Meta buys a nuclear power plant (more or less)

a year ago

Meta is paying billions to keep the Illinois nuclear power plant running until 2047 by purchasing its clean energy attributes.
The deal is a carbon accounting move to lower Meta's climate impact, not directly powering its data centers.
The financial terms are undisclosed, but the deal helps Constellation relicense the plant and secures a long-term customer.
Big Tech companies, including Meta, are increasingly investing in nuclear power due to rising demand from AI and cloud computing.
The Clinton plant was previously at risk of shutdown due to competition from cheap natural gas but was saved by subsidies.
Constellation plans to extend the Clinton plant's license through 2047, with Meta's deal replacing subsidy support.
Meta is exploring new nuclear power plants, receiving over 50 proposals across more than 20 states.
Constellation has also partnered with Microsoft to restart a reactor at Three Mile Island.

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