Meta Plans $10 Billion New AI Data Center in Richland Parish
In a recent development, Meta in collaboration with Louisiana Economic Development (LED) has plans to establish a new AI data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana which is estimated to be worth $10 billion. This huge facility will be the largest of its kind in the data center division of Meta spanning to about 4 million square feet with construction schedule up to 2030.
Economic Impact
This project will have a lot of economic effects on the area. According to Meta, there will create at least 500 new jobs in Richland Parish while LED expects creation of more than 1000 indirect jobs. At its maximum construction, the project will require about 5,000 workers on a 2,250 acres site.
Community Benefits
Governor Jeff Landry said that the investment is a game changer for the state of Louisiana and stated that the project will help revitalize rural areas as well as create high tech jobs. The data center will power Meta’s various digital platforms such as Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads.
Infrastructure and Sustainability
Kevin Janda, the Director of Data Center Strategy at Meta said that Richland Parish has adequate infrastructure, a strong power system, and a business-friendly environment. The company aims at procuring labour and materials within the local market and collaborate with educational institutions to enhance STEAM education and digital skills. Entergy will help the project by adding more effective and clean power plants in order to satisfy the increasing energy requirements.
Environmental Commitment
Meta has vowed to pair every unit of electricity it consumes with 100 percent renewable energy and has agreed to collaborate with Entergy in order to add at least 1,500 MW of new renewable energy under the Geaux Zero initiative. Also, Meta has offered to pay between $250,000 and $1 million a year to Entergy’s low-income ratepayer fund.
Workforce Development
The Louisiana Community and Technical College System will also make an investment of $250,000 in workforce development at Delta Community College. This funding will increase the construction trades programs and design curricula for data center operations.
State's Position in Tech Innovation
LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois described the new Meta AI data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana as proof of Louisiana’s strategy to become an AI innovation hub. She emphasized the state’s proactive approach to economic development and positioning itself as a competitive player in the global tech landscape.
It is not only the job creation that Meta is committed to. The company also plans to make more than $200 million worth of investment in the local infrastructure such as roads and water systems. They have also committed to water conservation; they have pledged to return more water to the local ecosystems than they have taken through local restoration projects. This historic investment marks a significant milestone for Louisiana, promising economic growth, technological advancement, and new opportunities for the state’s workforce.
