DOE backs $1.9 billion loan to revive Iowa nuclear plant for Google
The U.S. Department of Energy approved a $1.9 billion loan to NextEra Energy to restart the Duane Arnold nuclear reactor in Iowa, supplying power to Google’s AI data centers.
The Department of Energy has granted a $1.9 billion loan to NextEra Energy for the revival of the Duane Arnold Energy Center, a 615-megawatt nuclear facility in Linn County, Iowa. The plant, which ceased operations after a 2020 storm toppled its cooling towers, is being prepared to supply electricity to Google’s AI data centers and bolster local grid stability. Google, which has pledged to power its operations with renewable sources, previously relied on natural-gas contracts for some sites.
By securing nuclear power, the company aims to reduce emissions associated with data-center energy use, though nuclear waste remains a concern. The DOE intends to restart several mothballed plants to support both the grid and AI-intensive workloads. NextEra projects that the restart will generate thousands of jobs across the supply chain, with full operation targeted for 2029.
Why it matters
Reviving a nuclear plant to power AI data centers could reshape energy sourcing for tech giants and boost regional employment.
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