Link: Bill Gates’ nuclear energy startup inks new data center deal

TerraPower, a nuclear energy startup co-founded by Bill Gates, has partnered with Sabey Data Centers to use nuclear reactors for powering data centers. This collaboration aims to address the increasing energy demands of AI technologies that strain existing power grids.

The deal will explore the feasibility of erecting new nuclear plants in Texas and the Rocky Mountain area. These plants will specifically support the energy needs of Sabey Data Centers.

Nuclear power, seen as a greener alternative, could help mitigate climate change issues caused by traditional fossil fuels. However, it still faces criticism due to concerns about uranium mining and the disposal of radioactive waste.

Despite the environmental benefits, TerraPower's projects, including their Natrium reactor design, must overcome significant regulatory and commercial barriers. The technology is notably different, intended to be smaller and more manageable than traditional nuclear reactors.

Major tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are also exploring nuclear solutions to sustainably power their operations. Each is investing in the development of advanced nuclear technologies for their data centers.

Bill Gates emphasizes the potential of nuclear energy in solving critical climate issues while acknowledging the challenges in safety and waste management. #

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