BREAKING: A groundbreaking $1.3 billion Artificial Intelligence Data Center is set to rise in Port Arthur, Texas, as part of a major power expansion project by Entergy Texas. This urgent development comes after a pivotal meeting hosted by the Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce earlier this week, where business leaders outlined critical workforce and power needs to support this high-demand initiative.
The Chamber’s meeting at the Carl A. Parker Multipurpose Center highlighted the importance of local and regional firms preparing to compete for significant work associated with this project. “It reflects Southeast Texas industrial realities– high electrical demand, coastal conditions, hurricane resilience, and a strong, skilled-craft workforce,” stated Joe Tant, president of the Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce.
Officials confirmed that the new Entergy power plant will enable the first phases of the AI data center project to commence. The Public Utility Commission of Texas has approved Entergy’s proposal to construct two highly efficient natural gas power plants, which will collectively provide enough energy to power over 300,000 homes. This initiative is projected to create over 9,000 construction jobs and generate approximately $2.8 billion in economic activity for the region.
The upcoming Legend Powerstation, part of this development, is expected to generate $1.79 billion in economic activity during construction alone. Tant emphasized that a significant portion of this economic boost will directly support the data center’s infrastructure. The data center is planned to occupy 42 acres, with an additional 100 acres available at the Port Arthur Business Park for further development.
Moreover, the project will incorporate sustainable energy solutions, such as solar panels, and a detention pond. Tant remarked, “A modern data center is one of the most capital-intensive and schedule-sensitive construction projects in today’s economy.”
The estimated timeline for the overall project spans 18 to 36 months, with a focus on early utility coordination, industrial-grade contractor involvement, and strong safety performance. Local procurement will be prioritized to support the community, creating an estimated 22 permanent jobs and 225 construction jobs.
Travis Woods, chairman of the contractors group, noted that the data center will require a substantial portion of the power generated by the new Entergy facilities, further emphasizing the critical link between energy infrastructure and technological advancements.
As the demand for AI and data processing continues to surge, the readiness of local contractors will be pivotal. The Chamber outlined a comprehensive checklist for contractors, including civil and site contractors, general contractors, and specialized providers in electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and fiber optics.
The procurement schedule for the project spans several phases, with pre-development activities kicking off immediately. Early work packages are expected to be released within the next 3 to 5 months, while critical mechanical and life safety systems will be procured within 6 to 9 months.
This ambitious project is not only a testament to Port Arthur’s industrial capabilities but also a catalyst for regional growth. As the community gears up to accommodate this transformative data center, the Chamber urges local businesses to prepare for the influx of opportunities that lie ahead.
For ongoing updates and more information, contact the Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce at 409-963-1107. Stay tuned as developments unfold in this high-stakes project that promises to reshape the future of Southeast Texas.