Google partners with Constellation to boost US nuclear energy capacity

Google has entered into a power-purchase agreement (PPA) with Constellation to upgrade six nuclear plants in the US. The deal aims to boost the power output of existing reactors and reactivate dormant facilities, adding more than 1.5GW of new nuclear capacity to the US energy grid. Google cited the rapid expansion of its data centers, driven by the artificial intelligence boom, as the primary reason for seeking additional energy sources.

The agreement also involves Constellation using Google’s agentic AI workflows to optimize reactor output and streamline construction. Google emphasized that the investment would support local jobs, strengthen the US energy supply, and avoid additional costs for other ratepayers. The company described the initiative as a step toward a more affordable energy future for all.

However, the move has faced criticism. Opponents argue that many nuclear reactor deals include substantial loans from the US government, effectively burdening taxpayers. On Monday, the US Department of Energy announced a $4.2 billion deal to modernize nuclear plants in Ohio and Pennsylvania, drawing similar concerns. Safety issues also persist, particularly with the rehabilitation of the Three Mile Island reactor and efforts to restart the Palisades reactor in Michigan, which has faced regulatory scrutiny due to recent incidents.

Despite the backlash, Google remains optimistic. The company stated that the PPA ensures guaranteed revenue for Constellation to upgrade 11 nuclear reactors without imposing costs on other grid customers. This reflects a broader trend among Big Tech firms supporting nuclear energy to meet growing energy demands.