Tempe, Arizona, December 12, 2025
Arizona State University has partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy to join the MARVEL program, which aims to integrate microreactor technology into AI data centers. This initiative seeks to address the growing energy demands of AI technologies through sustainable nuclear power solutions. By evaluating the feasibility of microreactors, ASU and its partners, including DCX USA, are committed to advancing energy strategies for the tech industry and promoting sustainability in a rapidly evolving market.
ASU Joins DOE’s MARVEL Program to Integrate Nuclear Power into AI Data Centers
A strategic partnership aims to meet rising energy demands sustainably
Tempe, Arizona – Arizona State University (ASU) has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to participate in the Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) program. This initiative aims to explore the integration of nuclear power into artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, addressing the growing energy demands of AI technologies.
The MARVEL program is designed to assess the feasibility and benefits of deploying small-scale nuclear reactors, known as microreactors, to provide a stable and sustainable power source for data centers. These facilities are essential for AI operations, which require substantial and reliable energy. By incorporating nuclear energy, the program seeks to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of AI infrastructure, paving the way for innovation that can benefit the broader tech ecosystem.
ASU’s Role in Innovation
ASU’s involvement in the MARVEL program will focus on evaluating the technical and economic aspects of integrating microreactors with AI data centers. The university will collaborate with DCX USA, LLC, a partner in the initiative, to conduct comprehensive research and provide insights into the viability of this energy solution. Their combined expertise aims to inform future energy strategies for AI applications, highlighting ASU’s commitment to fostering innovation in energy and technology.
Context and Implications for the Energy Sector
The demand for AI processing power has led to an increase in energy consumption, prompting the exploration of alternative energy sources. Previous collaborations, such as the partnership between NextEra Energy and Google Cloud, have demonstrated the potential of integrating nuclear energy with data centers to meet these needs. ASU’s participation in the MARVEL program represents a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions in the tech industry, showcasing how collaborative efforts can result in robust energy frameworks that support ongoing advancements in AI.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a leading public research institution committed to innovation and sustainability. Through initiatives like the MARVEL program, ASU continues to contribute to advancements in energy and technology, supporting the development of sustainable solutions for future generations. This initiative showcases the potential for smart regulatory environments that encourage partnership and progress, reinforcing ASU’s role as a cornerstone in Arizona’s educational and economic landscape.
About DCX USA, LLC
DCX USA, LLC specializes in advanced energy solutions, including the development and deployment of microreactor technologies. Their collaboration with ASU in the MARVEL program aims to pioneer new methods of powering data centers, aligning with the growing need for sustainable energy sources in the digital era. By partnering with academic institutions, DCX USA is positioned to drive innovation that could reshape energy usage in the tech sector, demonstrating the benefits of combining private investment with academic research.
About the U.S. Department of Energy
The U.S. Department of Energy is a federal agency responsible for advancing the national, economic, and energy security of the United States. Through programs like MARVEL, the DOE supports research and development initiatives that promote innovative energy solutions and technological advancements. This program exemplifies how federal initiatives can work alongside local institutions to foster economic growth and sustainability.
Key Takeaways
The MARVEL program is an important step in integrating nuclear power as a reliable energy source for AI data centers. ASU’s participation highlights the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the energy sector, while the collaboration with DCX USA strengthens the potential for market-driven solutions to energy challenges facing the tech industry. The program underscores the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing energy efficiency and supporting economic development, essential for regional growth and innovation.
As Phoenix continues to grow as a hub for technology and entrepreneurship, initiatives like MARVEL can help foster a vibrant economic future. Stakeholders across Arizona can engage with and support local businesses as they adapt to increasing energy demands and environmental responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the MARVEL program?
The Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) program is an initiative by the U.S. Department of Energy to assess the feasibility of using small-scale nuclear reactors, known as microreactors, to power data centers, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence operations.
What is ASU’s role in the MARVEL program?
Arizona State University is collaborating with DCX USA, LLC, to evaluate the technical and economic aspects of integrating microreactors with AI data centers. Their research aims to provide insights into the viability of this energy solution.
Why is integrating nuclear power into AI data centers important?
AI technologies require substantial and reliable energy. Integrating nuclear power can offer a stable and sustainable energy source, addressing the growing energy demands of AI operations while promoting environmental sustainability.
How does this initiative relate to previous collaborations in the energy sector?
Similar collaborations, such as the partnership between NextEra Energy and Google Cloud, have demonstrated the potential of integrating nuclear energy with data centers to meet energy needs. ASU’s participation in the MARVEL program builds upon these efforts to develop sustainable energy solutions in the tech industry.
What is DCX USA, LLC?
DCX USA, LLC is a company specializing in advanced energy solutions, including the development and deployment of microreactor technologies. They are partnering with ASU in the MARVEL program to explore new methods of powering data centers sustainably.
How can I contact ASU for more information?
For more information about ASU’s involvement in the MARVEL program, please contact ASU Media Relations at [email protected] or call (480) 965-3500.
Key Features of the MARVEL Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) |
| Lead Agency | U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) |
| ASU’s Role | Collaborating with DCX USA, LLC, to evaluate integrating microreactors with AI data centers |
| Objective | Assess the feasibility and benefits of using microreactors to power AI data centers |
| Significance | Address growing energy demands of AI technologies with sustainable energy solutions |
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