Meta Secures 20-Year Nuclear Power Deal with Constellation in Illinois

December 30, 2025

Constellation and Meta have inked a significant 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) that will supply Meta’s operations in Illinois with 1,121 megawatts of emissions-free nuclear energy from the Clinton Clean Energy Center. This landmark deal, commencing in June 2027, ensures the continued operation and relicensing of the Clinton nuclear facility for two decades beyond the state’s Zero Emission Credit (ZEC) program.

Key Takeaways

The agreement supports the relicensing and continued operations of Constellation’s Clinton nuclear facility for an additional 20 years.
It expands the plant’s clean energy output by 30 megawatts through uprates.
The deal preserves 1,100 local jobs and provides significant annual tax revenue.
Meta is securing clean energy to support its AI ambitions and 100% clean energy goals.

A New Era for Nuclear Energy in Illinois

This partnership marks a crucial step in securing the long-term future of the Clinton nuclear plant, which was previously facing potential closure. The agreement with Meta acts as a market-based solution, effectively replacing the expiring state ZEC program and ensuring the plant’s viability without reliance on ratepayer funding. This ensures a steady flow of reliable, low-cost power to the regional grid.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The Clinton Clean Energy Center is a vital economic engine for the region, directly employing over 530 people and contributing approximately $13.5 million in annual taxes. The plant generates enough carbon-free electricity to power over 800,000 homes. Studies indicate that closing the plant would lead to significant increases in carbon emissions and a substantial drop in Illinois’ GDP, impacting businesses and jobs across various sectors. The deal with Meta averts these negative consequences.

Future Growth and Community Investment

Beyond maintaining current operations, the agreement enables Constellation to explore future expansions at the Clinton site. This includes evaluating strategies for extending the plant’s early site permit or seeking new permits for advanced nuclear reactors or small modular reactors (SMRs). Constellation is also deepening its commitment to the local community by investing $1 million over five years in workforce development, social services, education, and local nonprofits.

Local Support and National Significance

The partnership has garnered widespread support from local policymakers and stakeholders, who emphasize its role in preserving jobs, driving economic development, and ensuring reliable clean energy for the region. The agreement aligns with a growing public support for nuclear energy nationwide.