Google to power 'next generation' nuclear projects in the US

Google has signed a strategic agreement with Elementl Power, a nuclear project developer, to develop at least three safe, reliable and affordable nuclear projects in the US.

Under the agreement, Elementl Power will leverage Google's capability to bring more than 10 gigawatts (GW) online across the nation by 2035.

Google will also commit early-stage development capital to advance the development of the three projects, with each generating at least 600 megawatts (MW) and carries the option for commercial off-take once they are completed.

Both parties will work collaboratively with utility and regulated power partners to further identify and advance new projects, they said.

Elementl Power chair and chief executive Chris Colbert said Google's support is instrumental to advancing these projects.

"Innovative partnerships like this are necessary to mobilize the capital required to build new nuclear projects, which are critical to deliver safe, affordable and clean baseload power and help companies advance their long-term net zero goals," Colbert said.

"We look forward to working with Google to execute these projects and bring safe, carbon-free, baseload electricity to the grid."

Elementl Power co-founder and president Ryan Mills added that the partnership represents a "significant" milestone for the company's growth trajectory.

Meanwhile, Google global head of data centre energy Amanda Peterson Corio said: "Google is committed to catalysing projects that strengthen the power grids where we operate, and advanced nuclear technology provides reliable, baseload, 24/7 energy."

"Our collaboration with Elementl Power enhances our ability to move at the speed required to meet this moment of AI and American innovation."

Founded in 2022, Elementl Power is a portfolio company of Breakwater North, and operates by providing development, financing and ownership solutions for customers looking for clean baseload power but may not want to own or operate nuclear power asstes.

To achieve this, Elementl Power is creating a scalable advance nuclear energy procurement model, engaging some of the world's largest energy purchasers, it said.