Rolls-Royce Boosts U.S.Manufacturing with $75 million Expansion in South Carolina
Rolls-Royce, the distinguished British aerospace and defense company, is significantly expanding its presence in the United States by allocating $75 million to enlarge its engine manufacturing plant in Aiken, South Carolina.
Scaling Up Production of mtu Series 4000 Diesel Engines
This major capital injection is designed to increase output capacity for the mtu Series 4000 diesel engines, which serve as vital backup power units for data centers and other critical infrastructure. With global data center energy consumption expected to approach 3% of total electricity usage by 2030, dependable power solutions are increasingly essential.
Job Creation and Strengthening Local Manufacturing
The facility expansion will create around 60 new positions at the Aiken site, supporting regional employment growth while enhancing Rolls-Royce’s ability to fulfill rising demand within the U.S. market. By relocating more component machining operations from Germany to this location, Rolls-royce aims to boost domestic production content and simplify supply chain logistics.
“This investment underscores our dedication to delivering reliable energy systems made domestically,” said Adam Riddle, CEO of Rolls-Royce North America. “It also supports our mission to enhance national energy independence and security.”
Expanding Beyond Aerospace into Energy infrastructure
this advancement reflects Rolls-Royce’s strategic shift from its aerospace heritage toward broader energy markets. The company is positioning itself as a leading provider of resilient power infrastructure amid growing concerns about grid stability and climate-related challenges.
A Key Center for Power Systems innovation in north America
The South Carolina facility will become a pivotal hub within Rolls-Royce’s expanding North American operations focused on advanced power systems technology. Construction on phase one is scheduled for early 2026 with full production anticipated by mid-2027.
International Partnerships Driving Technological Progress
This announcement follows an international collaboration between the United Kingdom and Czech Republic aimed at advancing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). Through this partnership, Rolls-Royce may export up to six SMR units supporting Czech clean energy initiatives-highlighting how innovation spans both customary engine manufacturing and cutting-edge nuclear technologies.
