Building AI infrastructure with the Effingham County community

OpenAI announced on July 22, 2026, that it is building AI infrastructure with the Effingham County community through Project Camellia, a long-term datacenter project in Effingham County, Georgia. The company said it is contracting with Georgia Power Company for 3.2 gigawatts of power to be delivered in phases between 2028 and 2032. OpenAI stated that electricity rates will not increase for residents due to the project and that it will pay the full cost of infrastructure and electric-service costs. The project will use a closed-loop water system to minimize water use and avoid diverting water from local communities. OpenAI committed $80 million in community benefits over the life of the project, directed toward local priorities such as schools, public safety, health care, and workforce training. The company also said it will provide up to $71 million in Codex credits for eligible Georgia college, community college, and technical school students. An annual publicly available audit by an independent firm will be conducted to ensure accountability. OpenAI said it has been meeting with state and local officials, community leaders, schools, and regional partners to learn about local priorities and gather feedback. On Thursday, July 23, OpenAI will hold a public open house where residents can meet the project team, ask questions, and help shape how the project delivers for Effingham County.