News reports today say Google has signed contract w Constellation energy to buy power from expansion of existing nuclear power plants as well as restarting closed plants.
Data centers for AI seem to be drivers of the next phase of nuclear power. Expansion continues.
Here is an article from World Nuclear News on the Google deal…
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This comes shortly after Amazon and Constellation announced a similar upgrade deal at the Calvert Cliffs plant in Maryland.
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These upgrades (uprates) are usually rather modest for just one plant, but if they are done at multiple units, then the extra power could add up. The uprates are probably things like replacing the steam turbine blades with a more efficient design. They can also do things like upgrade the instruments and controls to more accurately measure plant parameters.
It is difficult to change the license to allow a nuclear plant to operate at a higher-than-designed reactor power level. Therefore, if they want a little extra power, then small modifications to the turbine or other support systems, are the only thing they can do. Keep the reactor power the same, but squeeze out a few extra megawatts where they can through improved efficiency.
_ Pete
Microsoft is involved in utilizing nuclear power for AI as well…doc
Three Mile Island nuclear power plant will reopen for Microsoft : NPR