OpenAI's "Project Camellia" in Georgia secures a massive 3.2-gigawatt power deal through 2032
Quick Answer
OpenAI's 'Project Camellia' in Georgia has secured a 3.2-gigawatt power deal with Georgia Power, set to be delivered from 2028 to 2032.
Quick Take
The project will utilize a closed-loop water cooling system and includes an $80 million commitment for local community initiatives, while also addressing concerns over resource use and local job creation.
Key Points
- The project will be implemented in phases from 2028 to 2032.
- OpenAI will fully cover the costs, preventing local power bill increases.
- An $80 million investment is pledged for local schools, healthcare, and housing.
- Up to $71 million in Codex credits will be provided for Georgia students.
- Community protests reflect concerns over resource use and job creation.
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~1 min read
Jul 22, 2026
OpenAI is planning a major data center in Effingham County, Georgia, called "Project Camellia." The company signed a deal with Georgia Power for 3.2 gigawatts of electricity to be delivered in phases between 2028 and 2032. OpenAI says it will cover all costs itself, so local power bills won't go up. The privately funded project will use a closed-loop water cooling system meant to keep ongoing water use low. Water and energy use at data centers are a regular source of criticism, and OpenAI has only released vague consumption figures so far.
OpenAI also pledged $80 million for schools, healthcare, and housing in the area, plus up to $71 million in Codex credits for Georgia students, which doubles as a way to get students hooked on its platform early. Anthropic and other AI companies run similar programs.
OpenAI's cautious approach reflects growing protests against data centers across the US. Many residents see more downsides than benefits, including heavy resource use and noise but very few permanent local jobs.
— Originally published at the-decoder.com
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