Revitalizing Nuclear Energy: NextEra and Google Join Forces
A significant leap towards enhancing America’s energy resilience is on the horizon with the planned revitalization of the Duane Arnold Energy Center. This pivotal move aims to have Iowa’s sole nuclear facility back in full operation by early 2029. The project promises to generate approximately 400 direct, high-quality full-time jobs and inject over $9 billion into Iowa’s economy.
Announced on October 27, 2025, in Juno Beach, Florida, and Mountain View, California, two groundbreaking agreements between NextEra Energy and Google underscore this initiative. These agreements are set to fortify U.S. nuclear leadership while catering to the rising energy demands driven by artificial intelligence (AI) with sustainable, reliable nuclear energy.
The core of this partnership is the anticipated restart of the Duane Arnold Energy Center in Palo, Iowa. Once operational, this 615-MW nuclear plant will provide Google with a continuous supply of carbon-free energy to support its expanding cloud and AI infrastructure in Iowa. This move not only boosts local grid reliability but also paves the way for numerous direct and indirect job opportunities, alongside substantial economic growth in the Midwest.
Google’s 25-year commitment to buy carbon-free energy from Duane Arnold is mirrored by Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO), which will purchase the remaining output of the plant. NextEra Energy has finalized agreements to acquire a combined 30% interest from CIPCO and Corn Belt Power Cooperative, thereby achieving full ownership of the plant. The facility, which ceased operations in 2020, is projected to resume electricity provision to the grid by the first quarter of 2029, contingent on regulatory approval.
Meeting AI’s Energy Demands
As AI continues to fuel a new era of innovation in the U.S., this strategic collaboration aims to support Google’s responsible business expansion. The power purchase agreement with Google funds the plant’s restart and covers energy production costs at Duane Arnold. This expansion of generation capacity in the region ensures that Iowa’s energy consumers will not face any costs from the energy purchased by Google. NextEra Energy’s investments align with Google’s vision to drive economic growth, enhance scientific and educational outcomes, and bolster national and global security through AI.
This collaboration also includes an agreement to explore new nuclear generation projects across the U.S., addressing America’s increasing electricity needs.
“Restarting Duane Arnold marks an important milestone for NextEra Energy,” noted John Ketchum, chairman and CEO of NextEra Energy. “Our partnership with Google not only brings nuclear energy back to Iowa — it also accelerates the development of next-generation nuclear technology.”
Economic and Employment Benefits
The restart of Duane Arnold is anticipated to deliver significant economic advantages across Iowa. According to an economic study, the project will create more than 1,600 direct, indirect, and induced jobs during construction and generate over $340 million in annual economic output during its operations.
In Linn County alone, the project will support over 800 jobs during construction and approximately 400 full-time positions once operational. Additionally, it is expected to boost local earnings significantly and contribute an average of $3 million annually in tax revenue to support essential services such as schools and infrastructure.
State leaders have expressed strong support for the initiative. “Iowa isn’t just a place to build; it’s a place to lead,” stated Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, emphasizing the state’s role in advancing nuclear energy and AI innovation to shape a sustainable digital future.
The Duane Arnold project is undergoing meticulous engineering assessments, community engagement, and collaborative efforts with regulatory bodies to ensure a safe and timely return to service.
About the Partners
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) is a leading electric power and energy infrastructure company in North America. For more details, visit www.NextEraEnergy.com.
Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., is a global leader in technology, well-known for its mission to organize the world’s information. More information can be found on their official site.
Original Story at www.easternprogress.com