Meta Expands Solar Power for AI Data Centers

2025-05-23 green

Amsterdam, Friday, 23 May 2025.
Meta’s acquisition of 650 MW solar capacity supports AI data centers, adding to its 12 GW renewable portfolio, setting a sustainability example in tech.

Meta’s Renewable Energy Initiative

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced its latest renewable energy initiative, focusing on the development of a 650 MW solar power project to support its artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. This project forms part of Meta’s commitment to sustainability and enhances its extensive renewable portfolio, which now exceeds 12 gigawatts (GW) [1].

Strengthening the U.S. Renewable Energy Sector

This initiative involves two long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with the Virginia-based energy provider AES. The projects include a 400 MW solar project in Texas and a 250 MW project in Kansas [1][2]. These solar farms will provide Meta’s data centers with the necessary clean energy to power their operations, reinforcing Meta’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2030 [3].

Addressing AI’s Growing Energy Demand

The move by Meta comes amid increasing attention to the energy requirements of AI technologies, which are highly power-intensive. Reports have indicated that AI now accounts for a significant portion of global data center power demand, estimated to potentially rise significantly by the end of 2025 [4]. Meta’s solar investment is a proactive step to ensure its data centers remain sustainable as AI-driven operations expand [5].

Impact on Local Economies and Future Projections

In addition to environmental benefits, the solar projects are poised to contribute economically to local communities in Texas and Kansas. Hundreds of construction jobs and substantial tax revenue are expected outcomes, highlighting the projects’ potential impact beyond energy provision [2][6]. Meta aims to add nearly 9.8 GW more of renewable energy to the U.S. grids by the end of 2025, emphasizing its leadership in integrating sustainable practices within the tech industry [3].

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renewable energy artificial intelligence