Entergy Arkansas announced it will power Google’s upcoming $4 billion technology investment in Arkansas, including the development of a new data center in West Memphis.
The site marks Google’s first facility in the state.
The company plans to cover the energy costs associated with running the facility, which is expected to add over $1.1 billion in net benefits over the lifetime of its contract. The utility anticipates it will reduce electricity rates for Entergy Arkansas customers, as well.
Arkansas’ existing generation power portfolio and grid will be used to power operations, which will be supported by a new 600 MW solar project and 350 MW battery storage system.
According to the American Public Power Association, Google also has plans for a $25 million Energy Impact Fund to advance energy affordability goals in Crittenden County and the surrounding areas as a way to show its commitment to being a trusted community partner.
“We’re proud to be partnering with Google to bring unprecedented economic opportunity to Arkansas. 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 a project of this magnitude can have,” said Entergy Arkansas President and CEO Laura Landreaux, in a statement. “Entergy Arkansas is committed to powering growth and building a stronger, more vibrant future for the next generation and has found a partner in Google who shares this same vision.”
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