CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Iowa is emerging as a magnet for massive data centers owned by Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple—companies that have invested over $17 billion statewide, according to the Iowa Economic Development Authority. But officials and energy experts warn that growing electricity demands could outpace capacity and strain water resources, especially as artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency mining expand.A newly obtained draft bill from Gov. Kim Reynolds appears to pave the way for a nuclear comeback in Iowa—an old solution returning just as momentum builds to restart the state’s only nuclear plant.
Reviving a reactor amid a data center surge
NextEra Energy, which operates the shuttered Duane Arnold nuclear facility near Palo, confirmed to Iowa’s News Now that it has filed notice with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to request a licensing change that could allow Duane Arnold to restart by 2028...
RSK: As data centers expand in Wisconsin, I wouldn`t be surprised to see the state`s nuclear reactors back in action.
Ken Notes: I am a fan of Small modular reactors (SMRs). These could be built on site, off load excess capacity, and are safer than larger units. How safe you ask every US Submarine and many large ships use them. No failures so far... nyse: BWXT
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- - Volume: 25 - WEEK: 9 Date: 2/25/2025 9:47:43 AM -