Google signed a deal to power data centers with nuclear micro-reactors from Kairos — but the 2030 timeline is very optimistic

Core Insights - Google has signed a deal with nuclear startup Kairos Power to build seven small reactors, aiming to add approximately 500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity to its data centers by the end of the decade [1] - This move aligns Google with other tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, who are also investing in nuclear power to meet their increasing energy demands [2] Group 1: Company Initiatives - The new power plants are expected to provide carbon-free electricity at a time of rising energy demand for data centers and AI [1] - Google’s agreement with Kairos Power may involve either a direct connection to its sites or feeding into the grid, allowing Google to claim the carbon-free power [1] Group 2: Industry Trends - Kairos Power is part of a new wave of nuclear startups focusing on small-modular reactors (SMR) to reduce costs and construction time compared to traditional large nuclear plants [3][4] - The company’s innovative approach includes using molten salts for cooling instead of water, which has received regulatory approval for a 35-megawatt demonstration reactor [4] Group 3: Market Challenges - Despite regulatory approval, no commercial small-modular reactors have been commissioned yet, leaving the economic viability largely untested [4] - Public opinion on nuclear power remains divided, with 56% in favor but 44% opposed, and local opposition may increase when specific reactor sites are proposed [5]