Meta has struck a deal with Constellation Energy to purchase power from a nuclear plant in Illinois. This agreement aims to address the escalating energy demands driven by artificial intelligence and could potentially lead to the construction of a new reactor at the site. Meta's investment in nuclear energy highlights a growing trend among tech companies seeking sustainable and reliable power sources for their data centres and AI operations.
The deal reflects Meta's broader strategy to secure clean energy for its operations, aligning with its sustainability goals. Other tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon have also made significant investments in nuclear and renewable energy projects. Meta's initiative involves a request for proposals targeting 1 to 4 gigawatts of new nuclear generation capacity in the US, with a focus on developers capable of building multiple units to reduce costs. The company is open to various offtake structures, including power purchase agreements and co-funding arrangements.
This move underscores the critical role nuclear energy is expected to play in supporting the expanding energy needs of the tech industry, particularly as AI technologies become more prevalent. By securing a dedicated source of nuclear power, Meta aims to ensure a stable and carbon-free energy supply for its data centres, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable electric grid.
