Meta Turns to Space-Based Solar Energy to Power AI Data Centers on Earth
Meta has signed an agreement with Overview Energy to secure up to 1 gigawatt of electricity for its data centers from a planned space-based solar power system by the end of the decade. This initiative aims to generate electricity in space and beam it to Earth, providing continuous, carbon-free power to support the increasing energy needs of AI-driven data centers. The deal is structured around achieving key technology milestones, granting Meta preferential access to the capacity once reached. Overview Energy will collect sunlight in geosynchronous orbit to deliver power to ground facilities, following a successful technology demonstration last year. Meta also announced a partnership with Noon Energy for long-duration storage, with a pilot project planned for 2028. While space-based solar offers the advantage of uninterrupted power, its commercial viability remains unproven, with unresolved challenges such as cost and maintenance. Meta has previously supported over 30 gigawatts of new energy projects across the U.S., spanning multiple renewable sources.
