OpenAI has announced details for Project Camellia, a long-term datacenter project in Effingham County, Georgia, outlining its initial community commitments regarding power, water, and local benefits. The company is contracting with Georgia Power Company for 3.2 gigawatts of power to be delivered between 2028 and 2032.
- Electricity rates will not increase for residents; OpenAI will pay full infrastructure costs and proactively reduce consumption during high demand.
- Water use is minimal via a closed-loop recirculating system, with ongoing needs limited to standard office-style maintenance.
- OpenAI will provide $80 million in community benefits over the project's life and up to $71 million in Codex credits for eligible Georgia students.
- An annual independent audit will ensure accountability, with input from a July 23 public open house shaping a Georgia Community Compact.
The project aims to strengthen domestic AI infrastructure while creating thousands of jobs and significant tax revenue for the region.