Facebook parent company Meta is constructing a new data center in Montgomery, Alabama, with an investment of $800 million. The purpose is to enhance its AI capabilities and expand its data infrastructure.
The 715,000 square feet site in Montgomery will run entirely on renewable energy sources, aligning with Meta's sustainability goals.
This will be Meta's 20th data center in the U.S. and its second in Alabama, following the construction of a center in Huntsville. Governor Kay Ivey highlighted Meta's commitment to Alabama, with a total investment now reaching $1.5 billion.
Expected to be operational by 2026, the Montgomery data center will support Meta's global operations.
Meta's investment in Alabama coincides with its strategy to strengthen AI services, including new offerings like Meta AI, a chatbot similar to ChatGPT, integrated into platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp.
The company initiated its Alabama data center project in 2018, with operations commencing three years later. However, Meta temporarily halted expansion in 2022 to redirect focus towards AI development, pivoting away from metaverse ambitions.
Meta's dedication to AI is evidenced by its recognition as one of Nvidia's top customers, utilizing thousands of GPUs for training and running AI models, as indicated by Omdia research.
Brad Davis, Meta's director of community and economic development, expressed enthusiasm for the Montgomery location, citing its infrastructure, renewable energy access, talent pool, and supportive community partners.
