Meta’s data center expansion represents an investment of more than $50 billion in the Richland Parish region, one of the largest investments in AI infrastructure in the world built in America. The project supports infrastructure projects, workforce development programs, and an energy agreement expected to save Entergy Louisiana customers more than $2 billion over 20 years, on top of $650 million in savings from a first agreement. Meta pays the full costs of the energy, water, and related infrastructure the data center uses so consumers aren’t paying the cost.
Meta’s agreement with Entergy will fund seven new natural gas-fueled generating plants, three grid-scale batteries, nuclear uprates, and other purchased power. More than $1.6 billion in contracts have gone to Louisiana businesses since construction began, and Meta has provided training to local small businesses while investing in programs connecting businesses and workers to opportunities at the site, from subcontracting pipelines to workforce development partnerships with local colleges and universities. The company has also supported funding for new equipment for the Richland Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Holly Ridge Fire Protection District.
Louisiana Delta Community College is receiving a $5 million donation from Meta to create scholarships training local residents for data center jobs, with all graduates from Richland Parish’s high schools, beginning with the class of 2026, eligible for full scholarships for any data center-related trade certificate or course. Local teachers have also received substantial bonuses, and local businesses report significant growth tied to the project’s presence in the region.
KEY QUOTES:
“This commitment from Meta puts Louisiana at the center of America’s future in artificial intelligence, positioning our nation to compete and lead globally.”
“In just two years, we’ve secured more than $150 billion in new investment by creating an environment where companies can move quickly and build at scale. Projects like this don’t just grow our state’s economy, they ensure America continues to lead in the technologies that will define the next generation.”
Jeff Landry, Governor of Louisiana
“From the beginning, this project has always been about more than building infrastructure — it’s about building alongside the community.”
“With more than $1.6 billion already contracted with local companies and thousands of jobs being supported, we’re delivering real economic impact alongside the AI infrastructure that will power the future.”
Rachel Peterson, Vice President of Data Centers, Meta
“Last year, our teachers received a $10,000 bonus, this year that check was over $50,000. It’s life-altering for our teachers and their families, and it’s transforming our schools.”
“This year, for the first time in my 30-year career, every teacher we interviewed was fully certified. With bonuses like that, the best educators come to you.”
Sheldon Jones, Superintendent, Richland Parish School District
