Aiken County, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Meta has announced a substantial $800 million investment to establish a cutting-edge data center in Aiken County, South Carolina. This development is expected to generate over 1,000 construction jobs and create around 100 permanent, high-tech positions upon completion in 2027. Additionally, Meta’s commitment to renewable energy is reinforced by a partnership to develop a solar farm that will power the data center with 100% clean energy. This project is poised to significantly impact the local economy and integrate Aiken County into the growing tech landscape.
Graniteville, South Carolina – Meta has announced an $800 million investment to develop a state-of-the-art data center in Aiken County, which is projected to transform the local economy and significantly boost job creation. This facility will be constructed at Sage Mill Industrial Park in Graniteville, occupying a sprawling 300-acre site and consisting of two single-story buildings covering over 700,000 square feet.
At its peak construction phase, the project is expected to generate more than 1,000 construction jobs, providing a substantial boost to the local workforce. Once the data center becomes operational in 2027, it will create approximately 100 permanent, high-tech positions that offer competitive salaries and benefits.
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is also promoting a vision for an “AI corridor,” which aims to attract technology companies and startups to the region, further integrating Aiken County into the growing field of artificial intelligence development. This initiative is expected to foster innovation and economic growth while establishing Aiken County as a leading center for AI.
Renewable Energy Commitment
In line with its commitment to sustainability, Meta is partnering with Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative to develop a $100 million solar farm in nearby Orangeburg County. This solar facility will supply renewable energy to the data center, aligning with Meta’s goal to operate all its facilities on 100% clean energy. It is anticipated that the solar farm will generate around $8 million in tax revenues, which will benefit local infrastructure and schools.
Local Impact and Economic Context
Community leaders have described Meta’s data center as one of the largest private investments in Aiken County’s history, which is expected to elevate the area’s profile in the tech industry. The recruitment process for Meta took three years, with local officials unaware of the company’s identity until the final stages. This substantial investment is expected not only to enhance the employment landscape in Aiken County but also integrate it into broader trends in technology and energy infrastructure.
Construction of both the solar farm and data center is projected to be completed by 2027, marking a significant milestone in the region’s economic development. The initiatives surrounding this project showcase a shift towards a more tech-centric economy while addressing sustainability through renewable energy solutions.
Key Features of the Data Center Project
- Investment: $800 million
- Location: Sage Mill Industrial Park, Graniteville, SC
- Size: Over 700,000 square feet
- Construction Jobs Created: More than 1,000
- Permanence Jobs Created: Approximately 100 high-tech roles
- Renewable Energy Commitment: 100% clean energy operation
- Solar Farm Investment: $100 million in Orangeburg County
- Tax Revenues from Solar Farm: Approximately $8 million
- Project Completion: Expected by 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the new Meta data center?
The data center will support Meta’s operations and contribute to economic growth through job creation in Aiken County.
- How many jobs will the project create?
It is expected to create more than 1,000 construction jobs and around 100 permanent high-tech jobs.
- What type of energy will the data center use?
Meta aims to operate the facility on 100% clean energy, supported by a solar farm being developed in Orangeburg County.
- When will the data center become operational?
The data center is expected to be operational by 2027.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: $100M Solar Farm to Help Power Meta Data Center in Aiken County
- WFXG: Meta’s $800 Million Data Center Expected to Transform Aiken County Economy
- Data Center Dynamics: Meta Signs 100MW Solar Supply Deal with Silicon Ranch
- ESG Dive: Meta and Silicon Ranch Partner for Solar Farm in Aiken Data Center
- Construction Dive: Meta Piloting Mass Timber for Sustainable Data Center Construction
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.
