Aiken County, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Aiken County government officials have announced a major investment of $800 million in a new meta data center, set to operate by spring 2027 at Sage Mill Industrial Park. This initiative aims to create over 1,000 construction jobs and approximately 100 permanent high-tech positions while supporting local economic growth through the Aiken Innovation Corridor. The center will also utilize renewable energy from a nearby solar farm, marking a significant step towards positioning Aiken as a hub for technology and innovation.
Aiken, South Carolina – Aiken County government leaders gathered for the State of Our Community event at Aiken High’s Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, where they unveiled significant technology initiatives aimed at bolstering local economic growth, including a groundbreaking $800 million investment in a meta data center.
The meta data center, set to become a cornerstone of Aiken’s future, is projected to be operational by spring 2027. It will be situated at Sage Mill Industrial Park in Graniteville and will feature two expansive single-story buildings totaling over 700,000 square feet. This ambitious project is expected to create more than 1,000 construction jobs and approximately 100 permanent high-tech positions once it is fully operational.
As part of a broader plan, county officials also introduced the Aiken Innovation Corridor, an initiative designed to attract artificial intelligence (AI) and high-tech jobs to the area. This initiative not only focuses on economic growth but also aims to foster community opportunities and improve the quality of life for local residents.
Jim Tunison, president of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the strong community involvement and backing for the vision of the AI corridor. The county has worked collaboratively with various organizations to bring this initiative to fruition. Similarly, Will Williams, president and CEO of the Western SC Economic Development Partnership, acknowledged the importance of these partnerships in propelling the county forward.
The announcement coincided with a tragic event in Augusta, where a three-year-old child was fatally shot, and a woman was injured. While the community mourns this tragedy, leaders emphasized the significance of the new tech initiatives in providing hope and growth for Aiken County’s future.
State representative Bill Taylor pointed out the establishment of a cyber integration center for the National Guard, which is also viewed as beneficial for Aiken County’s development. Andrew Siders, vice chairman of the Aiken County Council, expressed enthusiasm about the substantial impact that AI industries could have on local growth and prosperity.
The meta data center project will utilise renewable energy sources, with a $100 million solar farm in Orangeburg County expected to supply 100% of its electricity needs upon completion. The journey to bring Meta to Aiken County has taken three years, and the initiative is recognized as one of the largest private investments in the county’s history, poised to reshape the region’s economy for decades to come.
As Aiken County positions itself as a major player in the tech sector, the stark contrast of local tragedies and forward-looking economic initiatives highlights the resilience and determination of the community to foster a better future.
Key Features of the Meta Data Center Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $800 million |
| Operational Date | Spring 2027 |
| Location | Sage Mill Industrial Park, Graniteville |
| Size | Over 700,000 square feet |
| Construction Jobs Created | Over 1,000 |
| Permanent Jobs Created | Approximately 100 |
| Renewable Energy Supply | $100 million solar farm in Orangeburg County |
FAQ Section
What is the Aiken Innovation Corridor?
The Aiken Innovation Corridor is an initiative aimed at attracting artificial intelligence and high-tech jobs to Aiken County, fostering economic growth and local opportunities.
What is the significance of the meta data center being established in Aiken County?
The meta data center represents a crucial economic investment, projected to create both construction and permanent jobs while positioning Aiken County as a notable player in the tech sector.
When is the meta data center expected to be operational?
The meta data center is expected to be operational by spring 2027.
What renewable energy initiatives will support the data center?
A $100 million solar farm in Orangeburg County is expected to supply renewable energy to the data center, helping to meet its electricity needs.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Leaders address Aiken’s growth at community event
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- WFXG: Meta’s $800 million data center expected to transform Aiken County economy
- Google Search: Aiken County
- Augusta Chronicle: AI plans at Savannah River Site facilities
- Google Scholar: Aiken County technology initiatives
- Post and Courier: Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative opens in Aiken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken County
- WFXG: AI in the classroom in Aiken County
- Google News: Aiken County 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.
