Amazon Fully Funds SWEPCO Substations, Transmission Lines for Shreveport Data Center
Amazon will fund all costs for new SWEPCO grid upgrades to serve its Shreveport data center, ensuring no rate increases for the utility’s 500,000 customers. Upgrades include substations, transmission lines and smart meters, building on SWEPCO’s replacement of 18,000 poles and trimming 1,300 line-miles to enhance grid reliability.
1. Amazon Backs SWEPCO Data Center Project
Amazon will fund all costs for new infrastructure to serve its upcoming data center in Shreveport, ensuring the utility’s 500,000 customers face no rate increases. The project is described as the most significant economic development win in the region in a generation.
2. Grid Infrastructure Upgrades Fully Funded
Under Louisiana Public Service Commission oversight, all projects — including substations, transmission lines and specialized equipment — will be paid by Amazon. Customers will not fund any project-specific improvements, preserving rate stability.
3. Grid Modernization Milestones
SWEPCO crews have replaced over 18,000 utility poles, trimmed 1,300 line-miles of trees and expanded smart meter installations since 2025. These efforts build on the new project’s planned substations and transmission work to enhance grid reliability and resilience.
4. Regional Economic Growth Prospects
Amazon’s investment is expected to generate high-quality jobs, substantial tax revenue and long-term economic growth across Northwest Louisiana. Improved reliability and capacity aim to attract additional businesses, supporting SWEPCO’s customer-first growth strategy.