Meta plans to double size of Louisiana data center
Meta is more than doubling the size of its data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana, in a $50 billion project. This expansion will necessitate the construction of 10 new power plants and significant upgrades to local infrastructure. The project is praised by the governor for its economic impact, but faces criticism from consumer advocates regarding financial risks to local residents and state tax breaks.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is undertaking a $50 billion project to more than double the size of its data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana. This expansion, described as one of the largest investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure globally, is being built in one of the poorest areas of the state.
The massive facility will require the construction of 10 new power plants to supply its electricity, and could eventually use six times more power per day than the entire city of New Orleans during peak demand. Meta has committed to paying for the new power plants and upgrades to local roads and water systems, stating a desire to be a strong partner to the state.
Louisiana's governor has praised the project for its significant economic impact, projecting 7,500 construction jobs, over 1,000 permanent high-paying jobs, and nearly 1,900 additional indirect jobs. He also highlighted that tax revenue from the project is already funding bonuses for local teachers. However, consumer advocates have voiced concerns, arguing that all Entergy Louisiana customers, not just those in Richland Parish, bear the risk of the project, and have criticized the substantial state tax breaks provided to Meta. In response to such concerns, the governor is now requiring data centers to pay for their own power infrastructure to qualify for state tax breaks.