Google and U.S. energy giant NextEra Energy announced Monday a partnership to revive Iowa’s only nuclear power plant to help meet the growing demand for low-carbon energy driven by AI.
“Once operational, Google will purchase power from the 615-MW plant as a 24/7 carbon-free energy source to help power Google’s growing cloud and AI infrastructure in Iowa, while also strengthening local grid reliability,” the companies said in a press release.
The Duane Arnold Energy Center, which closed in 2020, could begin operating in early 2029, pending regulatory approval.
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“[The Google-NextEra partnership] serves as a model for the investments needed across the country to build energy capacity and deliver reliable, clean power, while protecting affordability and creating jobs that will drive the AI-driven economy,” Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google, said.
“Bringing Duane Arnold back online is a big win for Linn County and the entire state of Iowa,” State Senator Charlie McClintock said, adding that the announcement shows Iowa can “keep the lights” on for residents and businesses.
The Duane Arnold Energy Center (DAEC), located in Palo, Iowa, was the state’s only nuclear power plant. Construction began on May 22, 1970, and commercial operations started on February 1, 1975. The plant featured a single 601 MW boiling water reactor supplied by General Electric and was primarily owned by NextEra Energy Resources (70%), with the remainder held by Central Iowa Power Cooperative (20%) and Corn Belt Power Cooperative (10%). In December 2010, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission extended its operating license to 2034.
However, in 2018, Alliant Energy, a major purchaser of DAEC’s electricity, decided to shorten its power purchase agreement. This, combined with economic considerations, led to a planned early shutdown. The plant ceased operations on August 10, 2020, after its cooling towers sustained significant damage from a derecho storm. Following the shutdown, the plant entered decommissioning, with spent fuel stored safely on-site.
The revival of the Duane Arnold Energy Center (DAEC) marks a significant milestone for both Iowa and Google, highlighting the growing intersection of clean energy and advanced technology. For Iowa, restarting its only nuclear power plant represents a major boost to local energy infrastructure, ensuring a reliable, low-carbon electricity supply that strengthens grid stability and supports economic growth. The project also promises job creation during the refurbishment and operation phases, benefiting the local community while reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in sustainable energy development.
For Google, securing a 24/7 carbon-free energy source aligns with its commitment to sustainability while supporting the rapid expansion of its AI and cloud infrastructure in the region. Reliable, large-scale nuclear power will provide the constant energy required for high-performance computing, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping the company meet aggressive environmental goals.
The DAEC project demonstrates a model for integrating traditional energy assets with emerging technological demands. It underscores the potential of nuclear energy to provide continuous, low-carbon power at a time when demand for electricity is growing due to AI, data centers, and other energy-intensive industries.