Ensures 1,121 MW of carbon-free energy through 2047 — replacing public subsidies with private investment.
Preserves 1,100 jobs and $13.5M in annual local tax revenue — safeguarding economic stability in central Illinois.
Expands Clinton’s output by 30 MW and enables future development of advanced nuclear technologies.
Constellation and Meta have signed a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to secure 1,121 megawatts of carbon-free energy from the Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois, beginning June 2027. This private-market solution enables long-term operation of the high-performing nuclear plant after the expiration of the state’s Zero Emission Credit (ZEC) program.
“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. “Sometimes the most important part of our journey forward is to stop taking steps backwards.”
The PPA guarantees stable, emissions-free energy to power Meta’s regional operations and supports its broader goal of matching 100% of electricity use with clean energy. The agreement also allows for a 30 MW uprate at Clinton and sets the stage for potential future expansion, including advanced nuclear reactors or small modular reactors (SMRs).
“Securing clean, reliable energy is necessary to continue advancing our AI ambitions,” said Urvi Parekh, Head of Global Energy at Meta. “We are proud to help keep the Clinton plant operating for years to come.”
Without this agreement, shuttering Clinton would have triggered far-reaching consequences. An analysis by The Brattle Group estimated a 34 million metric ton increase in emissions over 20 years — equivalent to putting 7.4 million gasoline cars on the road for a year — and a $765 million annual GDP loss for Illinois.
RELATED ARTICLE: Constellation Secures Historic $1B Federal Contract for Emissions-Free Power Upgrades
Key Benefits to Illinois:
Retains 530+ direct jobs, 1,100 total local jobs.
Maintains $13.5 million in annual tax contributions.
Keeps power flowing to 800,000+ homes on the local grid.
Avoids higher emissions and grid instability in MISO Zone 4.
The Clinton facility was once slated for early closure due to financial losses, despite being among Illinois’ top-performing nuclear assets. The 2016 Future Energy Jobs Act and ZEC program initially saved the plant. Now, Meta’s long-term commitment provides a market-based pathway for continued operations — without ratepayer subsidies.
“This partnership ensures that legacy continues – without burdening taxpayers. It’s the kind of forward-thinking investment we need more of in Illinois,” said Rep. Regan Deering (R-IL).
Constellation will also deepen community ties with $1 million in charitable giving over five years, funding workforce development, education, and social services.
“Meta is investing in our future, preserving good-paying jobs, and driving economic development for decades to come,” said Clinton Mayor Helen Michelassi.
As public support for nuclear power surges — now at 61% of U.S. adults, per Gallup — Meta and Constellation’s deal highlights the strategic, long-term role of nuclear in decarbonization and energy reliability for corporate America.
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