Residents invited to data center open house
OpenAI has announced a $20 billion data center campus, "Project Camellia," in Effingham County, Georgia, which is already generating strong community reaction. Residents are invited to an open house to discuss concerns about financial strain, noise, electricity rates, and water usage, despite OpenAI's assurances.
OpenAI has announced plans for a $20 billion data center campus, dubbed "Project Camellia," in Effingham County, Georgia. The project, expected to create 400 long-term jobs, has already sparked strong reactions and divided the local community.
WTOC reporter Steven Glover covered a public open house hosted by OpenAI at the Effingham College and Career Academy, where residents were given their first opportunity to directly address the company and seek answers regarding the development. OpenAI states its commitment to a "Georgia Community Compact," which includes an annual independent audit to ensure accountability.
The company has outlined its resource plans, contracting with Georgia Power for 3.2 gigawatts of power, to be delivered in phases between 2028 and 2032. OpenAI insists that residential electric rates will not increase as the company will cover all infrastructure and electric-service costs. Furthermore, it claims water usage will be minimal, utilizing a closed-loop system, and has promised $80 million in community benefits over the project's lifespan.
Despite these assurances, many residents expressed worries about potential financial strain on the community, noise pollution, and the overall water and electricity demands of such a large-scale project. Their concerns are expected to be central to discussions at the ongoing open house.