First AI-optimized Meta data center in nation opens in Temple TX
Meta has launched its first AI-optimized data center in the United States in Temple, Texas, representing a $1.2 billion investment. The facility, which opened in July 2026, aims to support growing AI demands while company officials highlight its economic benefits and sustainability efforts regarding energy and water use.
Meta officially opened its first AI-optimized data center in the U.S. in Temple, Texas, on July 22, 2026, following a $1.2 billion investment. The facility is designed to meet increasing artificial intelligence demands and has created nearly 100 jobs since construction began in 2022, which peaked at 1,200 trade workers. Local, state, and Meta officials, including Temple Mayor Tim Davis and Meta Director of Global Economic Development Bradley Davis, celebrated the launch, emphasizing the project's economic and community impacts.
During the opening, Meta officials highlighted their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Bradley Davis announced over $400,000 in grants for mobile STEM learning labs in local schools, including Temple and Belton Independent School Districts, adding to the $1.7 million already provided to Bell County nonprofits and schools. Temple College President Christy Ponce noted that the partnership will expand AI education opportunities, including free classes for residents.
Addressing common concerns about data center resource consumption, Meta stressed its focus on environmental stewardship. Bradley Davis explained that the Temple facility features denser server racks, a smaller footprint, and incorporates both air and liquid-cooled systems. He stated that the water-efficient, closed-loop liquid-cooling system uses zero water for most of the year and that the total annual water usage is less than a local golf course. Meta aims to be "water positive" by 2030 and supports a Central Texas conservation project returning 5.2 million gallons to the region.
For electricity, Meta partners with energy developers to add clean power to the grid, rather than owning facilities, and has collaborated with Oncor Electric on infrastructure upgrades. The company supports over 40 Texas projects, adding 9,000 megawatts of renewable energy to offset its demand, and is committed to operating on 100% clean energy without passing additional costs to consumers. The facility's cooling system, which uses dry coolers, requires slightly more electricity but significantly reduces water consumption, and the sound imprint is contained within the building.