In a daring step toward long-term energy sustainability, Meta has committed to sourcing nuclear electricity for its expanding fleet of AI data centers for a number of decades.
The deal represents a major change in Big Tech’s strategy for meeting artificial intelligence’s enormous computing demands in a clean, dependable, and long-term manner.
The agreement, made with Oklo, a nuclear energy startup supported by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, intends to introduce small modular reactors (SMRs), a new class of compact nuclear plants with low emissions and high efficiency.
This collaboration demonstrates Meta’s resolve to spearhead sustainable innovation and its rising concern over AI’s energy footprint.
Meta claimed that reviving the nuclear plant will preserve more than 1,100 local jobs and contribute $13.5 million annually in tax revenue.
“It’s clear that there are many nuclear power plants serving the US that need long-term support to help our electricity grids remain reliable as energy needs grow,” the company said in a statement.
“Keeping an existing plant operating will have the same positive effect as adding new clean energy to the grid, and avoid the disruption that has occurred when other nuclear units have retired prematurely.”
