Meta is restructuring its energy supply because AI infrastructure and data centers require ever-increasing amounts of electricity. Therefore, Meta is entering into long-term contracts for nuclear power to increase security of supply and limit CO₂ emissions. At the same time, Meta is responding to the growing pressure to expand computing capacity in a predictable manner. Nuclear energy is considered a stable baseload for this purpose. (capacityglobal: 09.01.26)
Meta and Nuclear Power: 20-Year Contracts with Existing Reactors
At the heart of the deal are 20-year power purchase agreements, as Meta buys electricity from three existing Vistra plants. These include the Perry and Davis-Besse reactors in Ohio and the Beaver Valley reactor in Pennsylvania. This allows the technology company to secure existing capacity instead of relying solely on new construction.
Furthermore, the agreements safeguard ongoing operations by providing economic support for planned capacity increases and extended operating periods. This keeps plants connected to the grid, while Meta stabilizes its supply security for digital platforms and data-intensive applications.
Up to 6.6 gigawatts by 2035: Base load for AI infrastructure and data centers
In total, the contracts could deliver up to approximately 6.6 gigawatts by 2035. This amount corresponds to the output of several large reactors, making it realistic to meet the needs of large data centers. At the same time, a low-CO₂ base is created because nuclear power produces virtually no direct emissions during operation.
This is crucial for AI infrastructure, as the training and operation of large models run around the clock. Therefore, base load is essential, while flexible supplemental power only addresses part of the problem. This also means greater planning certainty for data centers, as electricity supply remains not only available but also predictable for decades.
New Nuclear Energy: TerraPower and Oklo as Expansion Pathways
Meta is supplementing its supply contracts with partnerships for new nuclear energy technologies. A collaboration with TerraPower, backed by Bill Gates, aims to advance the development of up to eight sodium reactors. By the early 2030s, this could generate around 2.8 gigawatts of CO₂-free capacity, while integrated storage systems will buffer peak loads.
In addition, the company is working with Oklo, whose projects in Ohio are expected to provide up to 1.2 gigawatts of capacity starting as early as 2030. This remains an ambitious timeline, but the cooperation demonstrates how seriously the company is taking the expansion of its power base. This strategy aligns with a broader trend, as large cloud and platform providers are increasingly securing energy through direct, long-term contracts.
Building on Previous Deals and a Clear Priority for Security of Supply
Meta is building on a previous agreement with Constellation Energy, which supplies nuclear power from the Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois. This creates a portfolio that combines existing reactors and new projects. At the same time, it strengthens security of supply because outage risks are distributed across multiple locations.
For data centers, this means less dependence on short-term electricity markets, while AI infrastructure can continue to grow. This shifts the focus from pure cost optimization to long-term stability, because energy is becoming the limiting factor for digital expansion.