Louisiana Approves Power Plan for Mega Meta AI Data Center

Meta is taking a big step in Louisiana. The state has approved a new power plan that will fuel a massive AI data center. This facility will not be just another tech hub. It is designed to handle the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and digital services.

When we look at the size of this project, the scale is striking. Data centers already consume about 2% of U.S. electricity, and AI-driven computing could raise that share even more. By setting up in Louisiana, Meta is betting on a location with reliable energy resources and strong policy support.

This approval is more than a green light for construction. It represents Louisiana’s chance to place itself on the map as a future technology hub. For Meta, it means faster progress in building AI models and services that shape how we work, connect, and do business. For the state, it signals jobs, investment, and long-term opportunities.

We explore what this project means, how the power plan works, the economic impact, sustainability challenges, and why this data center matters for both Meta and Louisiana’s digital future.

Background of the Project

Meta is planning its largest-ever data center right in rural northeast Louisiana. It’s a $10 billion investment, and the facility will cover about 70 football fields. The project was first unveiled in late 2024 and kicked off construction in December of that year.
Louisiana’s appeal includes available land, lower costs, and a readiness to support big tech builds. That’s why Meta chose this spot.

Details of the Approved Power Plan

The Louisiana PSC voted 4–1 to let Entergy build three combined-cycle gas turbine plants, two in Richland Parish, one at Waterford in St. Charles Parish. The plants are scheduled to begin operating by the end of 2028 and into 2029. The plan also includes new transmission lines and fast-tracked solar energy, up to 1,500 megawatts.

Economic Impact on Louisiana

This project brings big hope. The project is expected to create nearly 500 permanent positions, 1,000 indirect roles, and close to 5,000 jobs during the construction phase.

Local stores and restaurants are already seeing growth. Economic officials say the center shines a spotlight on northeast Louisiana’s promise.
Meta’s investment goes beyond building the data center itself. Entergy’s upgrades will strengthen the grid and help serve more communities.

Energy and Sustainability Angle

The center is projected to use about 2,500 megawatts of power, almost triple New Orleans’ yearly electricity consumption. It will add at least 30% more load to Entergy’s Louisiana system.
While solar is part of the plan, the main power will come from fossil fuels. Critics worry this move undercuts the shift to clean energy.
The risk of gas prices rising and the long 30-year lifespan of gas plants, compared to Meta’s 15-year power deal, worries some observers. After the contract, ratepayers might bear more costs.

Strategic Importance for Meta

Meta needs massive power to run AI tools like LLaMA. The $10 billion Louisiana facility backs Mark Zuckerberg’s vision to expand AI operations using 1.3 million GPUs. The firm aims to lead in AI services for over a billion users.
This also places Louisiana on the map. Louisiana is now home to one of the largest AI centers in the world. For Meta, it means faster execution of chief AI goals.

Broader Implications

Louisiana’s approval marks a major shift in how states attract and support AI infrastructure. We’re seeing big tech reshaping energy plans across the U.S.
With stronger grid capacity, Louisiana may attract more projects, new research, training, and university partnerships.

Challenges and Risks

• Energy cost risks, residents worry that even a small rate rise can hurt families.
• Environmental impact, gas plants add greenhouse gases and make it difficult to switch to renewables.
• Contract mismatch: gas plants have long lifespans, but Meta’s contract is shorter. That mismatch could leave future cost burdens.
• There are transparency concerns, as some watchdogs argue the approval process was rushed and important documents remain sealed.

Conclusion

Louisiana just made a bold bet. With the power plan approved, the state gains new jobs, energy improvements, and digital growth, yet challenges remain around climate impact, equity, and long-term expenses. We from Louisiana now stand at a crossroads: will this be a path toward progress or a tricky gamble? Only time will tell.

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This content is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Always conduct your research.