Google is calling on U.S. policymakers to modernize energy and permitting systems to meet the surging demands of artificial intelligence infrastructure. In a newly published policy paper titled Powering a New Era of American Innovation, Google executives urge Congress and federal agencies to streamline permitting processes, accelerate transmission buildout, and expand access to clean firm energy sources—including support for advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs).
The position paper argues that the explosion in AI workloads will require a “once-in-a-generation expansion of American infrastructure” and warns that without faster regulatory approvals and energy diversification, the U.S. could fall behind in global tech competitiveness. Google commits to advancing this future through its own clean energy investments, including long-term procurement of 24/7 carbon-free electricity. It also calls on the federal government to strengthen programs like the Department of Energy’s LPO and promote next-gen technologies like advanced geothermal and SMRs as critical complements to solar and wind in powering AI data centers.
- Google urges Congress to modernize federal permitting to streamline data center and energy project approvals.
- Recommends federal support for small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) and advanced geothermal as essential “clean firm” power sources.
- Calls for expanded transmission infrastructure, with greater coordination and cost-allocation reforms.
- Supports continued funding of the DOE Loan Programs Office (LPO) to accelerate clean energy deployment.
- Highlights the need for skilled workforce development, including training 100,000 electricians and 30,000 apprentices for AI-era infrastructure.
- Endorses federal coordination of energy, permitting, and workforce policies to enable timely and sustainable AI growth.
- Warns that AI infrastructure could stall without major reforms in siting, transmission, and power availability.
“Without thoughtful policy changes, permitting and transmission challenges could slow the deployment of clean power and stall U.S. leadership in AI innovation.”
