Google’s first advanced nuclear reactor site is located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, with the Hermes 2 plant set to be operational in 2030. This move is part of a 2024 agreement with Kairos Power, supplying 50 megawatts (MW) of power under a long-term agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), focusing on serving Google data centers in Tennessee and Alabama. \n\nHere’s a detailed look at the project:\n- **Hermes 2 Plant**: Located in Oak Ridge, this Gen IV small modular reactor (SMR) plant will generate 50 MW, initially powering Google data centers.\n- **500 MW Goal by 2035**: This plant is part of a broader vision, aiming for 500 MW of SMR capacity by 2035 to support Google’s decarbonization goals.\n- **Technological Insight**: The Hermes 2 features molten salt-cooled reactors, promising scalable energy solutions.\n- **Regulatory Milestone**: Construction permits were granted in November 2024, ensuring readiness for 2030 operations.\n- **Partnership Significance**: Google’s involvement marks the first U.S. corporate deal to purchase SMR electricity, signaling a significant step in energy innovation.\n\nUS Energy Secretary Chris Wright highlighted the critical role of advanced reactors like Hermes 2 in maintaining energy leadership. This pioneering effort is set to provide carbon-free, reliable power, supporting the AI economy’s energy needs. Read more about the collaboration between Google, Kairos Power, and TVA as they lead the charge in nuclear technology.
