News Story Round Up 3/3/2025 – Oscars 2025 and more

Scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking map revealing vast reserves of natural hydrogen, dubbed “gold hydrogen,” buried beneath 30 U.S. states12. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about geologic hydrogen availability and opens new possibilities for clean energy exploration. The primary mechanism for large-scale natural H2 generation is serpentinization of exhumed mantle material, a process occurring when water interacts with certain rock types in the Earth’s crust34.

Rift-inversion orogens have been identified as potential hotspots for natural H2 generation, capable of producing up to 20 times more hydrogen annually compared to rifting environments5. These geological formations offer several advantages, including suitable temperature conditions for serpentinization, appropriate reservoirs and seals for economic H2 accumulations, and the potential for an orogenic “hydrogen system” analogous to petroleum systems34.

Citations:

1. https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/01/massive-gold-hydrogen-reserves-u-s-states/
2. https://hydrogen-central.com/giant-reserves-of-gold-hydrogen-may-be-lurking-beneath-at-least-30-us-states-1st-of-its-kind-map-reveals/
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11838002/
4. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr3418
5. https://www.akapenergy.com/post/study-shows-potential-for-20x-more-natural-h2-production

Rift-inversion orogens are geological formations created by the folding of rift basins, which play a crucial role in natural hydrogen generation. These structures offer several advantages over traditional rift environments:

• Colder temperatures, providing optimal conditions for serpentinization and H2 production
• Presence of suitable reservoirs and seals necessary for economic hydrogen accumulations
• Formation of an orogenic “hydrogen system” analogous to petroleum systems, including source rocks, migration pathways, and reservoirs12

The discovery of these formations as potential hotspots for natural H2 generation has significant implications for clean energy production. Research suggests that rift-inversion orogens could produce up to 20 times more hydrogen annually compared to rifting environments, making them valuable targets for future exploration and development34.

Citations:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11838002/
2. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr3418
3. https://www.akapenergy.com/post/study-shows-potential-for-20x-more-natural-h2-production
4. https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsl/geoenergy/article/2/1/geoenergy2024-002/638133/Natural-hydrogen-sources-systems-and-exploration

The discovery of vast natural hydrogen reserves, or “gold hydrogen,” presents a significant opportunity for clean energy production. Unlike other forms of hydrogen production, gold hydrogen requires no energy input for extraction, making it potentially one of the cleanest and most cost-effective energy sources available12. This naturally occurring hydrogen could play a crucial role in the global energy transition, offering a near-limitless supply of clean fuel1.

The potential impact of gold hydrogen on the energy sector is substantial:

• It could accelerate the production of clean hydrogen, contributing to environmental sustainability and aiding the global energy transition2.
• The abundance of natural hydrogen reserves may reduce reliance on more carbon-intensive energy sources, helping to mitigate climate change1.
• Gold hydrogen’s widespread distribution across various geological formations and countries could democratize access to clean energy resources34.
• The development of gold hydrogen resources could create new economic opportunities in regions with significant reserves, potentially reshaping the global energy landscape34.

Citations:

1. https://theweek.com/environment/gold-hydrogen-a-near-limitless-supply-of-clean-fuel
2. https://decarbonfuse.com/posts/a-new-era-for-clean-energy-gold-h2-s-role-in-the-hydrogen-economy
3. https://hydrogen-central.com/giant-reserves-of-gold-hydrogen-may-be-lurking-beneath-at-least-30-us-states-1st-of-its-kind-map-reveals/
4. https://www.akapenergy.com/post/study-shows-potential-for-20x-more-natural-h2-production

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has released a groundbreaking interactive map showcasing potential locations for naturally occurring hydrogen gas reserves across the contiguous United States1. This innovative tool identifies regions where hydrogen may exist in large, extractable quantities, challenging previous assumptions about the scarcity of natural hydrogen resources12.

Key findings from the map include:

• Highly prospective areas encompass large portions of Michigan, eastern Kentucky, southern North Dakota, and parts of Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Iowa, and Oklahoma132
• Additional promising regions along the California coast and Eastern Seaboard1
• At least 30 U.S. states meet the geological criteria necessary for hydrogen formation3
• The map uses a color-coded system, with dark blue areas indicating the highest potential for hydrogen reserves4

The USGS map is based on three critical geological factors: suitable hydrogen sources, porous reservoir rocks, and natural seals to trap the gas12. This comprehensive approach provides valuable insights for prioritizing future research and exploration efforts in regions with the highest likelihood of success5.

Citations:

1. https://decarbonfuse.com/posts/mapping-the-future-of-energy-hydrogen-reserves-in-the-u-s
2. https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/energy/giant-reserves-of-gold-hydrogen-may-be-lurking-beneath-at-least-30-us-states-1st-of-its-kind-map-reveals
3. https://ravnholmenergi.dk/2025/01/21/discover-hidden-energy-massive-hydrogen-reserves-found-beneath-the-u-s/
4. https://colombiaone.com/2025/01/20/us-hydrogen-reserves-map/
5. https://www.metaltechnews.com/story/2025/01/29/tech-bytes/usgs-publishes-first-national-hydrogen-map/2118.html

Located near Milford in Beaver County, Utah, the Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) is a cutting-edge underground field laboratory sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy12. This pioneering project, managed by the University of Utah, aims to develop, test, and accelerate breakthroughs in Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) technologies2. The site was chosen after a national competition due to its unique geological features, including dry granite sitting above a large pool of magma, nearby extinct volcanoes, and access to non-potable water suitable for geothermal operations1. As a “de-risking” laboratory, Utah FORGE makes all experimental data publicly available to encourage further development in the geothermal sector1.

Citations:

1. https://www.sltrib.com/news/2023/07/07/utah-geothermal-project-hits/
2. https://utahforge.com

The successful implementation of EGS at Utah FORGE could unlock vast amounts of clean, renewable energy, with the potential to provide up to 90 gigawatts of geothermal electricity-generating capacity – enough to power approximately 65 million U.S. homes1. This project has already made a significant impact on the local economy, creating jobs and fostering technological advancements. In Beaver County, the area has become a hotbed of renewable energy, with solar farms, windmills, and even methane extraction from pig farms surrounding the FORGE site2.

• The project is expected to generate 6,600 jobs during construction and 160 full-time jobs during operations
• It will contribute an estimated $437 million in earned wages to the local economy
• The Cape Station project, a related 400 MW geothermal initiative by Fervo Energy in the same region, is projected to channel $1.1 billion to supply chains and local businesses3

Citations:

1. https://www.energy.gov/eere/geothermal/articles/utah-forges-literal-breakthrough-enhanced-geothermal-systems-community
2. https://www.sltrib.com/news/2023/07/07/utah-geothermal-project-hits/
3. https://fervoenergy.com/fervo-energy-breaks-ground-on-the-worlds-largest-next-gen-geothermal-project/

The TRISO fuel pebble bed design used in the Hermes reactor combines advanced fuel technology with an innovative core structure. TRISO (Tristructural Isotropic) fuel particles consist of uranium kernels coated with layers of carbon and silicon carbide, providing robust containment of fission products2. These particles are embedded in graphite spheres called pebbles, each about the size of a tennis ball1. The reactor core is filled with these fuel pebbles, which are continuously circulated and replaced, allowing for online refueling14. This design offers inherent safety features, as the TRISO particles can withstand extremely high temperatures without melting or releasing significant amounts of radioactive material24. The pebble bed configuration, combined with inert gas or molten salt coolant, enables efficient heat transfer and the potential for high-temperature applications beyond electricity generation, such as hydrogen production or industrial process heat4.

Citations:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pebble-bed_reactor
2. https://www.powermag.com/the-allure-of-triso-nuclear-fuel-explained/
3. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Illustration-of-the-pebble-fuel-elemen-and-TRISO-fuel-particle-used-in-the-Pebble-Bed_fig1_282462554
4. https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/x-energy-developing-pebble-bed-reactor-they-say-cant-melt-down
5. https://www.usnc.com/triso/

The Hermes reactor employs a molten fluoride salt coolant called FLiBe, a mixture of lithium and beryllium fluorides, which offers several advantages over traditional water-cooled reactors. FLiBe remains liquid at high temperatures (~600°C) without pressurization, allowing for increased efficiency and safety in reactor operations12. This coolant can carry more heat than an equivalent volume of water and does not react violently with air or water1. Kairos Power has established a Molten Salt Purification Plant in Ohio to produce high-purity FLiBe for the Hermes project3. The use of molten salt coolant enables the reactor to operate at higher temperatures and lower pressures compared to water-cooled systems, potentially increasing overall plant efficiency and reducing the risk of coolant loss accidents15.

Citations:

1. https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/approval-of-nuclear-pilot-plant-that-uses-molten-salt-coolant-instead-of-water-a-step-towards-safer-reactors/4018890.article
2. https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/kairos-power-wraps-molten-salt-testing-project
3. https://www.ans.org/news/article-6254/construction-begins-on-kaiross-fluoride-saltcooled-test-reactor/
4. https://www.reddit.com/r/Futurology/comments/1ehfrej/construction_of_us_first_fourthgen_nuclear/
5. https://www.powermag.com/kairos-hermes-secures-first-nrc-green-light-for-advanced-nuclear-non-lwr-reactor/

The Google-Kairos nuclear agreement aims to bring the first small modular reactor (SMR) online by 2030, with additional deployments through 203512. This milestone-based deal is designed to accelerate the commercialization of advanced nuclear energy by demonstrating both technical and market viability3. Key aspects of the agreement include:

• An iterative development approach with multiple hardware demonstrations before the first commercial plant2
• Potential for up to 500 MW of new 24/7 carbon-free power to U.S. electricity grids2
• Focus on supporting AI technologies and meeting growing electricity demands cleanly and reliably13
• Emphasis on simplified design, safety, and reduced construction timelines compared to traditional nuclear reactors32

This partnership represents a significant step in Google’s efforts to develop a diverse portfolio of advanced clean energy technologies, complementing its existing renewable energy investments and supporting its ambitious carbon-free energy goals2.

Citations:

1. https://datacentremagazine.com/data-centres/google-taps-kairos-power-for-nuclear-energy-in-landmark-deal
2. https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/google-kairos-power-nuclear-energy-agreement/
3. https://www.itpro.com/software/google/google-is-going-nuclear

Kairos Power’s small modular reactor (SMR) technology employs an innovative design that sets it apart from traditional nuclear reactors. The system utilizes a molten fluoride salt coolant and a ceramic, pebble-type fuel, operating at low pressure to enhance safety and efficiency12. Key features of Kairos Power’s SMR technology include:

• Passive safety: The low-pressure operation and inherent design characteristics allow for simplified safety systems2.
• Modular construction: The smaller size and modular design aim to reduce construction timelines and costs3.
• Scalability: The technology is designed to be deployed in various sizes and locations, offering flexibility for different power needs1.
• Iterative development: Kairos Power employs a phased approach, with multiple hardware demonstrations planned before full commercial deployment2.

This advanced nuclear technology is positioned to complement variable renewable energy sources, potentially providing a reliable baseload power for AI-driven data centers while supporting grid decarbonization efforts13. The first Kairos Power SMR is expected to be operational by 2030, with additional units coming online through 2035 as part of the agreement with Google2.

Citations:

1. https://datacentremagazine.com/data-centres/google-taps-kairos-power-for-nuclear-energy-in-landmark-deal
2. https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/google-kairos-power-nuclear-energy-agreement/
3. https://www.itpro.com/software/google/google-is-going-nuclear

Google’s commitment to clean energy extends beyond its recent nuclear deal, reflecting a comprehensive strategy to achieve ambitious sustainability targets. The company aims to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030, a goal that requires a diverse portfolio of clean energy sources12. To this end, Google has:

• Pioneered corporate renewable energy purchases over a decade ago, setting industry standards
• Invested in a broad range of advanced clean electricity technologies, including solar, wind, and now nuclear
• Focused on developing solutions that can provide round-the-clock carbon-free power to complement variable renewable sources

The agreement with Kairos Power for small modular reactors is part of Google’s larger effort to commercialize and scale up clean energy technologies that can reliably meet the growing electricity demands of its global data centers and offices2. This approach not only supports Google’s internal sustainability goals but also aims to accelerate the decarbonization of electricity grids worldwide, potentially creating new economic opportunities in communities across the United States2.

Citations:

1. https://datacentremagazine.com/data-centres/google-taps-kairos-power-for-nuclear-energy-in-landmark-deal
2. https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/google-kairos-power-nuclear-energy-agreement/

The tech industry’s growing interest in nuclear energy, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), reflects a broader trend of major companies seeking reliable, carbon-free power sources to meet the escalating energy demands of AI and data centers. Google’s landmark deal with Kairos Power is part of a larger movement within the tech sector:

• Microsoft recently signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation to use energy from the Three Mile Island nuclear site, which had been closed since 201912.
• Amazon announced plans to build a hyperscale data center directly connected to a nuclear plant in Pennsylvania, investing $650 million in the project2.
• Oracle is exploring the possibility of integrating SMRs directly within data center sites, with CTO Larry Ellison confirming that the company has begun developing plans for such implementations1.

This shift towards nuclear power is driven by several factors:

1. Increasing energy demands: The rapid growth of AI technologies and data centers requires substantial, reliable power sources that can operate 24/734.
2. Carbon reduction goals: Tech companies are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprints while meeting growing energy needs4.
3. Grid stability: Nuclear power can provide a consistent baseload to complement variable renewable sources like wind and solar35.
4. Technological advancements: SMRs offer potential advantages in terms of safety, scalability, and deployment flexibility compared to traditional large-scale nuclear plants34.

However, challenges remain. Nuclear energy still faces public concerns over safety, radioactive waste management, and the high costs associated with plant construction and decommissioning2. Additionally, SMR technology is still in its early stages of commercial development, with regulatory approvals pending in many jurisdictions15.

Despite these hurdles, the tech industry’s embrace of nuclear power, particularly SMRs, signals a significant shift in the approach to powering the digital economy. As companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon lead the way, this trend could accelerate the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, potentially reshaping the energy landscape for data centers and AI infrastructure in the coming decades315.

Citations:

1. https://www.itpro.com/software/google/google-is-going-nuclear
2. https://www.yahoo.com/tech/google-signs-nuclear-power-deal-191007884.html
3. https://datacentremagazine.com/data-centres/google-taps-kairos-power-for-nuclear-energy-in-landmark-deal
4. https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/google-kairos-power-nuclear-energy-agreement/
5. https://www.rechargenews.com/energy-transition/google-signs-world-first-mini-nuclear-deal-in-dash-to-power-ai/2-1-1724208

TerraPower’s Natrium reactor technology represents a significant advancement in nuclear power generation, designed to address the evolving needs of the energy sector. This innovative system combines a sodium fast reactor with a molten salt energy storage system, allowing for flexible power output ranging from 345 MW to 500 MW12. The Natrium design offers several key advantages:

• Improved safety features, including passive cooling systems that can operate without external power
• Enhanced fuel efficiency, utilizing high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) fuel
• Ability to integrate with renewable energy sources, providing stable baseload power
• Reduced waste production compared to traditional light water reactors
• Compact design, allowing for easier siting and potentially lower construction costs34

The first Natrium demonstration plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming, is set to showcase these capabilities when it becomes operational in 2030, potentially revolutionizing the nuclear energy landscape and providing a sustainable power solution for data centers and other high-energy consumers56.

Citations:

1. https://capcity.news/community/energy-community/2025/01/21/terrapower-and-sabey-data-centers-team-to-invest-in-future-natrium-powered-computer-centers/
2. https://hardware.slashdot.org/story/25/01/24/0015204/bill-gates-terrapower-signs-agreement-for-nuclear-to-power-data-centers
3. https://www.foronuclear.org/en/updates/news/bill-gates-terrapower-starts-construction-of-nuclear-power-plant/
4. https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/articles/terrapower-breaks-ground-for-natrium-plant
5. https://wyofile.com/microsofts-gates-breaks-ground-on-novel-nuclear-power-plant-in-wyoming/
6. https://www.wgbh.org/news/2024-06-14/bill-gates-is-going-nuclear-how-his-latest-project-could-power-u-s-homes-and-ai

The surge in AI-driven data center energy consumption is reshaping the power landscape, with global datacenter electricity use projected to more than double between 2023 and 2028, reaching 857 Terawatt hours (TWh) by 20281. This exponential growth presents both challenges and opportunities:

• AI datacenter capacity is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 40.5% through 2027, with energy consumption increasing by 44.7% annually1.
• The partnership between TerraPower and Sabey Data Centers aims to address this demand by exploring nuclear power solutions in Texas and the Rocky Mountain region2.
• In Wyoming, the Natrium reactor project is anticipated to create 1,600 construction jobs and 250 permanent positions, potentially catalyzing further economic growth in the region34.

These developments highlight the intricate relationship between technological advancement, energy infrastructure, and local economic revitalization, as communities seek to balance the demands of the digital economy with sustainable power solutions.

Citations:

1. https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS52611224
2. https://www.neimagazine.com/news/terrapower-sdc-partner-to-deploy-natrium-plants-for-data-centres/
3. https://www.businesswyoming.com/news/p/item/58695/wyomings-first-nuclear-power-plant-in-kemmerer-will-bring-250-permanent-jobs-to-the-region
4. https://energycommunities.gov/terrapower-nuclear-plant/

The 97th Academy Awards ceremony for 2025 has concluded, and here are the winners in key categories:

Best Picture: Anora36

Best Director: Sean Baker for Anora6

Best Actor: Adrien Brody for The Brutalist6

Best Actress: Mikey Madison for Anora6

Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain2

Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña for Emilia Pérez5

Anora was the big winner of the night, taking home five Oscars including Best Picture5. Sean Baker, the director of Anora, tied a record by winning four awards6. The ceremony was hosted by Conan O’Brien at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California2.

Other notable winners include:

• Best Original Screenplay: Anora
• Best Adapted Screenplay: A Complete Unknown
• Best Animated Feature: The Boy and the Heron
• Best International Feature Film: The Teachers’ Lounge (Germany)
• Best Documentary Feature: 20 Days in Mariupol

The 2025 Oscars provided several surprises and memorable moments, showcasing the best of the film industry over the past year5.

Citations:

1. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1mngz9zreno
2. https://www.npr.org/2025/03/02/nx-s1-5307165/oscars-2025-complete-winners-list
3. https://abc7.com/post/2025-oscars-best-picture-director-actor-actress-more-see-full-list-winners-97th-academy-awards/15961085/
4. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/oscars-2025-winners-list/
5. https://people.com/oscars-2025-winners-list-11687704
6. https://deadline.com/2025/03/oscars-2025-winners-list-1236305849/
7. https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2025
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/97th_Academy_Awards

Sean Baker won Best Director at the 2025 Oscars for his film “Anora”125. Baker, who is 53 years old, served as writer, producer, director, and editor for the comedy-drama1. The film features Mikey Madison as a Brooklyn exotic dancer who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch during a drug-fueled trip to Las Vegas1. Baker’s win caps off a successful awards season, as he had previously won top honors at the Directors Guild of America, Producers Guild, and Independent Spirit Awards1. This marks Baker’s third Oscar win of the night, as he also secured awards for Best Film Editing and Best Original Screenplay for “Anora”2.

Citations:

1. https://apnews.com/article/best-director-2025-oscars-5d037ce0db30f741f616e2faa97c3fdc
2. https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/hollywood/oscar-awards-2025-winners-live-updates-emilia-perez-timothee-chalamet-demi-moore-9864090/
3. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/3/oscars-2025-the-list-of-winners-from-the-97th-academy-awards
4. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1mngz9zreno
5. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/oscars-2025-full-winners-list/story?id=119231513
6. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/oscar-winners-2025-list/
7. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/02/movies/oscars-winners-list.html
8. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/02/oscar-awards-live-updates-complete-list-of-winners.html
9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozpV7LyJ4YQ
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Baker

“Anora” is a 2024 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Sean Baker. The plot revolves around Anora “Ani” Mikheeva, a Russian-American exotic dancer in Brooklyn, played by Mikey Madison145.

The story unfolds as follows:

1. Ani meets Ivan “Vanya” Zakharov, the son of a wealthy Russian oligarch, who becomes her client2.
2. Vanya proposes to Ani during a trip to Las Vegas, and they impulsively get married12.
3. Vanya’s parents, Nikolai and Galina, are humiliated by the news and send their enforcer Toros and two bodyguards, Garnick and Igor, to annul the marriage2.
4. Vanya abandons Ani when confronted, leaving her to deal with Toros and his men12.
5. After a chaotic night searching for Vanya in Brooklyn, they find him drunk at Ani’s old strip club2.
6. Vanya’s parents arrive, and they all travel to Vegas to annul the marriage2.
7. Ani signs the annulment papers after realizing Vanya’s true nature2.
8. Igor drives Ani back to New York and returns her wedding ring12.
9. The film ends with a complex scene in Igor’s car, where Ani initiates sex but then breaks down crying in his arms12.

Throughout the film, Baker explores themes of love, power dynamics, and the transactional nature of relationships34.

Citations:

1. https://ew.com/anora-ending-explained-car-scene-11686303
2. https://themoviespoiler.com/movies/anora/
3. https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/1i49w9y/anora_movie_explained/
4. https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/anora
5. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28607951/
6. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/anora
7. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/2b/Anora_(2024_film)_poster.jpg?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi5s5zX1-2LAxUVTDABHTmIAqEQ_B16BAgFEAI