Geotechnical work has already begun at a site in Amarillo
US-based private energy developer Fermi America has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) to plan and develop the nuclear component of what is designed to be the world’s largest, first-of-its kind private grid to power next-generation AI.
The two companies signed the MoU in Seoul, South Korea, setting forth the terms under which they will jointly design and execute the delivery of new nuclear power within the private grid project.
The nuclear project will be integrated with combined-cycle natural gas, solar power and battery storage alongside data centre infrastructure capable of delivering up to 11 GW of power.
Fermi America said the MoU provides for the joint planning of a nuclear-based hybrid energy project, development of a detailed business package by project stage, feasibility studies, basic design, and engineering, procurement and construction projects.
Fermi America, co-founded by former US energy secretary Rick Perry, announced plans for the project, in Amarillo, Texas, in June.
The company, said geotechnical work had already begun on the Amarillo campus. The project is expected to deliver its first power by the end of 2026.
Also in June, Fermi America submitted its combined operating licence application in the US for building Westinghouse AP1000 nuclear units. The application has been accepted for review.
