Google invests $3.3B to expand South Carolina data centers and energy initiatives

Google's significant investment in South Carolina's energy future was a focal point during the Senate Judiciary Committee's Special Committee on South Carolina’s Energy Future meeting on January 29, 2025. Katie Ottenwiller, Google's Southeast lead for energy market development, highlighted the company's commitment to the state, announcing a $3.3 billion expansion of its data center operations, which will create an additional 200 jobs in Dorchester County.

Ottenwiller emphasized the critical role of data centers in powering the digital economy, noting that Google contributes approximately $626 million annually to South Carolina's GDP. She outlined the company's efforts to ensure responsible energy usage, stating that Google pays its fair share for electricity and collaborates with local utilities to maintain grid stability. This partnership reportedly helps lower electricity costs for all customers, as confirmed by Berkeley Electric Cooperative's CEO.

The discussion also touched on the growing energy demands projected to increase by 1.5 to 2.3% annually through 2030. Ottenwiller pointed out that the time required to build new power plants and transmission lines has significantly increased, stressing the need for innovative solutions in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and nuclear power.

Google's initiatives include a $2.4 million partnership with local cooperatives to assist low-income families in reducing energy bills through efficiency improvements, resulting in an average 24% reduction in energy usage. The company is also pursuing ambitious goals to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030 and has invested in new solar projects to support this aim.

The meeting also featured discussions on the implications of recent advancements in energy efficiency and artificial intelligence, with Ottenwiller acknowledging that while demand for energy will continue to rise, the efficiency of data centers is improving significantly. This ongoing evolution in energy consumption patterns will require careful planning and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a sustainable energy future for South Carolina.

As the committee continues to explore energy options, the importance of maintaining an open marketplace for innovative solutions was underscored, with industry representatives advocating for diverse approaches to meet the state's energy needs. The discussions signal a proactive stance towards addressing the challenges of energy demand while fostering economic growth and sustainability in South Carolina.