Catenaa, Tuesday, May 05, 2026- Meta has agreed to reserve up to 1 gigawatt of space-based solar energy capacity and additional long-duration storage as part of efforts to power artificial intelligence data centers using orbital and next-generation energy systems.
Space Energy Deal
The agreement involves Overview Energy, which plans satellites in geosynchronous orbit about 22,000 miles above Earth.
These satellites would capture solar energy in space and beam it to Earth as low-intensity near-infrared light. Ground facilities would convert the energy into electricity and feed it into power grids.
Meta is expected to be among the first major technology firms to secure capacity from the system. The deal targets up to 1 gigawatt of orbit-to-grid power for data center use.
The first orbital demonstration is planned for 2028. Commercial delivery to US grids could begin around 2030 if testing succeeds.
Storage Expansion Plan
Meta also signed a separate agreement with Noon Energy for up to 1 gigawatt and 100 gigawatt-hours of ultra-long-duration storage.
A pilot project of 25 megawatts is expected by 2028. The system is designed to store energy for more than 100 hours.
The technology relies on reversible solid oxide fuel cells and carbon-based storage. It aims to extend storage far beyond current lithium-ion battery limits.
AI Energy Demand
Meta said rising artificial intelligence workloads require large-scale and stable energy supplies. The company pointed to limits in existing renewable systems such as solar and wind.
Space-based solar and long-duration storage are being explored to address gaps in consistency and availability. These systems are intended to support continuous computing demand.
Broader Energy Strategy
Meta has already contracted more than 30 gigawatts of clean energy across multiple projects. This includes solar, nuclear, and geothermal investments.
Partners include firms such as Vistra, TerraPower, Oklo and Constellation Energy.
The company has also invested in geothermal projects with emerging energy developers. These efforts aim to diversify power sources for high-demand infrastructure.
Technology Timeline
Overview Energy’s system is still in demonstration stages. The first test of space-to-ground energy transmission is planned for 2028.
Noon Energy’s storage pilot is also targeted for 2028. Both systems are designed to scale alongside data center expansion.
If successful, the technologies could reshape how large digital infrastructure is powered. They may reduce reliance on traditional grid expansion.
Industry Impact
The move highlights growing energy pressures from artificial intelligence growth. Data centers are becoming major drivers of electricity demand worldwide.
Space-based solar remains experimental, but interest is rising as firms search for stable clean energy sources. Long-duration storage is also gaining attention as grids shift toward renewables.
Large technology companies are increasingly acting as major energy investors. Their commitments are influencing development in emerging power technologies.
Space-based solar energy has been studied for decades but has faced technical and cost barriers. Recent satellite and transmission advances have revived commercial interest.
At the same time, energy storage has become central to renewable integration. Lithium-ion batteries dominate short-term storage but struggle with multi-day supply needs.
Technology companies are now signing long-term energy contracts to secure capacity for future AI systems. This shift is reshaping relationships between tech firms and energy providers.
Meta’s latest agreements place it among the most active corporate investors in next-generation energy infrastructure.
