Meta Louisiana Data Center Sparks Backlash Over Gas Plants

Meta is advancing its Meta Louisiana data center, set to become the company’s largest facility. To power it, Meta partnered with utility provider Entergy to build three large natural gas power plants. State regulators approved the project on Tuesday evening.

Energy Demands and Controversy

The new gas plants will begin operating in 2028 and 2029, generating up to 2.25 gigawatts—enough for millions of homes. However, the full-scale data center may further consume up to 5 gigawatts, which is in line with the power consumption of AI infrastructure.

Critics, as well as Chevron, Dow Chemical, and ExxonMobil are of the opinion that Meta is given special treatment by Entergy.A second phase of the deal includes 1.5 gigawatts of new solar development, which competitors say is unattainable for their operations.

Financial and Environmental Concerns

Regulators worry that after Meta’s 15-year contract ends, Louisiana ratepayers could shoulder costs for decades. The project already includes a $550 million transmission line funded by local customers.

Environmental advocates warn that fossil fuel-based energy for decades could undermine Meta’s pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2030. Although growth on renewable projects is ongoing and a recent purchase of 100 megawatts was made by Meta, the dependence on the sources with heavy carbon content can still exist.

Meta Louisiana Data Center: Economic Impact

The agreement introduces billions of investment into Louisiana and makes the state an AI-powered infrastructure center. Nevertheless, it also poses some questions regarding the fact that scaling artificial intelligence will undermine the climate commitments of Meta.

For ongoing coverage of AI and tech infrastructure, check AI infrastructure news or read more about Meta data center plans.