Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business.
Reviving Three Mile Island: A Bold Move for Sustainable AI Energy
Microsoft has entered into a 20 year agreement to purchase power from the Three Mile Island nuclear plant in Pennsylvania, the site of the most notorious nuclear accident in U.S. history. Scheduled to reopen in 2028 after substantial upgrades, the plant will provide the tech giant with a clean energy source to support its growing AI driven data centers.
Reviving Three Mile Island for AI Power
The reactor set to restart is adjacent to the unit that suffered a partial meltdown in 1979, a disaster that halted the progress of nuclear power in the U.S. for decades. While no injuries or deaths occurred, the incident sparked public fear and mistrust of nuclear energy. However, Constellation Energy, the plant's current owner, has emphasized that the two reactors are "fully independent."
In light of mounting concerns over climate change, nuclear power is experiencing a resurgence in interest as companies seek carbon free energy sources to meet rising demands. Constellation CEO Joe Dominguez highlighted the plant's history as one of the safest and most reliable nuclear facilities, expressing confidence in its "rebirth" as a vital clean energy provider.
A New Mission for a Historic Power Plant
Once reopened, the plant is expected to generate more than 800 megawatts of carbon-free electricity, contributing significantly to decarbonizing the grid, as Microsoft aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The tech company called this deal a "milestone" in its sustainability efforts.
Constellation plans to invest $1.6 billion to upgrade the facility, with hopes to keep it operational until at least 2054. The reopening is projected to create 3,400 jobs and generate billions in economic activity, according to a study by The Brattle Group.
Renewed Interest in Nuclear Energy
Despite the historical controversy surrounding Three Mile Island, the growing energy needs driven by AI and advancements in data technology have led tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon to turn to nuclear power. Earlier this year, Amazon also signed a deal involving nuclear energy to power its data centers, a move that is now under regulatory review.
As the energy demands of the digital age continue to rise, nuclear power is being reconsidered as a viable and sustainable solution to meet these needs.
