The Clinton power plant, previously at risk of closure due to competition from cheaper energy sources, was kept operational by Illinois subsidies set to expire in 2027. Constellation had planned to extend the plant's license through 2047, and the Meta deal secures a long-term customer. This partnership is part of a broader trend, with Meta and other tech giants increasingly investing in nuclear power. Meta has also solicited proposals for new nuclear plants and received over 50 submissions across more than 20 states. Additionally, Constellation recently announced plans to restart a reactor at Three Mile Island following a power purchase agreement with Microsoft.
Key takeaways:
- Meta is investing billions to purchase clean energy attributes from Constellation Energy's Clinton Clean Energy Center, ensuring its operation through 2047.
- The deal is part of Meta's carbon accounting strategy to lower its overall climate impact, although it won't directly power its data centers.
- The agreement helps Constellation avoid relying on ratepayer support after Illinois subsidies expire in 2027, replacing the zero-emission credit program.
- Big Tech companies, including Meta, are increasingly investing in nuclear power to meet the growing energy demands of AI and cloud computing.