Microsoft taps Three Mile Island nuclear plant to power AI

Microsoft is utilizing the Three Mile Island nuclear plant to power its AI data centers through a deal with Constellation Energy.

: Microsoft has partnered with Constellation Energy to use power from the Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear plant, which will be revived by 2028. The plant, to be renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center, will produce 835 megawatts and create thousands of jobs. This move aligns with big tech's push for green energy, though it may challenge Microsoft's goal to run entirely on green energy by 2030.

Microsoft signed a significant deal with Constellation Energy to power its data centers with electricity from the Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear plant. Located next to the infamous TMI-Unit 2, Unit 1 was shut down in 2019 but will be revived by 2028 with a $1.6 billion investment, pending regulatory approval.

The deal ensures Microsoft will purchase all power produced by the reactor for the next 20 years, providing a capacity of 835 megawatts. The plant will be renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center in honor of Chris Crane, Constellation's former CEO.

Microsoft's push towards nuclear power aligns with broader trends in big tech as companies like Amazon and Alphabet also explore green energy solutions. Despite aiming to run entirely on green energy by 2030, Microsoft acknowledges that its AI initiatives may jeopardize this goal, against a backdrop of soaring demand for clean electricity.

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