Meta Bets on Space Solar and Long-Duration Storage to Power Future Data Centers

Meta is making a major push into next-generation energy solutions, announcing new partnerships aimed at powering its growing data center footprint with innovative, always-on clean energy. The company has secured early access to a new form of energy generation that captures solar power in space and transmits it back to Earth, marking one of the first large-scale commercial commitments to space-based solar technology.

The concept behind the project is to collect sunlight in orbit—where it is uninterrupted by weather or night cycles—and transmit that energy to ground-based facilities for conversion into electricity. By extending the effective output of existing solar infrastructure, the approach is designed to increase renewable energy generation without requiring additional land or traditional grid expansion. The initiative represents a significant shift in how companies are thinking about scaling clean energy to meet rapidly growing electricity demand.

At the same time, Meta is pairing this effort with a major investment in ultra-long-duration energy storage. The company has reserved large-scale storage capacity capable of delivering power continuously over extended periods, helping to bridge gaps when renewable generation is unavailable. An initial pilot project is expected later this decade, with the potential to scale significantly as demand for reliable, carbon-free power increases.

Together, these investments reflect a broader trend across the energy industry, where large technology companies are increasingly driving innovation in both generation and storage. As energy demand from data centers continues to accelerate—particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence—solutions that provide consistent, around-the-clock clean power are becoming a top priority. Meta’s approach highlights how emerging technologies could reshape the future of energy supply, blending advanced engineering with evolving market needs.