Meta signs major deal to secure clean energy for decades

In the United States, specifically in Illinois, Constellation Energy Corporation announced a significant deal on June 3, 2025, with Meta Platforms Inc. to provide clean energy through the Clinton Clean Energy Center. This nuclear facility, which employs over 530 individuals, previously faced closure due to financial losses but was sustained by the Future Energy Jobs Act through a Zero Emission Credit program that was set to expire in 2027. Meta's involvement ensures the plant continues operations, and the agreement will allow for an expansion of its energy output by 30 megawatts. This collaborative effort is part of Meta's broader initiative to achieve its clean energy goals and is expected to preserve over 1,100 local jobs, generate $13.5 million in annual tax revenue, and provide $1 million to local nonprofits over five years. The deal represents not only a vital step for the Clinton Clean Energy Center but also aligns with Meta's commitment to supporting zero-emission energy sources. Meta's Head of Global Energy, Urvi Parekh, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with Constellation and the local community. The partnership reflects a growing trend among large technology companies to engage with nuclear energy as a reliable power source amid increasing demand for electricity to support data centers, particularly for artificial intelligence applications. Additionally, Meta's agreement supports the plant's relicensing, which is critical as the previous state funding program approaches its end. The company's actions are part of a larger movement within the tech industry to contribute to the nuclear sector, battling against the challenges posed by cheaper power sources such as natural gas and renewables. By committing to long-term contracts, companies like Meta, Amazon, and Google are providing the nuclear industry with a much-needed lifeline to continue operating and evolving in a competitive energy landscape. Through this partnership, Meta not only secures the necessary energy supply for its existing and future operations but also plays a crucial role in the broader narrative of energy sustainability and corporate responsibility in environmental management. This strategic decision may serve as a model for future initiatives across the industry as technology companies recognize the importance of clean, reliable energy sources in achieving their climate-related goals.