News Summary
Rolls-Royce Solutions America plans to invest $75 million in its Aiken, South Carolina manufacturing facility, creating 60 new jobs. The expansion will enhance production of mtu Series 4000 engines for backup generators, meeting the rising demand in various sectors, particularly data centers. The project will unfold in two phases, aiming to boost the facility’s capabilities and reduce reliance on overseas manufacturing while supporting local talent through apprenticeship programs.
Aiken, South Carolina
Rolls-Royce Solutions America is set to invest $75 million in its manufacturing facility located in Aiken, South Carolina, a move that will create 60 new jobs at the site. This significant investment aims to boost the production of the mtu Series 4000 engines, which are essential for backup generators utilized across various sectors, including data centers, hospitals, municipalities, and government installations.
The Aiken facility, situated at 660 Bettis Academy Road in Graniteville, has been operational since 2010. With the new expansion, the plant aims to support the increasing demand for high-power mission-critical backup generators in the U.S., particularly within the expanding data center industry. The mtu Series 4000 engines produced at this facility are integral components that will be shipped to Mankato, Minnesota for integration into generator systems.
Phased Expansion Plans
The expansion will be conducted in two distinct phases. Phase one will involve adding 37,000 square feet to the current manufacturing footprint, while a potential Phase two may contribute an additional 22,000 square feet. Construction for Phase one is projected to commence in the first quarter of 2026, with the goal of initiating expanded operations by July 2027. The plan has received the backing of the South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development, which approved job development credits for the project.
Enhancing Manufacturing Capabilities
This expansion underlines a notable growth trajectory for Rolls-Royce’s production capabilities in Aiken, which will enhance its machining capabilities. The plant is expected to produce more components domestically, thereby lessening its reliance on parts manufactured in Germany. As a result, this move is aligned with the company’s broader objective to reinforce its power generation business within the U.S. market.
Facility Overview and Sustainable Initiatives
The Aiken facility spans a total of 395,000 square feet and includes state-of-the-art features like an engine testing facility, office space, a research and development center, and areas dedicated to remanufacturing and overhaul operations. Additionally, the site showcases commitment to sustainability through initiatives such as a solar array and a microgrid that provides power to its administration building.
Workforce Development and Future Growth
In support of future skilled labor, Rolls-Royce has implemented a High School Apprenticeship Program at the Aiken facility, which has successfully trained over 70 students since its inception in 2012. This commitment not only fosters local talent but also aligns with the company’s vision to provide reliable, locally manufactured energy systems, enhancing energy independence and security for U.S. customers.
The demand for power generation products specifically designed for data centers has surged, showing an impressive 50% increase in sales over the last year. This investment in Aiken stands as a strategic response to this rising market need, ensuring that Rolls-Royce remains competitive and capable of meeting the evolving requirements of its customers.
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Additional Resources
- Rolls-Royce Press Release
- Wikipedia: Rolls-Royce
- WLTX News
- Google Search: Rolls-Royce investment in Aiken
- CNBC News
- Google Scholar: Rolls-Royce expansion Aiken South Carolina
- WRDW News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rolls-Royce
- WFXG News
- Google News: Rolls-Royce Aiken South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
