Small modular reactor and nuclear recycling firm Oklo has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RPower, a provider of onsite prime and backup power solutions, to deploy a phased power model that combines natural gas and nuclear power for the data center sector. The model will combine RPowers natural gas generators with Oklo's Aurora Powerhouse reactor, which the companies claim will eliminate reliance on diesel backup generation in the data center market.
According to the partners, the model will work in three stages. First, RPower’s natural gas generators will be deployed within approximately 24 months to meet the immediate power needs of data centers that local utilities are unable to serve. Over time, the SMRs will displace the gas generators and become the primary energy supplier for the data center. This will enable the gas generators to serve as backup and support grid resilience by feeding power into the local grid when needed.
“This collaboration aims to ensure that data centers can access reliable energy today while building a clear and practical pathway to clean energy in the future,” said Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo.
“Our relationship with Oklo represents a powerful way to bridge today’s energy demands with tomorrow’s clean energy solutions,” said Jamie Smith, COO of RPower.
