Entergy Louisiana has received approval from the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) for a large-scale energy investment program to support the development of Meta’s data center in Richland Parish. The agreement authorizes the construction of new power generation and transmission infrastructure aimed at strengthening grid reliability for all customers across the state.
The approved projects include the commissioning of three combined cycle combustion turbine power plants. Two of them will be located in Richland Parish and are expected to be operational by the end of 2028. The third facility will be built at the existing Waterford site in St. Charles Parish, with commissioning scheduled before the end of 2029. These plants are designed to meet growing demand while incorporating more modern generation technologies.
Strengthening the power transmission network
In addition to generation, Entergy Louisiana plans to construct new transmission lines and facilities to supply Meta’s data center and enhance regional grid stability. This development aims to ensure better service quality for all Entergy network users, regardless of their size or industry.
The company states that Meta will cover its share of the infrastructure costs required for its operations. This arrangement is intended to prevent these expenses from being passed on to other users. According to Entergy Louisiana, this approach ensures an equitable distribution of investments while maintaining an expansion strategy aligned with the territory’s future energy needs.
Accelerated procedures for solar procurement
The agreement also includes authorization for Entergy Louisiana to acquire up to 1,500 megawatts of solar resources through an expedited certification process. This additional capacity is intended to meet the needs of industrial customers committed to low-carbon energy use and could encourage new business developments in the state.
Meta’s data center, announced in 2024, is one of the most significant economic development projects ever recorded in Louisiana. Entergy has already begun construction of a key substation in the region and plans to continue investing in grid capacity to support local growth.
