Meta is set to build its largest data center yet in Louisiana, backed by an energy deal with Entergy that includes three new natural gas power plants. State regulators approved Entergy’s proposal late Tuesday.
The facilities are projected to launch between 2028 and 2029 and together will generate 2.25 gigawatts. As Meta’s artificial intelligence-driven data center grows, its electricity demand could reach 5 gigawatts.
The plan has met resistance in Louisiana. An alliance of industrial companies — including Dow Chemical, Chevron, and ExxonMobil — expressed concerns about favorable treatment for Meta in a separate agreement for 1.5 gigawatts of solar development, according to the *Louisiana Illuminator*. The alliance was formed after corporations struggled to secure renewable power sources for their own needs.
Meanwhile, some state officials fear long-term consequences for consumers. A Louisiana Public Service Commission member noted that Meta’s 15-year deal may leave ratepayers with the costs once the contract ends, as gas plants often operate well beyond 30 years.
The Union of Concerned Scientists warned that mega-projects of this nature frequently exceed budget, leaving utility customers responsible for overruns. Consumers will also cover the \$550 million price tag for a transmission line to connect the plants to Meta’s facility.
Although Meta continues to purchase renewable energy — including a 100-megawatt addition this week — critics argue the natural gas reliance undermines the company’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. Meta will likely rely heavily on carbon removal credits to offset emissions.
