Meta Plans $500 Billion Data Center in Louisiana for AI Advancement

Former U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday that Meta Platforms, Inc. (META.US) is planning to invest $500 billion in the construction of a large data center in a rural area of Louisiana. This data center, named "Hyperion" by Meta, is part of the company's broader strategy to invest tens of billions of dollars in advancing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The investment underscores Meta's commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure and AI capabilities, positioning the company at the forefront of technological innovation.

Meta's spokesperson declined to comment on Trump's remarks regarding the data center. The project, if realized, would significantly bolster Meta's computational power and AI prowess, making it one of the largest data centers in the world. The investment is expected to create numerous job opportunities in the region and stimulate economic growth in Louisiana.

Trump expressed his surprise at the cost of the project, stating, "When they said they were building a $500 billion factory, I said, 'What kind of factory is this?'" He held up a chart allegedly given to him by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, which overlaid the data center's layout on a map of Manhattan to illustrate its vast scale. "When you see this, you understand why it costs $500 billion," Trump added.

Trump also noted that U.S. companies are now able to build large data centers because "we allow them to build their own power facilities." This comment highlights the regulatory environment that supports such massive investments in infrastructure.

The announcement comes at a time when Meta is also focusing on other AI-related projects, such as the development of AI glasses named Hypernova, which are anticipated to commence mass production in the third quarter of 2025. This strategic move aligns with Meta's vision of integrating AI into various aspects of its operations, from data management to consumer products.

The $500 billion investment in Louisiana is a testament to Meta's ambitious plans to lead the AI revolution. By establishing a state-of-the-art data center, Meta aims to enhance its data processing capabilities, support advanced AI research, and develop cutting-edge technologies that will define the future of digital communication and interaction. This investment not only highlights Meta's financial strength but also its commitment to driving technological progress and innovation.