Meta, Facebook’s parent company, is launching a search for developers to build nuclear reactors that will power its data centers in the early 2030s. The move aims to reduce the carbon footprint of its energy-thirsty AI operations by using zero-carbon electrons.
The tech giant has issued a “request for proposals” for projects ranging from one to four gigawatts, seeking partners who can accelerate the development of new nuclear generators and achieve cost reductions through economies of scale. Meta’s open to various reactor designs, locations, and partnerships, with a focus on finding reliable collaborators from project inception to completion.
In an interview, Urvi Parekh, Meta’s head of global energy, emphasized the company’s willingness to invest in early-stage development and share costs. She noted that the project is “geographically agnostic,” meaning that reactors may be deployed where they can be built most quickly, regardless of their proximity to data centers.
Meta’s foray into nuclear power follows its long history of investing in renewable energy projects. The company sees parallels between its corporate renewables contracting and this new initiative, which aims to overcome industry hesitancy by providing certainty about project financing and partnerships.
The search for developers will conclude with initial responses due by February 7.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2024/12/03/meta-facebook-nuclear-power-ai-data-centers