Google announced a $1.5 billion investment to expand its data center campus in Jackson County.
The investment will be spread across 2026 and 2027. Google has operated in Jackson County since 2018, and the expansion includes new energy affordability and community education initiatives.
"Strong partnerships between industry and local communities are the foundation of regional prosperity," said State Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston. "From funding STEM education initiatives to supporting critical energy affordability programs, Google has consistently demonstrated a deep dedication to Jackson County."
The data center campus began operations in 2019 on the site of the Tennessee Valley Authority's retired Widows Creek coal plant. Construction on this site allowed Google to repurpose existing electric lines and other infrastructure to enhance the data center's reliability and add clean power to the grid.
Google announced a $2 million Energy Impact Fund to support programs that drive down monthly energy bills for local families. In partnership with TVA and the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama, the fund will support weatherization and energy efficiency services for local schools and income-qualified households, primarily in Jackson County.
"This funding will significantly expand our capacity to provide weatherization and energy efficiency services in Jackson County, helping more families lower their utility costs and live in more energy-efficient homes," said Luke Laney, executive director of the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama.
Google also announced a $550,000 donation to fund STEM kits for children in grades 4-8 across Jackson County School District. These kits will give local students hands-on learning opportunities to develop new skills and education for the digital future.
"Sustained investment in local classrooms is vital to helping students identify their strengths and career pathways early," said Jason Davidson, superintendent of Jackson County School District. "From supporting regional robotics events to funding critical programs like YouScience, Google's partnership is helping the district transition toward high-tech, future-ready education. This collaboration ensures that local graduates have a clear, direct path to high-demand careers right here in Alabama."
Google has contributed more than $28 million since 2009 in direct philanthropic giving to Alabama nonprofits. Google employees have volunteered more than 6,000 hours with Alabama nonprofits since 2016.
The expansion will build on the hundreds of full time jobs the Jackson County data center already supports. More than 1,000 contract workers are brought to the site during the construction phase.
