Microsoft, the technology giant, is actively seeking a principal program manager to oversee its nuclear energy strategy for powering data centers and AI projects. This move comes as the company aims to find cleaner sources of energy to meet its climate goals, considering the large amount of electricity consumed by data centers and the challenges posed by AI.
While nuclear energy does not produce greenhouse gas emissions, it does raise concerns regarding radioactive waste and the uranium supply chain. Despite these concerns, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has long been an advocate for nuclear technology. Microsoft is now placing its bets on advanced nuclear reactors, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), in order to address its energy needs.
SMRs are believed to be easier and cheaper to build compared to older, larger reactors. In a recent development, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission certified an SMR design for the first time, potentially opening up a new chapter for nuclear energy. However, utilizing SMRs to power data centers brings its own set of challenges, such as the requirement for more highly enriched uranium fuel and the question of nuclear waste management. So far, Microsoft has not revealed its specific plans for next-generation nuclear technology or how it intends to tackle these challenges.
Nevertheless, Microsoft has taken some steps towards greener energy solutions. The company has struck a deal with Canadian utility Ontario Power Generation to purchase clean energy credits. Ontario Power Generation plans to deploy an SMR as part of this agreement. Furthermore, Microsoft has also secured a deal to purchase electricity from Helion, a company specializing in the development of fusion power plants. Fusion power is seen as a futuristic and cleaner alternative to nuclear fission, but it is still considered to be at least decades away from becoming a reality.
Microsoft’s commitment to nuclear technology aligns with its goal of helping customers do more with less and encouraging innovation in the new era of AI. CEO Satya Nadella emphasized this objective in the job listing for the principal program manager role. As data centers and AI continue to grow in prominence, finding sustainable and clean sources of energy becomes crucial for companies like Microsoft.
Analyst. Amateur problem solver. Wannabe internet expert. Coffee geek. Tv guru. Award-winning communicator. Food nerd.