Louisiana is still celebrating a major investment in the state with the announcement of a new Meta AI data center in Richland Parish. However, the $10 billion data center isn't the only investment that was announced: Meta will also be working with Entergy to bring at least 1,500 megawatts of new renewable energy to the grid through Entergy's Geaux Zero program, which will match 100% of the facility's energy usage.
The 1,500 megawatts of new clean and renewable generation would represent significant growth in Entergy Louisiana's renewable energy portfolio, which currently has just 230 megawatts of operating renewable resources. As Entergy decides how to meet this new energy need, we offer a solution that stands out for its ability to generate large amounts of renewable energy: offshore wind.
A single offshore wind project could generate 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy to power the Richland Parish data center while creating thousands of jobs for Louisiana workers in construction, operations and maintenance. If Louisiana hopes to attract more businesses like Meta, we must plan ahead to ensure that we can meet businesses' energy needs. Offshore wind provides a solution to increasing energy demand while simultaneously diversifying our in-state energy generation and capitalizing on Louisiana's world-class offshore energy supply chain.
JENNY NETHERTON
senior program manager, Southeastern Wind Coalition