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- Clean Transition Rate Model: Developed mechanisms such as the clean transition rate and advanced procurement processes to accelerate clean energy adoption.
- Global Reach: Expanded clean energy capacity in Asia Pacific and partnered on nuclear and geothermal projects globally.
- Scalable Solutions: Collaborated with Microsoft and others to scale advanced clean energy technologies, driving decarbonization worldwide.
Tackling Growing Energy Demand in 2024
As global electricity demand continues to surge, driven by AI, electrification, and digitalization, building smarter energy systems presents both challenges and opportunities. In 2024, Google implemented six innovative measures to advance energy solutions for a more reliable and sustainable future.
1. A Clean Transition Rate Model
Google partnered with NV Energy to propose a clean transition rate, a groundbreaking model designed to encourage investment in “clean, firm” energy sources such as geothermal and nuclear.
“This model unlocks new investments while ensuring costs aren’t passed to consumers,” stated NV Energy.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed with Duke Energy to replicate this model in its service territory.
2. Expanding Clean Energy in Asia Pacific
In the Asia Pacific region, where wind and solar resources are limited, Google partnered with BlackRock to develop 1 GW of solar capacity in Taiwan. The investment in New Green Power supports Google’s electricity needs while offering capacity to semiconductor suppliers.
“Through projects across five countries, challenges are being transformed into opportunities,” commented a member of Google’s Asia Pacific team.
3. Advancing Nuclear Energy
Google collaborated with Kairos Power to develop small modular nuclear reactors, enabling the addition of 500 MW of clean and reliable power.
“Kairos’ innovative approach ensures communities benefit from cost-effective nuclear energy,” remarked Kairos Power.
4. Scaling Reliable Clean Energy
In partnership with Microsoft and Nucor, Google aggregated demand for advanced technologies like enhanced geothermal, clean hydrogen, and long-duration energy storage. This collaboration accelerates investments and innovation aimed at decarbonizing global electricity grids.
5. Accelerating Clean Energy Deals
Google streamlined the power purchase agreement (PPA) process, reducing execution time by 80%. In 2024, contracts were signed for 3.3 GW of new clean energy capacity across North America and Europe.
6. Co-Locating Data Centers with Clean Energy
Through partnerships with Intersect Power and TPG Rise Climate, Google strategically co-located data centers with new clean energy generation facilities in the U.S., reducing transmission needs and expediting operations.
Looking Ahead
These six actions are part of Google’s broader effort to advance energy solutions that are reliable, affordable, and sustainable. As momentum builds, the company remains committed to driving innovation to meet future energy demands.
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