Retail Giant Signs Long-Term Agreement for Carbon-Free Electricity
Constellation (NASDAQ:CEG) and Walmart (NYSE:WMT) have entered into a long-term power purchase agreement that will provide emissions-free electricity from Constellation’s Dresden Clean Energy Center in Illinois.
The arrangement marks Walmart’s first agreement tied directly to nuclear energy and is believed to be one of the first long-term nuclear power purchase agreements between a major U.S. retailer and a nuclear generation facility.
Agreement Covers 176 Megawatts of Capacity
Under the deal, Walmart will secure approximately 176 megawatts of wholesale electricity supply from the Dresden facility in Morris, Illinois.
The agreement includes 30 megawatts of additional generating capacity that will be created through efficiency improvements at the plant. Walmart will receive energy, capacity and associated environmental attributes through two separate 15-year contract periods beginning in 2029 and 2030.
Capacity Expansion Supports New Distribution Infrastructure
The additional power generated through the plant upgrades is expected to help support Walmart’s new technology-focused perishable goods distribution centre currently being developed in Belvidere, Illinois.
The efficiency enhancements, known as uprates, increase electricity output from existing nuclear reactors without requiring the construction of new generating units.
Dresden Facility Positioned for Long-Term Operations
Constellation’s Dresden Clean Energy Center remains licensed to operate until 2049 and 2051 following a licence extension granted in late 2025.
According to the company, the facility supports more than 1,100 jobs and plays a significant role in Illinois’ electricity supply.
Executives Highlight Energy Security and Sustainability Benefits
Management from both companies said the agreement aligns with long-term energy reliability and sustainability goals.
“This agreement reflects long-term stewardship of critical infrastructure, the communities it serves, and the energy system that powers American growth,” said Jim McHugh, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Constellation.
Walmart also emphasized the role of reliable clean energy in supporting future operations.
Shayne Wahlmeier, SVP Energy at Walmart US, said the agreement “allows us to support new operations in Illinois while advancing our strategy in a way that prioritizes affordable, reliable, and clean energy.”
Growing Corporate Interest in Nuclear Energy
The deal highlights increasing interest among large corporations in securing long-term access to carbon-free power as electricity demand rises and sustainability targets become more ambitious.
Walmart currently operates approximately 175 stores and clubs across Illinois and employs more than 55,000 people in the state.
Constellation said its Illinois generation portfolio produces enough electricity to power more than eight million homes, making it one of the largest sources of clean energy in the region.