Orangeburg County, South Carolina, August 26, 2025
News Summary
A new solar farm is set to be developed in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, by Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative. This facility, with a capacity of 100 megawatts, is projected to serve Meta’s upcoming data center in Aiken County. The $100 million investment will generate over $8 million in tax revenues for the local community and is expected to be operational by 2027. This project underscores the commitment to renewable energy in the state, enhancing energy reliability for all electric cooperatives.
Orangeburg County, South Carolina, to Host New Solar Farm for Meta’s Data Center
Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative have finalized plans for a new solar facility in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, which will significantly contribute to the energy needs of Meta’s new data center set to be constructed in nearby Aiken County. The state-of-the-art solar farm is projected to have a capacity of 100 megawatts and comes with a total capital investment estimated at $100 million.
The solar farm is expected to generate over $8 million in additional tax revenues that will benefit local infrastructure, schools, and various community priorities. This project marks the fourth collaboration between Silicon Ranch and Central Electric Power Cooperative, underscoring their commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions in South Carolina.
The facility will address the energy requirements of all 19 electric cooperatives across the state, enhancing the reliability and sustainability of energy services. Silicon Ranch will be responsible for funding, constructing, owning, and operating the solar farm in partnership with Santee Cooper. Meanwhile, Central Electric will procure the energy generated by the facility as part of its comprehensive power portfolio.
As part of this agreement, Meta will also receive all renewable energy credits associated with the energy output from the solar farm. Meta’s investment in South Carolina has been substantial, with more than 10 operational sites in the state, including eight in Charleston dedicated to mRNA medicine research.
Both the solar facility and Meta’s data center are slated to become operational by 2027. As the demand for energy continues to rise, this project is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring a sustainable energy future for South Carolina. The emphasis on energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprints aligns with Meta’s broader sustainability goals.
Key Details of the Project
- Location: Orangeburg County, South Carolina
- Capacity: 100 megawatts
- Total Investment: $100 million
- Tax Revenues: Over $8 million
- Operational By: 2027
- Energy Cooperatives Served: 19
- Renewable Energy Credits: Allocated to Meta
Background Context
The project reflects the growing trend of companies investing in renewable energy to both meet increasing energy demands and address environmental concerns. Meta’s involvement aligns with its ongoing efforts to enhance energy efficiency across its operations and diminish its carbon footprint.
Through collaborations like these, Silicon Ranch and Central Electric are not only contributing to local economies but also playing a pivotal role in the clean energy transition taking place across the country.
FAQ
What is the capacity of the solar farm being built in Orangeburg County?
The solar farm will have a capacity of 100 megawatts.
What is the total investment for the solar project?
The total capital investment for the project is projected to be $100 million.
How will the solar farm benefit the local community?
The solar facility is expected to generate over $8 million in tax revenues, which will be allocated toward local infrastructure, schools, and other community priorities.
When is the solar farm expected to be operational?
Both the solar farm and Meta’s data center are expected to be operational by 2027.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Orangeburg County, South Carolina |
| Capacity | 100 megawatts |
| Total Investment | $100 million |
| Tax Revenue Benefit | Over $8 million |
| Operational By | 2027 |
| Energy Cooperatives Served | 19 |
| Renewable Energy Credits | Allocated to Meta |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Unveils $800 Million Meta Data Center Investment
Silicon Ranch Partners with Central Electric to Develop Solar Facility in Orangeburg County
Meta Invests $800 Million in Aiken County Data Center
Davie County Solar Project Construction Begins
Additional Resources
- WIS TV: New $100M Solar Farm Coming to Orangeburg County
- Sustainability Magazine: How Will Meta Back Solar in First South Carolina Data Centre
- Power Technology: Solar Farm for Meta’s Data Centre in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Solar Energy
- Google Search: Meta Data Center 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.
