Constellation, the largest producer of emissions-free energy in the United States, has reached a historic milestone by securing over $1 billion in contracts with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). The contracts include the supply of clean, nuclear-generated electricity and significant energy-efficiency improvements across multiple federal facilities, demonstrating the government’s commitment to sustainable and carbon-free energy solutions.
The center of this deal is a 10-year, $840 million power purchase agreement to bring more than one million megawatt hours (MWh) of nuclear-generated electricity each year starting in 2025. This is also GSA’s biggest energy purchase ever and reflects the agency’s commitment to moving federal operations to zero-emissions energy sources. The electricity will be generated from Constellation’s nuclear plants, with some facilities undergoing operational upgrades, known as “uprates,” to enhance efficiency and ensure a reliable power supply.
According to Joe Dominguez, president and CEO of Constellation, this agreement is “another powerful example of how things have changed.” He noted that the U.S. government is joining major corporations, such as Microsoft, in supporting nuclear energy investments. These investments are aimed at extending the operational lifespans of critical nuclear assets, paving the way for a robust and carbon-free energy future.
In addition to supplying clean energy, Constellation has also been awarded a $172 million Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) to carry out efficiency upgrades across five GSA-owned federal buildings in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. The planned improvements include installing energy-efficient LED lighting and implementing weatherization measures to optimize energy use. Further, existing HVAC systems will be modernized with new controls, while electric boilers and heat pumps will replace four D.C.-based buildings with traditional steam heating. The upgraded systems are anticipated to save tremendous amounts of energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing building performance.
Robin Carnahan, GSA Administrator, described the procurement as cost-competitive and reliable energy supply solution that accelerates progress toward carbon-free goals. She added that this will also save taxpayers from potential future price hikes.
The scope of the agreement goes beyond energy supply and efficiency upgrades, as Constellation will supply power to federal agencies in five states: Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Agencies that will benefit from this include the Department of Transportation, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the National Park Service, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. These agencies will benefit from a stable and sustainable source of energy while contributing to broader environmental goals.
The energy-efficient upgrades will be initiated this month and are going to take a period of roughly 42 months. In such a period, Constellation shall not only introduce the advanced technology but also assist in preventive maintenance and training provided to GSA personnel. All this is set to ensure continued effectiveness of long-term upgrades-a source of unrelenting, ongoing energy-saving and operational efficiency.
This pioneering partnership demonstrates the federal government’s leadership in embracing sustainable practices and underlines the important role nuclear power plays in attaining carbon-free energy goals. As Constellation takes this step into history, it establishes a precedent for future public-private partnerships in furthering environmental stewardship and energy innovation.