What could go wrong? Google throws support behind new nuclear reactors that will be used to power AI systems

Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Google is backing the construction of seven new small nuclear reactors in the United States in order to fuel the ballooning demand for electricity from artificial intelligence. The deal, known as a power purchase agreement, is meant to accelerate the development of new nuclear technology just as tech firms helped popularise wind and solar energy throughout the 2010s. "Nuclear solutions offer a clean, round-the-clock power source that can help us reliably meet electricity demands with carbon-free energy every hour of every day. open image in gallery A mock-up of a new nuclear power plant released by the energy start-up Kairos, which has signed a deal with Google to build seven new small reactors in the US to help power AI system The company added that AI is already "powering major scientific advances, improving services for businesses and customers, and driving national competitiveness and economic growth,” arguing that nuclear power will "unlock full potential for everyone."