As artificial intelligence reshapes global energy demand, Meta Platforms Inc. , parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has signed a landmark 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation Energy Corp. to buy electricity from an Illinois nuclear plant. Under the deal, Meta will source 1,121 megawatts of electricity from Constellation’s Clinton Power Station starting in mid-2027 — when state subsidies for the facility are set to expire. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Constellation, the largest nuclear operator in the U.S., plans to invest in upgrading the Clinton plant’s output as part of the long-term partnership. The company is also exploring the possibility of constructing a second reactor at the site, which already has federal approval.

Joe Dominguez, CEO of Constellation, described the collaboration as a stepping stone toward future infrastructure development:

“It’s a logical place for us to talk to Meta, and others, about potentially building the next generation of assets.”

This move underscores how tech giants like Microsoft , Amazon , and Google are increasingly turning to nuclear energy to support their growing data center operations. Microsoft previously secured power from Pennsylvania’s Three Mile Island, while Amazon and Alphabet have invested in small modular reactors (SMRs). Sam Altman, former chairman of nuclear startup Oklo, recently stepped down to facilitate OpenAI’s potential partnerships in the space.

⚡️ Nuclear Energy Rises as AI Demand Booms

The tech industry’s push for stable, clean energy sources has positioned nuclear power as a key player in meeting the demands of AI-driven computing. While solar and wind remain popular, their intermittent supply makes nuclear — along with coal and natural gas — a more reliable choice for continuous operations. Meta’s energy consumption has nearly tripled since 2019, driven largely by its expanding AI infrastructure. According to environmental reports, major tech companies like Microsoft and Google have seen rising emissions due to increased computing needs. Microsoft has even acknowledged that its AI ambitions may delay its goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030.

Despite these challenges, tech executives like Sam Altman warn that without significant advancements in energy technology, the world risks falling short of the power needed to sustain the AI revolution.

📈 Market Reaction and Industry Impact

Following the announcement, shares of Constellation Energy surged up to 9.1% , reflecting investor confidence in the growing role of nuclear energy. Related stocks such as Vistra Corp. and Oklo also saw gains of up to 5.1% and 12% , respectively. While energy costs represent only a fraction of Big Tech’s overall expenses, their influence on energy markets is substantial. Their demand is driving growth across the entire energy sector — from renewables to nuclear and fossil fuels. However, large-scale nuclear investments remain risky. Southern Co.’s Vogtle nuclear expansion in Georgia faced massive delays and cost overruns, casting caution among investors. Still, Constellation’s CEO believes a major tech-backed project could be a game-changer for the industry.

🔋 A New Era for the Clinton Plant

Once at risk of closure due to competition from cheaper natural gas and renewable sources, the Clinton plant now has a renewed lease on life thanks to Meta’s commitment. It currently generates enough electricity to power approximately 1 million homes .

Constellation operates several other Illinois nuclear plants that rely on state subsidies set to expire in the coming years. Dominguez confirmed that the company is in discussions with multiple tech firms for similar long-term contracts, with potential deals expected within the next six to twelve months.

Urvi Parekh, Meta’s Global Head of Energy, emphasized the importance of ensuring the Clinton site remains competitive beyond subsidies:

“We want to make sure that this location continues to be a site where nuclear operates and it’s going to give Constellation the ability to start thinking creatively about how they could expand capacity here in the future.”

Meta has also launched a broader initiative to explore new nuclear builds, seeking proposals for up to 4 gigawatts of new U.S. reactor capacity , with around 50 responses received so far.

🔍 Final Thoughts

As AI reshapes the digital landscape, the demand for reliable, clean energy is reaching unprecedented levels. With this historic deal, Meta is not only securing its own future but also helping revive nuclear power as a cornerstone of sustainable tech infrastructure.