Odaily Planet Daily reports that OpenAI announced on Wednesday its plan to build Project Camellia in Effingham County, Georgia—a data center campus of at least $20 billion, spanning 1,400 acres and requiring 3.2 gigawatts of power.
OpenAI stated that it has met with state and local officials, community leaders, schools, and other stakeholders to gather feedback and will host public open houses. The company said the project is still in the early stages of development, with significant work remaining on infrastructure, phasing, design, financing, and operational models.
Effingham County Commissioner Jamie DeLoach said the project uses minimal water, will not increase energy costs for county residents, will generate new tax revenue to support schools, and create new opportunities for local businesses. OpenAI has partnered with Georgia Power to phase in power to the campus between 2028 and 2032.
OpenAI stated that it will provide $80 million in community benefits over the course of the project and up to $71 million in Codex credits to eligible students at Georgia colleges, community colleges, and technical schools. Upon full completion, the project is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and over 1,000 operational positions.