Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has reached an agreement with the state of Indiana for the establishment of its newest data center. The tech giant unveiled plans for a sprawling 700,000-square-foot campus in Jefferson, located approximately 825 miles from the state's capital. Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb joined Meta in announcing this partnership on Jan. 25.
The new data center, set to be constructed at an estimated cost of $800 million, will cater to Meta's global data requirements, including its artificial intelligence (AI) operations.
Construction is slated to commence in January, with a targeted completion date of 2026. The project is expected to employ up to 1,250 workers during the peak construction phase. Subsequently, it will create around 100 high-wage jobs, according to a press release from Governor Holcomb's office.
In line with Meta's commitment to sustainability, the Jeffersonville Data Center will prioritize environmental consciousness from its inception. Meta's official announcement stated that the facility will rely on 100% renewable energy, achieved through investments in new renewable energy projects. Like Meta's other data centers, the Jeffersonville facility aims to attain LEED Gold certification.
The expansion of Meta's infrastructure comes at a strategic juncture for the company, as it recently re-entered the trillion-dollar-valuation club, marking its first appearance since 2021. Meta's renewed stock performance has been largely attributed to its advancements in the field of generative artificial intelligence.
Governor Holcomb's press release outlined additional incentives provided by the state of Indiana to support Meta's investment. Meta will receive a data center sales tax exemption for the initial 35 years of the campus's operation, with the potential to extend these exemptions until 2074. Furthermore, for every additional $800 million invested at the site within the stipulated timeframe, Meta will be eligible for additional 5-year tax exemptions, up to a total term of 50 years.
