Aiken County, South Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Meta Platforms has revealed plans to invest approximately $800 million in a new data center in Aiken County, South Carolina. The facility, located in Sage Mill Industrial Park, will span over 700,000 square feet and is expected to generate over 1,000 construction jobs and around 100 permanent high-tech positions once operational. The project emphasizes sustainability with a partnership for energy supply from Aiken Electric Cooperative and a proposed solar farm to meet energy demands, marking a significant investment in the local economy.
Aiken, South Carolina Welcomes $800 Million Data Center Project from Meta
Meta Platforms has announced plans to construct a new data center in Aiken County, South Carolina, with an investment estimated at approximately $800 million. This facility will be built in the Sage Mill Industrial Park, located in Graniteville, and is scheduled to open by 2027.
The upcoming data center will consist of two single-story buildings that total more than 700,000 square feet in size. The construction phase of the project is anticipated to generate over 1,000 construction jobs at its peak, significantly boosting local employment opportunities. Once operational, the facility is expected to create around 100 permanent, high-tech positions.
At a recent Rotary Club meeting, Meta’s community development regional manager highlighted key reasons for selecting Aiken County for this significant investment. These factors include affordable land and construction costs, a pro-business climate, streamlined development approvals, and the availability of a shovel-ready site. Additionally, the area’s proximity to commercial airports and local universities was considered advantageous, along with the presence of technical engineering talent.
Energy Sustainability and Partnerships
Meta emphasized the necessity of a reliable, low-cost electricity supply for its data center, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability and the use of 100% clean energy. In line with these goals, a partnership has been established with Aiken Electric Cooperative to meet energy needs.
A $100 million solar farm, co-developed by Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative, is also planned in Orangeburg County to support the energy requirements of the data center. This solar initiative aligns with Meta’s objectives for renewable energy sourcing, which includes sourcing energy from 100% clean projects that will match the energy demand of the facility.
Transformative Impact on the Local Economy
This project represents one of the largest private investments in Aiken County’s history and is expected to be transformative for the region’s economy. Efforts are also underway through community initiatives, such as the AI Corridor vision launched by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, which aims to entice startups and tech companies to the area and further diversify employment opportunities.
With the establishment of this data center, South Carolina is showcasing its competitive edge for tech companies considering where to set up operations, thus enhancing its position as an attractive location for technology investment.
Key Features of Meta’s Data Center Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | $800 million |
| Location | Sage Mill Industrial Park, Graniteville |
| Size | Over 700,000 square feet |
| Construction Jobs Created | Over 1,000 at peak |
| Permanent Jobs Created | Around 100 high-tech positions |
| Completion Year | 2027 |
| Energy Supply Support | Partnership with Aiken Electric Cooperative |
| Renewable Energy Initiative | $100 million solar farm |
| Economic Impact | Transformative for Aiken County |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment for Meta’s data center in Aiken County?
The total investment for the data center is approximately $800 million.
When is the data center expected to be operational?
The data center is expected to be operational by 2027.
How many jobs will be created by the construction and operation of the data center?
The project will create over 1,000 construction jobs at its peak and approximately 100 permanent high-tech positions once operational.
What energy sources will power the data center?
The data center will rely on a low-cost electricity supply supported by a partnership with Aiken Electric Cooperative and will utilize energy from a $100 million solar farm.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bridge Replacement Projects Begin in Aiken County
Limited Cyber Incident at Bridgestone Americas Facility
Aiken City Council Allocates Surplus Funds for Infrastructure Improvements
Aiken County Schools Enhance Security and Facilities
Aiken County Planning Commission Denies New Neighborhood Development
New Solar Farm Planned for Orangeburg County, South Carolina
Aiken County Prepares for Fall Events
Aiken County Unveils $800 Million Meta Data Center Investment
Silicon Ranch Partners with Central Electric to Develop Solar Facility in Orangeburg County
Aiken Unveils Innovation Corridor to Drive Economic Growth
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Meta’s $800 Million Data Center Expected to Transform Aiken County Economy
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Meta Data Center
- WRDW: $100M Solar Farm to Help Power Meta Data Center
- Data Center Dynamics: Meta Signs 100MW Solar Supply Deal
- Wikipedia: Data Center
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.
