OpenAI has announced plans to construct a 3.2-gigawatt, 1,400-acre data center campus in Effingham County, Georgia—marking its largest-ever infrastructure initiative. The project, branded “Project Camellia,” will be built at the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub, approximately 30 minutes north of Savannah, with operational commencement expected by early 2028.
According to OpenAI’s statement, the company has contracted with Georgia Power Company for 3.2 gigawatts of power, delivered in phases between 2028 and 2032. The firm emphasized that Georgia families will not subsidize the project, asserting it will cover all infrastructure and electric-service costs under state regulations prohibiting ratepayer increases. OpenAI further stated the facility will proactively reduce peak demand impacts on the grid to enhance regional power reliability.
The data center initiative includes a $20 billion-dollar agreement with Effingham County Industrial Development Authority. In addition to this investment, Project Camellia promises 400 jobs, $80 million in community benefits, and $71 million in coding classes for Georgia students, per the county’s recent announcement. Two county commissioners publicly endorsed the project, with Commissioner Roger Burdete noting it meets “strict standards for environmental responsibility, public safety, and meaningful community return,” highlighting minimal water usage, no increased energy costs for residents, job creation, and revenue generation for schools and essential services.
Savannah Riverkeeper Executive Director Tonya Bonitatibus expressed skepticism about the project’s water usage feasibility across Georgia, despite OpenAI’s commitment to a closed-loop system that recirculates water like a car radiator. The company clarified that water use will cover standard workplace needs—restrooms, kitchens, sanitation—and will not divert community resources.
To ensure accountability, OpenAI announced an independent annual audit of the project will be conducted and publicly released. The site is located within Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub, a zone already designed for industrial development; OpenAI claims it will generate less traffic and water consumption than previous warehouse plans while delivering stronger long-term tax revenue and permanent on-site employment.
OpenAI stated it will continue engaging with local residents, government officials, schools, and community organizations as the project advances, including a public open house scheduled for Thursday to address feedback and shape accountability measures.
