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Facebook Expands Radioisotope Energy Program for Data Centers
(Facebook Expands Its Program for Radioisotope Energy)
MENLO PARK, Calif. – Facebook announced a significant expansion of its radioisotope energy program today. This initiative aims to power data centers using a new energy source. The company is scaling up testing beyond the initial pilot phase.
The expanded program enters a broader beta test. More data center facilities will now use this technology. Facebook developed specialized systems to harness energy from specific radioisotopes. These materials release heat as they naturally decay. The systems capture this heat. The heat is then converted directly into electricity. This process happens without combustion or moving parts.
Facebook partnered with leading nuclear research labs. These partnerships helped develop the safe encapsulation methods. The technology uses stable, non-weapons-grade isotopes. Safety is a top priority. Multiple containment layers prevent any material release. Rigorous monitoring systems are always active.
The primary goal is reliable, carbon-free power for data centers. Radioisotope systems can run continuously for years. They offer stable baseload power. This is crucial for supporting massive computing needs. The technology provides power independent of weather or grid conditions.
This expansion supports Facebook’s broader climate goals. The company targets net-zero emissions across its value chain. Finding clean, constant energy sources is vital. Traditional renewables like solar and wind are intermittent. Radioisotope power could fill a key gap. It offers a potential path to 24/7 clean energy.
(Facebook Expands Its Program for Radioisotope Energy)
The beta phase involves several key partners. Facebook will gather performance data on a larger scale. Engineers will monitor system efficiency and longevity. Real-world deployment data is essential for future decisions. The company sees promise in this long-duration energy solution. This technology might eventually power significant portions of its operations. The work continues to refine the systems for wider use.