The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) has approved a major infrastructure plan allowing Entergy Louisiana to support Meta’s new $10 billion AI data centre in Richland Parish. The agreement permits Entergy to construct modern combined cycle natural gas generation facilities – two in Richland Parish expected to be operational by late 2028, and one at Entergy’s Waterford site in St. Charles Parish by late 2029. Additionally, Entergy will develop new transmission facilities to support the data centre and enhance grid reliability across its service area.
Entergy is also authorised to secure up to 1500 MW of solar capacity through an accelerated certification process. Meta is financing much of the infrastructure, including a recently started key substation, underscoring the scale of investment transforming northeast Louisiana’s energy landscape.
Entergy plans to invest $6 billion in electric infrastructure, including a 10,000-acre solar farm, new gas plants, and approximately 100 miles of transmission lines. Carbon sequestration efforts aim to offset 60% of emissions from the gas turbines, with potential for future wind or solar expansion. Meta has pledged to match its electricity use with 100% renewable energy through Entergy’s Geaux Zero program, interconnecting at least 1500 MW of clean power.
This project is one of the largest private investments in Louisiana’s history and is expected to create long-term economic opportunities while bolstering grid resilience in a region historically underserved by major development. However, some regulators and public stakeholders have raised concerns about customer costs, future rate impacts after Meta’s 15-year contract, and environmental consequences.
