Inside the Energy & Water Use of Meta's US$1bn Data Centre

Meta will build its next AI data centre in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with sustainability measures forming a core component of the facility's design and operation. The project involves an investment exceeding US$1bn in the state.

The company plans to match 100% of the facility's electricity use with clean energy added to the grid. Meta already holds contracts contributing more than 1,500MW of new clean energy capacity in Oklahoma, according to the company.

The data centre will support AI workloads and large-scale digital services. Around one hundred roles will be maintained once the site becomes operational, with more than 1,000 workers expected during peak construction.

Meta will cover the full cost of its energy, water and wastewater services. This could mean the operational demands will not transfer to local consumers.

Water restoration and agricultural technology

Meta has a global target to become water positive by 2030. This means the company aims to restore more water than it consumes.

In Tulsa, the company is partnering with Phytech on a 10-year water restoration project. The initiative will introduce plant-sensor technology across around 1,500 acres of crops such as corn, soybeans and winter wheat.

This technology monitors plant conditions to optimise irrigation. The approach could help farmers reduce water withdrawal while maintaining yields.

The project is expected to save more than 50 million gallons of water each year, according to Meta. The company publishes stats for all operational facilities online.

Infrastructure investment and workforce training

Meta is directing US$25m towards local infrastructure including roads and water systems. The company selected Tulsa based on its access to reliable infrastructure and a skilled workforce.

Workforce development forms part of the plan. Meta has partnered with Tulsa Tech and Tulsa Community College to create a cross-institutional programme focused on digital infrastructure careers.

This includes a learning lab and training across technical trades like cooling simulation, fibre optics and structured cabling. The curriculum also covers AI and data analytics programming.

The programme is expected to produce more than 200 graduates each year. This could create a pipeline of skilled workers to support both the Tulsa facility and wider digital infrastructure demand.

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Community programmes in East Tulsa

Meta is linking the development to a set of community initiatives in East Tulsa, where the data centre will be located. The company is working with Eastside Rise to expand a neighbourhood enhancement programme.

This supports projects including community gardens, public art and homeowner repairs. The investments align with the planned Data Center Community Action Grants programme, which aims to improve STEAM education.

Meta says it is making annual contributions to the Public Service Company of Oklahoma's Light a Life programme. This helps families facing financial emergencies to heat and cool their homes.

Michael Gordon, External Affairs Manager at the Public Service Company of Oklahoma, says: "Fantastic announcement today in Tulsa with the new Meta data centre, which will include significant partnership with The Salvation Army of Tulsa, Oklahoma through the Light A Life program of Public Service Company of Oklahoma. We are grateful for partners who share our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve and ensuring help is available when it's needed most."