Montgomery data center: Fueling a behemoth
The Alabama Public Service Commission has approved a new solar power and battery storage plant located in Monroe and Bulock counties. This plant is specifically designed to support Meta's 1.5 billion dollar data center currently under development in Montgomery. Alabama Power will own and operate the facility, with Dodier Incorporated, a Meta subsidiary, contracting for the generated power.
The Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC) has granted approval for a new solar power and battery storage plant, which will primarily support Meta's 1.5 billion dollar data center in Montgomery, Alabama. The solar farm, named Clear View Ranch, will be located in Monroe and Bulock counties.
Owned and operated by Alabama Power, the facility is designed to generate 200 megawatts of power. Alabama Power has entered into a 20-year contract with Dodier Incorporated, a Meta subsidiary, to deliver the electricity. According to an Alabama Power spokesperson, this arrangement is structured to protect the utility's customers from potential rate increases associated with the project.
PSC President Cynthia Alman stated that the commission's role is to ensure the project meets renewable generation certificate criteria and provides a positive economic benefit to Alabama Power's customers, rather than evaluating its location or siting. Meta's data center in Montgomery is anticipated to open by the end of the year.