Google’s $4 billion data center project in West Memphis, Arkansas, marks a significant investment in the state’s infrastructure and economy. The facility, powered by Entergy using solar and existing generation, underscores the growing intersection of technology and energy.
West Memphis Mayor Marco McLendon highlighted the project’s broader implications, stating, “This project is more than just jobs, buildings and technology. It’s about the future of our city, opportunity, investment and education.” The campus, spanning 1,100 acres, is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions once operational within the next two years.
Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Google and Alphabet, announced a $25 million Energy Impact Fund to support regional energy efficiency while maintaining affordability. “We’re proud to be partnering with Google to bring unprecedented economic opportunity to Arkansas,” said Entergy Arkansas President and CEO Laura Landreaux. “Google’s $4-billion investment in its new facility, its $25-million Energy Impact Fund, and its investment in the future of our students demonstrates what lasting community impacts aimed a project of this magnitude can have.”
Andrew Marsh, president of Entergy Corp., emphasized the economic benefits for local ratepayers, noting $1.1 billion in net benefits over the life of the contract, including rate reductions. Entergy Arkansas explained that large customers like Google help spread fixed costs across a wider customer base, driving down electricity prices for everyone.
The agreement between Google and Entergy Arkansas includes investment in Cypress Solar, a 600-MW solar power and 350-MW battery energy storage facility near Pine Bluff. This marks the first time Google’s investment will directly support the construction of a solar farm. Landreaux noted, “Large industrial and technology companies are increasingly looking at our state because we offer reliable power at affordable rates, and we plan to keep it that way.”
Google’s commitment to emissions-free energy by 2030 is evident in its investment in nuclear power projects, including a recent partnership with Elementl Power to develop more than 10 GW of nuclear power by 2035. The company has also applied for an air quality and emissions permit in Arkansas, emphasizing that backup power generation would only be used in rare grid failures.
This project could reshape the data center landscape, particularly as tech companies increasingly prioritize renewable energy and grid reliability. The collaboration between Google and Entergy Arkansas sets a precedent for how large-scale investments can drive economic growth while advancing sustainable energy solutions. As the sector evolves, such partnerships may become a blueprint for balancing technological advancement with environmental responsibility.