Meta Powers Up: 20-Year Nuclear Deal Secures Clean Energy and Jobs in Illinois

In a landmark move to meet its soaring energy demands, Meta Platforms Inc. has inked a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Constellation Energy to procure 1.1 gigawatts of nuclear power from the Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois. This agreement not only bolsters Meta’s commitment to clean energy but also ensures the continued operation of the Clinton facility, safeguarding over 1,100 high-paying local jobs and contributing $13.5 million annually in tax revenue to the region.

A Strategic Shift Towards Sustainable Energy

Starting in June 2027, the Clinton plant will supply emissions-free nuclear energy to support Meta’s data centers and AI infrastructure. While the electricity won’t directly power Meta’s facilities, the company will purchase the plant’s clean energy attributes to offset its carbon footprint, aligning with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.

“Securing clean, reliable energy is necessary to continue advancing our AI ambitions,” said Urvi Parekh, Head of Global Energy at Meta.

Revitalizing the Clinton Clean Energy Center

The Clinton Clean Energy Center, operational since 1987, was previously slated for closure in 2017 due to financial challenges. The enactment of Illinois’ Future Energy Jobs Act provided temporary relief through a Zero Emission Credit (ZEC) program, set to expire in 2027. Meta’s agreement effectively replaces this state support, enabling the plant to continue operations without burdening ratepayers.

Under the new deal, Constellation plans to increase the plant’s output by 30 megawatts through upgrades, enhancing its capacity to power approximately 800,000 homes. Additionally, the company is exploring the development of advanced nuclear reactors or small modular reactors (SMRs) at the site, signaling a commitment to future clean energy innovations.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Beyond energy production, the agreement has significant economic implications for the local community. It preserves over 1,100 jobs and ensures continued financial contributions to local governments and nonprofits. Constellation has pledged $1 million over five years to support workforce development, education, and social services in the Clinton area.

Environmentally, maintaining the plant’s operations prevents an estimated increase of 34 million metric tons of carbon emissions over 20 years, equivalent to adding approximately 7.4 million gasoline-powered cars to the road for a year.

A Broader Trend in Tech Industry

Meta’s move reflects a broader trend among tech giants seeking sustainable energy solutions to power their expanding digital infrastructures. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have also invested in nuclear energy projects to meet their growing electricity needs driven by AI and data processing demands.

As the U.S. experiences a resurgence in power demand, particularly from the tech sector, partnerships like Meta’s with Constellation Energy highlight the critical role of nuclear power in achieving a sustainable and reliable energy future.