South Carolina’s AIKENWith a $75 million investment in its Aiken factory, global power systems maker Rolls-Royce is demonstrating a significant commitment to its operations in South Carolina. The company’s long-term goal of energy security and domestic manufacturing will be strengthened by the expansion, which will increase the production of its MTU Series 4000 engines in the United States and generate 60 new employment.
In addition to the previously announced $24 million renovation at the company’s Mankato, Minnesota location, the Aiken plant expansion is a component of a larger nationwide investment of $100 million. Another 100 employment were created by the program.
ASSEMBLY Magazine was the first to report on the announcement, which highlights Rolls-Royce’s expanding involvement in providing mission-critical infrastructure, especially backup power solutions for data centers, a market that is expanding quickly in the United States.
Bringing Machining Capabilities In-House
Many of the parts for the MTU Series 4000 engines are currently machined in Germany. Nonetheless, Rolls-Royce intends to relocate additional machining activities to the Aiken site in the United States. This change will shorten lead times, increase the resilience of the supply chain, and more effectively meet consumer needs.
Early 2026 is when construction is expected to start, while output is expected to start by mid-2027.
High-Tech Facility with Local Workforce Focus
Modern manufacturing and testing facilities, solar power integration, and a nationally acclaimed high school student apprenticeship program are already features of the Aiken plant, which opened in 2010. There are already 374 employees at the plant; with the extra investment, that number will rise to 434.
The action demonstrates Rolls-Royce’s faith in the local talent pool and solidifies South Carolina’s standing as a critical center for innovative manufacturing.
Part of a Broader U.S. Growth Strategy
Rolls-Royce’s most recent investments demonstrate the company’s ongoing dedication to strengthening domestic supply chains and offshoring production. By constructing robust, mission-ready power infrastructure nationwide, the business hopes to contribute to U.S. energy security.
The Aiken expansion puts South Carolina in a crucial position for future energy readiness as the need for backup power and high-performance generators keeps growing, especially in industries like IT, healthcare, and emergency response.
Have you or a loved one held a position in the expanding advanced manufacturing sector in South Carolina?Tell the Saluda Standard-Sentinel crew about this development or share your experience.
