Senate Probes Meta's Gas-Fired AI Data Center in Louisiana

Meta is developing a massive AI data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana, prompting the local utility company Entergy to propose building three new gas-fired power plants to meet its substantial electricity demand. This plan has drawn criticism from environmental advocates and lawmakers, including Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who has questioned how Meta's use of fossil fuels aligns with its 2020 commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. Despite Meta's strategy of offsetting emissions by purchasing renewable energy, critics argue that relying on gas plants contributes to local pollution and undermines genuine climate leadership. Entergy defends the use of natural gas as the most reliable option to provide the constant power needed for the data center, asserting that renewable sources cannot meet these demands presently. The Louisiana Public Service Commission is currently reviewing Entergy's proposal, with ongoing concerns about transparency and the environmental impact on local communities. Meta has pledged to continue investing in carbon removal and clean energy projects alongside the data center's construction, expected to complete by 2030.