Pranav Hotkar
West Memphis, Arkansas, October 2, 2025- Google, joined by state and local officials, officially broke ground on a USD 4 billion AI-focused data center in West Memphis, marking the tech giant’s first facility in Arkansas. The project spans roughly 1,100 acres, including server halls, office buildings, and supporting infrastructure, including a substation.
"Arkansas is a state where innovative companies can thrive, and we are proud today to officially welcome Google, one of the most innovative companies in the world, to the Natural State,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
“This new data center campus will help power Google’s search and AI capabilities, but it will also play a major role in powering our region’s economy. This is a major win for both the State of Arkansas and the City of West Memphis. Congrats to the team, including Entergy Arkansas for their excellent work on the project.”
Officials emphasized the project’s focus on AI infrastructure and energy reliability. The facility will be powered entirely by Entergy Arkansas, with Google covering all energy costs. The utility will provide a mix of existing generation capacity and solar energy while implementing load flexibility mechanisms. These systems will allow the data center to adjust its electricity consumption during times of grid stress, helping to maintain stable power for the surrounding communities.
In addition, Google has set up a USD 25 million Energy Impact Fund aimed at supporting energy efficiency programs, affordability measures, and local infrastructure improvements in Crittenden County and nearby areas. The company also filed for a Clean Air Act major emissions permit to operate backup generators, which will only be used during rare grid failures.
The project is expected to generate thousands of construction jobs over the 18 to 24 months of the build-out phase and hundreds of permanent positions once operations begin. State leaders highlighted the broader economic benefits, noting that the campus will enhance Arkansas’s role in the tech and energy sectors while bringing sustainable energy practices to the region.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, “Google’s multi-billion-dollar investment in West Memphis is one of the largest investments ever in our state and an incredible testament to the work my administration has done to build Arkansas’ energy capacity, invest in our workforce, and streamline regulatory processes,” said Governor Sanders.
“Here in the Natural State, we are providing great businesses like Google with an environment where they can innovate, expand, and invest in the hardworking people who are the backbone of our state’s economy.”
The West Memphis data center represents one of the largest private investments in Arkansas history, combining cutting-edge technology, sustainable energy solutions, and long-term economic development. Construction is now underway, with the campus expected to be fully operational by 2027.
