Google accelerates renewable energy for AI

Renewable projects by Google and Intersect Power aim to meet growing AI energy needs faster than nuclear power.

Google, TPG Rise Climate, Intersect Power, AI

Google has announced a $20 billion partnership with Intersect Power and TPG Rise Climate to build renewable energy projects, battery storage, and grid upgrades for its data centres. The initiative includes wind, solar, and battery storage facilities, each paired with 1-gigawatt-scale data centres to meet growing energy demands for AI technology. The first phase is expected to be operational by 2026.

The plan aims to address grid bottlenecks, with Google funding required upgrades to accelerate connectivity. This strategy highlights renewables’ speed over nuclear options, which have longer timelines for implementation.

Industry experts predict a shortfall in energy for AI-focused data centres by 2027, underscoring the urgency for alternative power sources. While Google also invests in nuclear energy projects, renewables are expected to dominate in the near term.