Orangeburg County, South Carolina, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Silicon Ranch has teamed up with Central Electric Power Cooperative to build a new 100-megawatt solar facility in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. This $100 million investment aims to supply power to Meta’s data center in Aiken County and generate over $8 million in additional tax revenue for the local community. The project emphasizes domestic supply chains and eco-friendly practices, reinforcing the region’s commitment to sustainability and economic growth.
Orangeburg County, South Carolina – Silicon Ranch has partnered with Central Electric Power Cooperative to develop a new 100-megawatt solar facility in Orangeburg County. The project, which entails a significant capital investment of $100 million, aims to power Meta’s new data center located in Aiken County. This solar facility is projected to generate over $8 million in additional tax revenues for the local community, with funds earmarked for crucial local infrastructure, schools, and community priorities.
The collaborative effort between Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative will not only support Meta but will also enhance energy resources for the 19 electric cooperatives that Central Electric serves across South Carolina. The regional demand for electricity is increasing, and Central Electric is committed to meeting that demand safely and responsibly.
As the primary developer, Silicon Ranch will handle the financing, construction, ownership, and operation of the solar facility. The operational integration will occur alongside Santee Cooper, the designated system balancing authority. Central Electric Power Cooperative plans to acquire electricity produced by the solar farm, which will be a part of their comprehensive statewide energy portfolio.
In alignment with their investment, Meta will be the recipient of all renewable energy credits from the output of the facility. Both the solar farm and Meta’s data center are expected to begin operations in 2027, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy collaboration.
Silicon Ranch is recognized nationally as a prominent independent solar developer and operator, and this project represents their 18th partnership with Meta. In addition to producing clean energy, the facility will also incorporate environmentally friendly practices by integrating pollinator habitats and native grasses with the solar arrays, as part of Silicon Ranch’s Regenerative Energy program.
The project places a strong emphasis on domestic supply chains, as nearly all essential equipment will be sourced from within the United States, reinforcing economic stability in the solar industry. Cooperation on this scale illustrates a growing trend where energy providers and tech companies are working together to bolster sustainability measures while fostering local economic development.
There is also ongoing development near the site of the solar project, notably The Hive expansion along Martintown Road, which is indicative of a broader growth spurt in the region. Moreover, notable companies, such as Moderna, operate multiple sites throughout South Carolina, focusing on innovative research and development, displaying the state’s robust economic landscape.
The solar facility not only promises to empower the new data center but also aims to generate a lasting positive impact on the community through job creation and improved local infrastructure. As both projects progress toward 2027, the collaborative efforts by Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative reinforce the importance of sustainable energy solutions in supporting the rapidly evolving demands of modern technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary goal of the solar facility being developed?
The primary goal of the solar facility is to generate renewable energy to power Meta’s new data center in Aiken County, South Carolina.
How much tax revenue is expected to be generated by the project?
The project is anticipated to generate over $8 million in additional tax revenues, which will be allocated towards local infrastructure, schools, and other community needs.
When are the solar facility and Meta’s data center expected to begin operations?
Both the solar facility and Meta’s data center are scheduled to commence operations in 2027.
What will Silicon Ranch do in relation to the solar facility?
Silicon Ranch will finance, construct, own, and operate the solar facility while working with Santee Cooper as the balancing authority.
Key Features of the Solar Facility Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Orangeburg County, South Carolina |
| Investment Amount | $100 million |
| Projected Tax Revenue | Over $8 million |
| Energy Capacity | 100 megawatts |
| Key Partnerships | Silicon Ranch, Central Electric Power Cooperative, Meta |
| Environmental Initiatives | Pollinator habitats, deep-rooted grasses |
| Operation Start Year | 2027 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WISTV: New $100M Solar Farm Coming to Orangeburg County
- Wikipedia: Solar Energy
- Power Technology: Solar Farm to Power Meta Data Centre
- Google Search: Meta Data Centers
- WRDW: $100M Solar Farm to Help Power Meta Data Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Renewable Energy
- Data Centre Magazine: Meta Backing Solar in SC
- Google Scholar: Solar Power Projects
- POWER Magazine: Solar Farm to Power Meta Data Center
- Google News: South Carolina Solar Farms
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.
