Facebook plans to invest $750 million to build one of the world’s most advanced data centers in the New Albany International Business Park. Powered by 100% renewable energy, the technology innovator’s tenth data center will encompass 970,000 square feet of space and will be situated on a 345-acre site. New Albany competed with cities across the country and won by putting the right elements together to attract Facebook to the business park. The city’s robust high-speed fiber optic network, triple feed electric capabilities and its technology- and shovel-ready sites were major considerations.
The center will be one of the most advanced, energy-efficient data centers in the world, featuring Facebook’s latest Open Compute Project hardware designs. It will be cooled using outdoor air and direct evaporative cooling systems resulting in world-class levels of energy and water efficiency.
“When considering a new location for a data center, we look for clean and renewable energy solutions, a strong pool of talent for both construction and long-term operations staff, and great partnerships within the local community,” said Rachel Peterson, Director of Data Center Strategy and Development. “We found all of this in New Albany.”
The company was also impressed by the city’s aggressive streamlined planning process that results in 25% faster permitting than other communities and can significantly reduce a company’s project development timeline.
“The city has worked closely with the business community to ensure that we have the assets they need to succeed,” notes Jennifer Chrysler, New Albany Director of the Department of Community Development.
View New Albany welcomes Facebook.