Google invests $1.5B to expand Alabama data center

Google has announced a $1.5 billion expansion of its data center in Jackson County, Alabama. Construction will run from 2026 through 2027, with the company covering all power and infrastructure costs to comply with the US government's Ratepayer Protection Pledge.

The expansion avoids burdening local electricity rates. Google states that its funding model ensures local electricity costs will not increase due to heightened data center activity. The company is currently contracting with the Tennessee Valley Authority to add more than 300 MW of new generation capacity in the region while reducing power use during peak demand periods.

Operations at the expanded facility will eventually run on nuclear power. A 2025 agreement between Google, Kairos Power, and TVA provides up to 50 megawatts of clean power for data centers in Alabama and Tennessee, allowing Google to draw from a dedicated grid rather than local sources.

Local economic and community benefits accompany the project. The investment builds on the site's operations that began in 2018 and is expected to support thousands of construction and operations jobs, according to WHNT. Google is also committing $2 million through an Energy Impact Fund with TVA and the Community Action Agency for weatherization and energy efficiency programs.

Additional commitments include a $550,000 donation for STEM kits in Jackson County schools. State Sen. Steve Livingston welcomed the announcement, highlighting its role in workforce development and education support. Google has provided more than $28 million in philanthropic giving to Alabama since 2009 along with over 6,000 volunteer hours.

Jackson County Site Lead Thomas Gamble emphasized broader contributions. The project aligns with Google's focus on energy affordability, education, and economic growth in the region. Officials noted the expansion reinforces the area's position as a technology hub without raising resident energy bills.