Meta has secured state approval for an energy deal with Entergy to build three natural gas plants that will power its largest data center, located in Louisiana. Regulators gave the go-ahead Tuesday evening.
The facilities, scheduled to be online by 2028 and 2029, will generate a combined 2.25 gigawatts of electricity. The data center could eventually demand 5 gigawatts.
The plan is stirring debate across the state. A coalition representing industrial companies such as Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Dow Chemical has argued the project provides unfair benefits to Meta, particularly in connection with a proposed 1.5-gigawatt solar initiative, according to the *Louisiana Illuminator*.
Some Louisiana Public Service Commission members worry about the deal’s long-term impact. Since the contract with Entergy spans only 15 years, critics note consumers could be stuck paying for costs afterward, given natural gas plants’ 30-year lifespan.
The Union of Concerned Scientists cautioned that projects of this magnitude frequently run over budget, and ratepayers will also cover the \$550 million required for a transmission line.
Despite announcing new renewable purchases, including 100 megawatts this week, Meta’s dependence on natural gas raises doubts about its 2030 net-zero target. Carbon removal credits may become essential to offset emissions tied to the facility.
