Google Bringing $15 Billion Data Center Project To Missouri

Google has announced a significant $15 billion investment to build new infrastructure, including a data center campus, in New Florence, Montgomery County, Missouri. The announcement was made by Governor Mike Kehoe and Google representatives at a community celebration.

The project is slated to create thousands of construction jobs during the development phase and hundreds of permanent operational positions. As part of its commitment, Google is also establishing a $20 million Energy Impact Fund to help reduce utility costs for Missouri households, particularly in counties surrounding its planned data centers, and to support energy efficiency programs. Google has contracted for over one gigawatt of new generation capacity in Missouri and is collaborating with Ameren to develop an additional 500 megawatts. The company adheres to Missouri's Senate Bill 4, ensuring it covers 100% of its power costs and associated new infrastructure expenses.

Furthermore, Google is partnering with the Construction Laborers and Contractors Joint Training Fund of Eastern Missouri to train over 2,300 construction laborers, including 1,500 apprentices. This builds on existing workforce development initiatives in Kansas City. In terms of environmental responsibility, the Montgomery County data center will utilize advanced air-cooling technology, limiting water consumption to kitchen-level usage, and Google states it replenishes more freshwater than it consumes through local watershed projects.

State and local officials, including Montgomery County Presiding Commissioner Ryan Poston and Department of Economic Development Director Michelle Hataway, lauded the investment for its potential to drive economic growth, expand the tax base, and provide long-term opportunities for Missourians.