CNBC·2025-10-28 06:14Core Insights - Google and NextEra Energy are partnering to revive the Duane Arnold Energy Center in Iowa to meet the increasing low-carbon energy demand driven by artificial intelligence [1][3] - The plant, which has a capacity of 615 MW, is expected to begin operations in early 2029, pending regulatory approval [1][2] - Google plans to purchase power from the plant as a 24/7 carbon-free energy source to support its cloud and AI infrastructure in Iowa [2] Industry Trends - The revival of the nuclear plant reflects a broader trend of increasing energy demand in the U.S., particularly from tech companies investing heavily in AI [3][4] - The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that total annual electricity consumption reached a record high in 2024, with expectations for continued growth due to expanding data centers [4] - Nuclear energy is being promoted as a solution to address the energy demands associated with AI computing and to enhance local grid reliability [4][5] Company Initiatives - The partnership is seen as a model for necessary investments across the country to build energy capacity, deliver reliable clean power, and create jobs in the AI-driven economy [6] - Google has invested over $6.8 billion in data centers in Iowa, indicating strong local support for such projects [8] - Iowa lawmakers have expressed optimism about the project, highlighting its potential to support local jobs and energy infrastructure [8] Competitive Landscape - Other tech companies, such as Microsoft and Oracle, are also exploring nuclear energy partnerships to power their data centers, indicating a growing trend in the industry [5] - The revival of the Duane Arnold Energy Center follows similar initiatives, showcasing a shift towards nuclear energy as a viable option for tech companies [5]