I worked at Google for 7 years and watched the open culture die. The company is doomed to repeat unnecessary embarrassment if they don't fix it.
Business InsiderMAR 4 2024
Google Monday announced signing a deal with California-based Kairos Power to use — beginning by 2030 — small nuclear reactors to fuel its AI data centres.
Michael Terrell, Google's Senior Director of Energy and Climate, said the deal will add 500 MW of "carbon-free power" from 6-7 reactors to US power grids.
The "orderbook" framework of the Google-Kairos deal is reportedly intended to indicate a demand signal to the market, paving the path for long-term investments.
The Google-Kairos deal signals a pivotal shift in the tech industry's approach to energy. As AI's computing needs skyrocket, this partnership represents a strategic bet on nuclear energy's potential to provide the reliable, carbon-free power necessary to fuel technological advancement. This bold initiative could pave the way for a new era of sustainable AI development, potentially revolutionizing the global energy landscape.
The Google-Kairos deal reveals a troubling trajectory in the tech industry's pursuit of AI dominance. It signifies an alarming willingness to embrace potentially hazardous energy sources to fuel the insatiable appetite of AI systems. Tech giants are turning to nuclear power despite its inherent risks and controversial history. It not only raises safety concerns but also highlights the unsustainable energy consumption of AI development. Google's decision could set a dangerous precedent, prioritizing technological advancement over long-term environmental and safety considerations.