'This is what economic development looks like': Amazon to invest $12B more in Mississippi data centers

Amazon Web Services (AWS) announced an additional $12 billion investment in its Mississippi data center projects, more than doubling its initial $10 billion commitment. This brings Amazon's total planned capital investment in the state to $25 billion, with projections of over 2,000 jobs upon completion. The expansion includes an $11 billion extension of operations in Ridgeland and a $1 billion establishment of a data center presence in Clinton, with an additional presence also being developed in Vicksburg. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves praised the investment, emphasizing economic development as a "team sport" and highlighting data centers as the "backbone of the digital economy." Joey Deason, Executive Director of the Madison County Economic Development Association, commended the local companies and workers contributing to the construction phase, which is expected to generate over $30 million in local hotel and restaurant spending. Addressing common criticisms, Amazon Web Services Vice President of Economic Development Roger Wehner stated the projects would be "water-friendly." He noted that the Clinton data center would use no water, Canton's water would be recycled, and Ridgeland's facility would only use water for 9% of the year. Entergy Mississippi President and CEO Haley Fisackerly countered concerns about skyrocketing utility bills, explaining that Amazon's large customer status would allow Entergy to invest in grid upgrades and share costs, ultimately saving Mississippi customers over $2 billion on power bills. Beyond infrastructure, Amazon is also focusing on community investment through STEM education. The company is launching "Think Big" corners in Canton schools and a "We Build it Better" campaign to provide STEM education to 10,000 students across central Mississippi. Collaborations with community colleges and universities, including a successful Amazon-backed apprenticeship program with a 70% employment rate, have already trained over 6,500 Mississippians for data center careers. Additionally, Amazon is partnering with the nonprofit Extra Table to provide 17 free deliveries to 66 food pantries across the state.