Entergy to build gas plants for Meta's AI data center
- New generation and transmission projects to provide benefits for all customers in Louisiana (U.S.)
The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) has approved a landmark agreement that paves the way for Entergy Louisiana (U.S.) to move forward with major infrastructure investments tied to Meta’s new data center in Richland Parish. The approval clears the path for significant enhancements to the state’s electric grid that will benefit all Entergy Louisiana customers and prepare the system for future energy needs.
The agreement allows Entergy Louisiana to construct three natural gas plants specifically to provide electricity for Meta's massive Hyperion data center. Two of the facilities will be located in Richland Parish and are expected to come online in late 2028. The third facility will be built at Entergy Louisiana’s existing Waterford site in St. Charles Parish, with an expected operational date by the end of 2029. Entergy estimates these gas plants will generate about 2.3 gigawatts of power, contributing significantly to the center's energy needs.
In addition, Entergy Louisiana will build several new transmission facilities to serve Meta’s data center and strengthen system reliability across its service area.
“Today’s decision by the Commission is a critical step toward ensuring the long-term reliability and affordability of electric service for all of our customers,” said Phillip May, Entergy Louisiana president and CEO. “These investments will help power one of the most advanced data centers in the world and will also reinforce our grid, create economic opportunity and support a more sustainable energy future across Louisiana. Importantly, Meta is paying its share of the costs for the infrastructure needed to support its operations, ensuring that other customers are protected from those expenses. I also want to recognize our elected officials, community leaders and others who had the foresight and vision to see this opportunity through for our state.”
As part of the approval, the Commission also authorized Entergy Louisiana to procure up to 1,500 megawatts (MW) of solar resources through an expedited certification process. Through these resources Entergy takes a key step forward in helping large-scale customers meet their renewable energy and sustainability commitments while advancing the state’s economic development goals.
The Richland Parish data center project, first announced in 2024, is one of the largest economic development initiatives in Louisiana’s history. Entergy Louisiana has already broken ground on a key substation to support the facility and will continue to invest in grid infrastructure that supports growth across the region.
These infrastructure projects represent a milestone in Entergy Louisiana’s ongoing mission to build a smarter, stronger energy future for all customers – from residents and small businesses to major industrial and technology companies.
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