The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) has officially approved the energy project submitted by Entergy Louisiana, which will allow it to move forward with a number of key works to support the new data center in Meta’s new data center in Richland Parish.
Three plants and transmission network for Meta data center
The plan calls for the construction of three new generation plants with natural gas turbines. natural gas turbines combined cycle natural gas turbine power plants. Two of these units will be located in Richland Parish, while the third will be installed at the existing Waterford facility in St. Charles.
They are expected to come on line between 2028 and 2029, significantly expanding Entergy’s generation capacity.
In addition, the project includes the installation of new transmission lines and substations to ensure system stability and supply the huge electricity demand of the data center. These investments will also benefit other users by strengthening the regional power grid.
Cost-sharing and commitment to renewable energy
A key part of the agreement involves Meta covering the costs related to the infrastructure required for its data center, which protects Entergy’s other customers from incurring additional expenses.
In parallel, Entergy Louisiana received authorization to purchase up to 1,500 megawatts of solar solar energy through an accelerated procedure. This measure seeks to offer large customers access to renewable sources, promoting a transition to a cleaner energy system.
Approval of the project generated divided opinions. While most LPSC commissioners supported the proposal for its potential for economic development and supply enhancement, some community and environmental groups expressed concerns about the climate impact of using gas turbines.
Despite this, Entergy reaffirmed its commitment to a resilient and diversified infrastructure. According to the company, the project is part of the “Louisiana 100” plan, an initiative that seeks to strengthen the electric grid, foster growth and ensure affordable rates.
Source: Entergy Louisiana
Photo: Meta
