Fact Check: What early documents confirm about Applied Digital’s data center coming to Rapides Parish
Central Louisiana residents have expressed significant skepticism about Applied Digital's upcoming "Delta Forge One" data center in Rapides Parish. Records requests reveal details about the project's land use, water demands, and power supply, which include 96 diesel generators and 32 fuel tanks. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has already cited Applied Digital for particulate emissions.
Residents of central Louisiana are voicing strong concerns regarding Applied Digital's upcoming "Delta Forge One" data center, slated for completion south of Boyce in Rapides Parish by early 2027. KALB, a local news outlet, filed records requests with the England Airpark Economic & Industrial Development District and the Rapides Parish Police Jury to uncover more details about the project.
Documents show Applied Digital plans to develop 300 acres of a 672.52-acre site for two buildings across four phases, with the remaining land reserved for future use. The facility's water usage is estimated to be 600-800 thousand gallons daily, provided by the Rapides Island Water Association Inc, primarily for "typical office-type facilities" such as toilets and sinks. Power consumption for the initial two buildings is projected at 300 megawatts, equivalent to the annual electric load of 188,000 homes. Cleco, the utility provider, has pledged to supply all power, fund necessary infrastructure, and believes the project will stabilize rates for existing customers.
Environmental concerns are also prominent, with Applied Digital filing for water and air permits from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ). The construction includes 96 diesel-fired emergency generators and 32 diesel fuel storage tanks. The LDEQ issued a citation to Applied Digital on May 27 for "Failure to Control Particulate Emissions" following citizen complaints. The project also involves a PILOT agreement, requiring annual payments to regional taxing bodies and the creation of 200 full-time jobs. Louisiana Central CEO Chris Masingill addressed public concerns about NDAs and ongoing environmental reviews, emphasizing due diligence and the competitive nature of economic development.