Meta Plans $5 Billion AI Data Center in Louisiana

Meta Platforms has announced plans to construct a $5 billion artificial intelligence data center in Holly Ridge, Louisiana, which is expected to create between 300 and 500 permanent jobs with an average salary of $82,000. The project, referred to as 'Project Sucre,' will be built on the Franklin Farms Megasite and will require significant power supply, prompting Entergy to seek approval for three new natural gas power plants. These plants will cost an estimated $3.2 billion and are intended to support the facility's energy needs. Louisiana's favorable regulatory environment and low electricity rates are attracting major tech investments, with this being the largest such project proposed in the state to date. The Louisiana Public Service Commission is set to review Entergy's proposal soon, which is crucial for the project's progression. The economic impact of the data center could further position Louisiana as a significant hub for technology infrastructure.