Episode 44 - Data centers going nuclear, with Tony Grayson, Compass Datacenters
Nov 16, 2023
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Tony Grayson of Compass Datacenters discusses the future of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in data centers and their role in sustainable energy. The podcast covers the evolution of nuclear power, comparing deaths and radiation levels from nuclear energy vs. fossil fuels, benefits and concerns surrounding nuclear data centers, safety measures and advancements in nuclear reactors, the move towards data-centric communities, zoning for nuclear plants, and the potential of small reactors in data centers.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) face challenges in design standardization and long approval processes, while microreactors offer a promising solution for smaller power needs.
Passive cooling systems in nuclear power plants present challenges related to regulatory requirements and operational control.
Collaboration between data centers and microreactor developers could accelerate the production and commercialization of microreactors as a potential solution for meeting near-term power demands.
Deep dives
Nuclear Power for Data Centers: The Realistic Timeline
Nuclear power was once viewed as a silver bullet for providing low-carbon energy to data centers, but the reality is not as straightforward. The timelines and costs for nuclear power have turned out to be different than anticipated. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have shown potential, but they still face challenges in terms of design standardization and long approval processes. Microreactors, on the other hand, offer a more promising solution for smaller power needs and can be self-contained and easily replaceable. However, the manufacturing and commercialization of microreactors will require further innovation and regulation. Fusion, while a scientifically exciting prospect, is still a long way from practical implementation. In the meantime, data centers can contribute to the transition to cleaner energy by collaborating to fund and pioneer the development of nuclear power plants for base-load power. This would require focusing on both time-to-market and the establishment of robust transmission networks to support the deployment of nuclear power for data centers.
The Challenges of Passive Cooling Systems for Nuclear Power
The adoption of passive cooling systems in nuclear power plants, particularly in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), presents certain challenges. Passive systems rely on natural processes such as thermal driving head for cooling, eliminating the need for active systems. However, regulators often require precise data on cooling effectiveness and safety measures. Additionally, the lack of remote shutdown capability in passive systems raises concerns regarding operational control if unauthorized access occurs. Overcoming these challenges will require a better understanding of passive cooling systems, standardization of designs, and potentially exploring the advancements in Generation IV reactors to address safety and control requirements.
Microreactors: The Near-Term Future for Nuclear Power
Microreactors offer a potential solution for meeting near-term power demands. These reactors, with a capacity of less than 20 megawatts, are self-contained and require minimal manning. They can play a crucial role in supplying base-load power to smaller data center campuses or as supplementary power for surge demands. While Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) face uncertainties in terms of design standardization and regulatory approvals, microreactors are based on existing submarine reactor designs, which can expedite their deployment and scalability. Collaboration between data centers and microreactor developers could help accelerate the production and commercialization of microreactors.
The Prospects and Challenges of Fusion Power
Fusion power holds immense promise as a cleaner energy source, but its practical implementation is still a challenge. While recent experiments have achieved positive gains in terms of energy output, there are significant engineering hurdles to overcome, such as transforming the heat produced through fusion into electricity. Furthermore, fusion power requires substantial funding and the establishment of specialized infrastructure. In the near term, focusing on the advancements of Generation IV fission reactors, which offer inherent safety and greater fuel efficiency, may be a more realistic approach. Fusion remains an exciting field of scientific exploration, but fission technologies are better poised to meet current energy demands.
Building Data Centers with Nuclear Power: Future Considerations
The prospect of nuclear-powered data centers raises questions about location, transmission infrastructure, and stakeholder engagement. Areas already zoned for nuclear power could be ideal sites for data centers, but the challenge lies in establishing the necessary fiber connectivity and power transmission networks. Additionally, collaboration between data centers and nuclear power providers is crucial to strike a balance between providing affordable power, supporting local communities, and fostering sustainability. As data centers increasingly play a role in renewable energy adoption, the integration of nuclear power can further contribute to decarbonization efforts by supporting base-load power requirements.
Data centers need to be more sustainable, but finding consistent and powerful energy resources can be a challenge.
Increasingly, we are seeing nuclear entering the conversation, in the form of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). But these aren't without their own controversies.
In this episode, we talk with Compass Datacenters' Tony Grayson to discuss the future of SMRs, the challenges and opportunities, and the role we can expect them to play in the world of data centers.
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