Alphabet nears $1 billion nuclear energy deal with Constellation
Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, is in advanced discussions to secure a massive multi-year nuclear energy supply deal with Constellation Energy Corp. Valued at over $1 billion, the agreement could be finalized as early as this week. This move highlights the escalating energy demands of AI-driven data centers, which require constant, reliable power, something intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind cannot consistently provide.
Google’s electricity consumption has skyrocketed from 12.8 terawatt-hours in 2019 to 44 terawatt-hours in 2025. Over 95% of Alphabet’s global electricity use powers its data centers, with the remainder supporting administrative offices and corporate campuses. To manage this surge, the company has implemented high-efficiency servers, machine learning, and advanced cooling systems. However, the slow pace of building new nuclear reactors leaves tech firms with limited options, driving them to maximize existing nuclear infrastructure.
The tech industry is increasingly turning to nuclear power to meet its growing energy needs. Amazon recently signed a 690-megawatt deal with Constellation, while Microsoft has supported restarting Pennsylvania’s Three Mile Island plant. Google has also partnered with NextEra Energy to reopen Iowa’s Duane Arnold reactor and invested in upgrades at two Southern Co. nuclear sites.
Despite global enthusiasm for nuclear energy waning due to high costs and safety concerns, recent years have seen a revival. Nations aiming for climate targets and tech firms seeking reliable electricity are aligning to revive nuclear power. However, Alphabet’s latest environmental report reveals an 81% surge in greenhouse gas emissions since 2019, driven by AI growth. The company aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, focusing on nuclear energy, enhanced geothermal, and commercial fusion power.
To optimize grid connections, Google and Nvidia have joined Emerald AI’s AI Energy Management Alliance. The coalition uses Emerald AI’s technology to reduce data center power usage during peak grid stress, potentially freeing up capacity for an additional 100 gigawatts of data center infrastructure.