Meta chooses Louisiana’s Richland Parish for $10bn AI data center

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced plans to construct a massive $10 billion artificial intelligence data center in Richland Parish, northeast Louisiana. The project, considered the largest private investment in the state’s history, marks a significant milestone in Louisiana’s transformation into a Louisiana innovation hub.

The expansive 4-million-square-foot Meta data center will occupy the 2,250-acre former Franklin Farm megasite, situated between Rayville and Delhi. Governor Jeff Landry hailed the announcement as a “game-changer” for the state, emphasizing its potential to generate over 500 direct high-paying tech jobs, 1,000 indirect roles, and employ 5,000 construction workers at peak.

Landry credited new tax reform legislation for enhancing Louisiana’s appeal to major investors, stating that Meta’s decision underscores the state’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate. The legislation, combined with the state’s efforts to position itself as a hub for digital technology transformation, was pivotal in securing the project.

Boost for Louisiana’s tech sector

Meta’s Richland Parish facility will be the largest of its 20 artificial intelligence data centers globally, supporting the company’s cutting-edge digital technology transformation initiatives. Meta’s Director of Data Center Strategy, Kevin Janda, praised the location for its infrastructure access, reliable energy grid, and collaborative community support.

State officials believe the project will catalyze economic growth opportunities throughout northeast Louisiana. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan Bourgeois described the investment as a cornerstone of the state’s broader strategy to attract AI and technology firms, emphasizing the creation of high-paying tech jobs and regional revitalization.

Sustainability and community investment

Meta has committed to a renewable energy commitment, ensuring its energy consumption is matched with 100% clean energy. The company is collaborating with Entergy Louisiana to add 1,500 MW of renewable energy capacity through its Geaux Zero program. This sustainability initiative reinforces the local infrastructure improvements planned to accommodate the energy-intensive facility.

Beyond energy sustainability, Meta will invest over $200 million in local infrastructure improvements, including roads and water systems. The company also plans to restore more water than its operations consume through targeted water stewardship projects in Louisiana.

Preparing the workforce

To meet the demand for skilled labor required to operate the Meta data center, the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) has allocated $250,000 in funding to Delta Community College. These funds will support the expansion of construction trade programs and the development of workforce development programs tailored to data center operations.

Economic incentives

The project is set to benefit from Louisiana’s Act 730 incentive program, which offers tax rebates on data center equipment. Additionally, Meta plans to utilize the state’s Quality Jobs program to further enhance economic growth opportunities and support the creation of high-paying tech jobs in the state.

Long-term impact

Construction of the Meta data center is scheduled to begin this December, with completion expected by 2030. Regional leaders anticipate the development will position northeast Louisiana as a premier destination for future artificial intelligence data center investments.

Grow NELA President Rob Cleveland highlighted the strategic advantages that attracted Meta, including the region’s flat, developable land and low-cost energy. He stated that the project “opens the floodgates for data center development in Louisiana” and signals the region’s readiness to compete on a global stage.

As Louisiana embraces this transformative investment, the project not only elevates its tech profile but also strengthens the foundation for sustainable growth and digital technology transformation across the state.