Google is looking into nuclear power as a clean energy source for its data centers. The company has joined a study with Holtec International to explore the use of small modular reactors (SMRs). These compact nuclear units could help meet the growing electricity needs of artificial intelligence systems and cloud computing.
(Google’s Holtec Small Modular Reactor Study Explores Nuclear for AI.)
The study will assess how SMRs might support Google’s goal of running on carbon-free energy 24 hours a day by 2030. Current renewable sources like wind and solar are not always available. Nuclear power offers steady, around-the-clock output without greenhouse gas emissions.
Holtec designs and builds advanced nuclear technology. Its SMRs are smaller than traditional reactors and can be made in factories before being shipped to sites. This approach may lower costs and speed up construction. Google sees this as a possible way to power its operations reliably while cutting its environmental impact.
The tech giant already uses large amounts of electricity to run servers that handle search requests, YouTube videos, and AI models. As AI demand grows, so does the need for more energy. Google wants to find solutions that are both sustainable and scalable.
This partnership marks one of the first times a major tech company has seriously considered nuclear power for its data infrastructure. The study will look at technical feasibility, safety, regulatory requirements, and cost. It will also examine how quickly such projects could move from planning to operation.
(Google’s Holtec Small Modular Reactor Study Explores Nuclear for AI.)
Google says it remains committed to exploring all viable clean energy options. The company continues to invest in wind, solar, geothermal, and battery storage. Now, nuclear energy is part of that mix. The findings from the Holtec collaboration will help shape future decisions about where and how Google powers its digital services.