Massive power needs of Meta data center in Richland Parish are ‘absurd,’ opponents say
Meta's data center under construction in Richland Parish is expected to require roughly four times the power used by New Orleans during a prior peak period. Opponents say the project could strain the electric grid and water supply, increase pollution and raise customer bills, while Entergy says Meta's 20-year agreement will cover the infrastructure and prevent other customers from subsidizing its costs.
Meta is building a large data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana, with estimated continuous power demand of about 4,500 megawatts. Entergy has proposed a nearby substation and is seeking to fast-track plans for as many as 10 gas-fired power plants to meet the facility's needs. The company says Meta's 20-year agreement includes payment for the major electrical infrastructure and that the project will support more than 1,500 jobs.
Members of the Take the Power Back campaign are protesting the Richland Parish facility and other proposed data centers, arguing that the projects could strain the region's electricity and water supplies, pollute the air and increase energy costs for residents. Entergy disputes those claims, saying the Richland Parish center will pay its full share and additional costs, with safeguards intended to prevent other customers from subsidizing its energy use. The report also notes that some states and cities, including jurisdictions in Louisiana, have imposed moratoriums on new data centers.