Key Impact Points:
- Long-term clean energy secured: Meta will purchase 1,121 MW of nuclear energy from Constellation’s Clinton Clean Energy Center starting in 2027.
- Economic stability for Illinois: The deal preserves over 1,000 jobs, delivers $13.5M in annual tax revenue, and adds $1M in charitable contributions over five years.
- ZEC program replaced with private sector support: The market-based deal enables the plant to operate without ratepayer subsidies after 2027.
Meta Backs Nuclear to Power Clean AI Future
Constellation and Meta have signed a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for 1,121 megawatts of emissions-free nuclear power from the Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois. Starting in June 2027, this agreement replaces public subsidies from Illinois’ Zero Emission Credit (ZEC) program with a private-sector solution.
“We are excited to partner with Constellation and the Clinton community to ensure the long-term operations of the nuclear plant, add new capacity, and help preserve over 1,000 jobs. Securing clean, reliable energy is necessary to continue advancing our AI ambitions,” said Urvi Parekh, Head of Global Energy at Meta.
Economic and Climate Win for Central Illinois
The deal guarantees the continued operation of one of Illinois’ top-performing nuclear plants, which was previously at risk of closure due to financial losses. Clinton provides enough carbon-free electricity to power over 800,000 homes and employs more than 530 workers.
“We are proud to partner with Meta because they asked that important question, and even better, they figured out that supporting the relicensing and expansion of existing plants is just as impactful as finding new sources of energy,” said Joe Dominguez, CEO of Constellation.
A Brattle Group analysis found that closing Clinton would increase emissions by over 34 million metric tons and reduce Illinois’ GDP by $765 million annually. This partnership averts that outcome.
Investment in the Community and Future Energy
As part of the agreement, Clinton will expand its output by 30 MW through nuclear uprates and explore future options for advanced nuclear reactors or small modular reactors (SMRs) at the site. Constellation also pledged $1 million in community support over five years starting in 2026.
Strong Political and Local Support
“Meta is investing in our future, preserving good-paying jobs, and driving economic development for decades to come,” said Clinton Mayor Helen Michelassi.
“This partnership ensures that legacy continues – without burdening taxpayers,” added Rep. Regan Deering (R-IL).
“It’s the kind of smart, private investment that strengthens communities,” noted Rep. Sally Turner (R-IL).
“This agreement is a major win for Clinton and for our entire region,” said U.S. Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL)
“This agreement delivers stability for our members,” said Bobby Wendell, IBEW Local 51.
The Clinton Clean Energy Center, operational since 1987, is now set to continue delivering clean, reliable energy through 2047—with Meta’s AI ambitions fueling its future.
Related Article: Meta Drops Fact-Checkers, Sparks Climate Disinformation Concerns
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