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El Paso Electric is seeking approval for a $473 million natural gas plant to support Meta's data center operations in El Paso. The 366-megawatt McCloud facility, if approved, aims to be operational by 2027 and will initially supply power exclusively to Meta.

The City Council has intervened in the application process amid concerns over future costs and environmental impact. Meta's investment in the data center has increased to $1.5 billion, raising questions about its power and water consumption.

The facility will consist of 813 modular gas generators and will be operated by Enchanted Rock. El Paso Electric will finance the construction through operations, equity, and debt, with the intent of ensuring that costs are not passed on to regular customers.