Story perspectives

Louisiana Approves Gas Plants for Meta's $10B Data Center

8/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Louisiana Public Service Commission approved Entergy's plan for three gas plants to support Meta's $10 billion data center in Richland Parish, with a 4-1 vote.
Commissioner Davante Lewis opposed the project due to cost concerns and absence of competitive bidding.
Meta's facility will demand 2,500 megawatts, surpassing New Orleans' current electricity usage.
Critics claim the deal favors corporate interests over public concerns regarding electricity costs and grid reliability.

History

Historical Context

The Energy Policy Act of 2005, signed by President George W. Bush, aimed to boost U.S. energy production, particularly through nuclear power. Entergy, a major utility, has invested billions in energy projects, including a $10 billion data center for Meta. This reflects ongoing tensions between corporate energy demands and public interests, as highlighted by Commissioner Davante Lewis's concerns over costs and bidding practices.

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Story summary

The Louisiana Public Service Commission approved Entergy's plan for three gas plants to support Meta's $10 billion data center in Richland Parish, with a 4-1 vote.
Commissioner Davante Lewis opposed the project due to cost concerns and absence of competitive bidding.
Meta's facility will demand 2,500 megawatts, surpassing New Orleans' current electricity usage.
Critics claim the deal favors corporate interests over public concerns regarding electricity costs and grid reliability.

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