Nuclear Power Plants for AI Data Centres: a Solution to Growing Energy Challenge

Such growth being driven by artificial intelligence and data centres with a particular need for carbon-free 24/7 energy generation. Unlike unstable renewable sources, nuclear power provides consistent power generation that meets the constant needs of data centres.

The advantages of nuclear power for AI operations:

• Nuclear plants provide a steady energy supply for AI operations;
• A single nuclear facility can power multiple large-scale data centres;
• Produces zero direct carbon emissions during operation;
• Nuclear plants require significantly less land than solar or wind farms to generate equivalent power.

The production of nuclear power still faces some obstacles, including high cost of construction, strict regulations and long approval process, and community concerns, particularly from those who live close to the power station.

Industry leaders embracing nuclear power

Big tech companies are already moving toward AI operations fueled by nuclear power. Microsoft has committed to purchase 100% of the output from the revitalised Three Mile Island nuclear facility. The 837MW Pennsylvania plant is to open in 2028, once it receives regulatory approval. It is expected to power Microsoft's data centres across Pennsylvania, Chicago, Virginia, and Ohio.

Google is also planning to purchase nuclear energy from multiple small modular reactors (SMRs). This deal is expected to secure up to 500 MW of continuous carbon-free power.

In Europe, nuclear expertise is also attracting attention. EDF conducts negotiations with several major companies to power three 1GW data centres using nuclear energy. While company names remain confidential, these discussions highlight the growing interest in nuclear-powered AI infrastructure around the world.

Regulatory and policy implications for sustainable AI and data centres

The growth of AI infrastructure led to the appearance of new policies and standards, which manage energy consumption and environmental impact. The EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) requires large organisations to report sustainability metrics, like energy and carbon emissions. Similar reporting requirements are being introduced in the United States.

According to the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), data centres which capacity exceeds 500 kW should report their total energy use. This report should include the amount of energy they get from renewable sources, their water usage, and how they use waste heat.

Here are a few examples. As regulations change and new ones appear, companies need to focus on sustainable practices. The success of AI will depend on balancing computing power with environmental responsibility. Because of this, following regulations should be an important part of strategic planning.

Addressing the energy demands of AI and data centres

Companies are realising the need for more sustainable sources to power AI infrastructure. Here comes the option of using nuclear energy, as it offers steady carbon-free energy to meet the constant demands of AI operations.

While major tech companies like Microsoft and Google are already moving toward nuclear-powered data centres, the industry is also exploring other solutions, from innovative cooling systems to energy-efficient hardware.

As technology changes, regulations change too. Green data centre developments and the move toward nuclear power point to a future that may allow for further advancements in AI while upholding environmental responsibility.