However, these sources, while sustainable, are susceptible to disruptions caused by natural events.”

The substantial energy yield of nuclear reactors is leading large-scale providers to look towards nuclear power to cater to the rising demands of AI operations, revealed Rajiv Ranjan, IDC’s associate research director.

“Nuclear power offers a stable energy supply, unlike renewables, which rely on sun or wind availability,” stated Ranjan. “Although nuclear power is more costly, its fuel efficiency surpasses that of traditional sources.”

Google intends to procure around 500 megawatts of power from six to seven Kairos reactors, with analysts suggesting that this initial commitment may only address a portion of the company’s energy requirements by the 2030s.

“The selection of Kairos Power is significant, as this startup in the SMR sector has yet to roll out its reactors,” observed Hyoun Park, CEO and lead analyst at Amalgam Insights. “This could potentially allow Google to collaborate on solutions over the next six years, with reactor launches anticipated for 2030.”

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AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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