TerraPower plans nuclear plant with molten-salt storage to feed AI data hubs
TerraPower intends to build a 345-MW molten-salt-cooled reactor that stores excess heat, targeting AI data center power needs.
TerraPower, a nuclear venture co-founded by Bill Gates, revealed plans for its next power project, a 345-megawatt molten-salt-cooled reactor equipped with a large sodium heat-storage tank. The plant, expected to start construction in 2027, will be the company's second facility after the one currently being built in Wyoming. Unlike conventional reactors that must throttle output, TerraPower's design maintains constant fission and stores excess thermal energy, enabling quick response to the variable loads of AI data centers.
The approach aims to combine nuclear's high capacity factor with the flexibility needed on grids heavy with wind and solar. Earlier this year, the firm announced a purchase agreement with Meta for eight Natrium reactors, underscoring its focus on the data-center market. By reducing reliance on costly battery banks and gas turbines, the technology could give the startup a competitive edge in powering AI workloads.
Why it matters
It shows how nuclear innovation may address the growing electricity demand of AI computing while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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