The Louisiana facility would be the largest of Meta’s 20 data centers
Meta is opening a $10 billion artificial intelligence data center in Louisiana.
Construction of the 4 million square foot data center located in Richland Parish is expected to begin this month and run through 2030.
The Louisiana facility would be the largest of Meta’s 20 data centers. When fully operational, it would be optimized to support Meta's AI workloads, contributing to the advanced infrastructure that powers Meta's technologies, including Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads
"Meta is building the future of human connection and the technology that makes it possible. And this data center will be an important part of that mission," said Kevin Janda, Meta director of data center strategy. "Richland Parish in Louisiana is an outstanding location for Meta to call home for a number of reasons.
“It provides great access to infrastructure, a reliable grid, a business-friendly climate and wonderful community partners that have helped us move this project forward. We're thrilled to be a new member of the Richland Parish community and are committed to investing in its long-term vitality."
The data center, which at its largest point is more than one mile from front to back, would be powered by Entergy Louisiana, which provides electrical power to the state. Entergy is adding clean, efficient power plants to meet growing power demands, including the data center.
Meta has pledged to match its electricity use with 100% clean, renewable energy and will work with Entergy to bring at least 1,500 MW of new renewable energy to the grid through its Geaux Zero program.
Meta has also committed to contributing up to $1 million annually to Entegy’s low-income ratepayer support program. Entergy plans to match that.
Meta has also committed to a more than $200 million investment in local infrastructure improvements.
"This partnership underscores Entergy Louisiana's commitment to powering progress and driving innovation," said Phillip May, Entergy president and CEO. "By supporting this transformational investment, we are not only delivering the energy needed today, but also building the infrastructure that will support a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Louisiana. Together, we're laying the foundation for economic growth that will benefit generations to come. We could not be more proud to play a critical role in this monumental endeavor."
The project is one of the largest private capital investments in the state’s history, according to the Louisiana Economic Development Agency. Officials said the project will stimulate economic growth in the region and benefit multiple industries from the billions Meta is investing.
"Meta's investment establishes the region as an anchor in Louisiana's rapidly expanding tech sector, revitalizes one of our state's beautiful rural areas and creates opportunities for Louisiana workers to fill high-paying jobs of the future,” Gov. Jeff Landry said. “I thank Meta for their commitment to our state, and to the State Legislature for positioning Louisiana to win this project by passing new tax reform legislation that attracts capital investment and improves Louisiana's business tax climate."
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