Meta has announced that it will build a $10 billion artificial intelligence data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana.
In total, the project will span four million square feet on 2,250 acres. The parent of Facebook estimates that the technology hub will create 1,000 indirect and 500 direct new employment opportunities. Plus, it is anticipated that there will be 5,000 construction workers at the project's peak.
Meta has tapped Entergy to lead the energy needs for the site that's located between the towns of Rayville and Delhi. The utility firm will be responsible for implementing efficient and clean power plants around the data center. Entergy said in a statement that it plans to add at least 1,500 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy, which Meta "pledged" to match by 100 percent.
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To support the construction and operation efforts, the Louisiana Community and Technical College System is sending $250,000 to the Delta Community College, which will help expand capacity and develop programs. Also, Meta has committed to pour more than $200 million into infrastructure upgrades. In addition, the tech giant expects to benefit from the Louisiana incentive program, which provides eligible data center projects tax rebates.
According to Entergy, the $10 billion initiative is one of the largest private capital commitments in The Pelican State's history.
“This project will create a transformational change for the residents of the entire Northeast Region,” Grow NELA President and CEO Rob Cleveland said.
“Meta chose northeast Louisiana because of the availability of reliable, low-cost energy; access to flat, developable land and a business-friendly environment led by Governor Landry. This project opens the floodgates for data center development in Louisiana, and we are prepared for what’s ahead.”
The move represents an opportunity for Meta to expand into a growing industry. Data Center demand is expected to double by 2030 thanks to the growing need for AI, according to a report from Newmark.
The latest facility for Meta is set to be the largest of its more than 20 globally.
Plus, other major tech firms are seeing the upside in the industry. Oracle said earlier this year that it would pour $10 billion to expand its data center footprint.
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