Google and Entergy Arkansas have announced a partnership for a $4 billion investment in cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure, including Google's first data center in Arkansas, to be built in West Memphis.

As part of the project, Entergy Arkansas will supply electricity from its diverse generation portfolio, supported by a 600-megawatt solar facility paired with 350 megawatts of battery storage in Jefferson County. Google will cover the full cost of powering the facility. The initiative is expected to generate over $1.1 billion in net benefits during the contract's lifetime and could help lower electricity rates for all Entergy Arkansas customers.

In addition, Google launched a $25 million Energy Impact Fund to improve energy affordability in Crittenden County and nearby communities. The fund will focus on home weatherization, advanced energy efficiency technologies, and workforce development, highlighting Google's commitment to long-term local engagement.

Entergy Arkansas has submitted the solar and battery project for approval with the Arkansas Public Service Commission, noting that it will strengthen grid reliability, enhance resiliency, and maintain affordability for all customers.

Laura Landreaux, President and CEO of Entergy Arkansas, said, "We're proud to be partnering with Google to bring unprecedented economic opportunity to Arkansas. This investment and the Energy Impact Fund demonstrate the lasting community impacts such projects can have."

The West Memphis data center marks a significant expansion of Google's AI and cloud infrastructure in the U.S., while also emphasizing renewable energy and local economic development.

Source: solarquarter.com