Meta is looking for nuclear energy reactor developers | The Daily Star
Meta has announced plans to explore nuclear energy as part of its efforts to power artificial intelligence advancements and support its environmental objectives. According to the company, they will issue a request for proposals (RFP) to identify developers capable of building 1 to 4 gigawatts of new nuclear power capacity reactors in the United States.
Addressing Electricity Demand
Meta's decision to venture into nuclear energy is a response to the expected increase in electricity demand driven by the rapid growth of AI technologies and data centers. With US data centre power consumption projected to triple by 2030, an additional 47 gigawatts of electricity generation will be required. Meta believes that nuclear energy will play a vital role in establishing a cleaner, more reliable, and diversified power grid.
While Meta continues its investments in renewable energy sources like solar and wind, it considers nuclear power as a complementary solution. Nuclear projects may be costlier to build, have longer development times, and encounter more regulatory obstacles compared to renewables. However, they offer a longer operational lifespan, necessitating early and strategic planning.
Seeking Experienced Developers
Meta is looking for developers with expertise in community engagement, regulatory permitting, and nuclear technology. The company is open to proposals for both large traditional nuclear reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs), an emerging technology that is not yet widely commercialized.
Developers interested in participating in this initiative must submit their proposals by February 7, 2025. Meta aims to start adding nuclear power capacity in the early 2030s. Despite the promise of nuclear energy, its implementation in the US faces challenges such as regulatory hurdles.
According to an article by Reuters, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is often overwhelmed, and issues like uranium supply shortages and local opposition to new reactors could impede progress. Nevertheless, Meta is not the only tech giant considering nuclear energy for data center operations.
Earlier this year, Microsoft collaborated with Constellation Energy to restart a nuclear reactor at Pennsylvania's Three Mile Island for data center use. Similarly, Amazon has invested in a nuclear-powered data center developed by Talen Energy.
