National Science Foundation selects Grid Modernization Engine in the Carolinas as Innovation Hub
WINNSBORO, SC — Fairfield County Economic Development is excited to announce that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has officially selected the NSF Grid Modernization Engine in the Carolinas (Carolinas Grid Engine) as an NSF Regional Innovation Engine.
This highly competitive and prestigious designation places the Carolinas at the absolute forefront of the nation's energy transition. Out of nearly 300 applicants nationwide, the Carolinas Grid Engine is one of only 12 teams selected. The award includes an initial federal investment of $15 million, with the potential to secure up to $160 million over the next decade.
Driving Energy Innovation and Economic Growth
Led by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte), the Carolinas Grid Engine will build a premier regional hub to design, test, commercialize, and deploy next-generation utility grid technologies. By addressing the critical challenge of modernizing the nation’s electrical grid, this initiative will catalyze economic growth and create high-wage jobs across North and South Carolina.
The Mission of the Engine:
"Accelerating the development and domestic manufacturing of grid technologies across North and South Carolina – cutting deployment timelines, building a skilled workforce, and growing a self-sustaining regional innovation ecosystem that strengthens America’s energy security."
Key Areas of Focus:
- Advancing Use-Inspired R&D: Developing cutting-edge grid technologies to meet modern demand.
- Accelerating Commercialization: Moving energy innovations from the lab to the marketplace.
- Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains: Ensuring critical grid components are manufactured locally.
- Supporting Entrepreneurship: Fueling venture creation and local business growth in the energy sector.
- Creating Workforce Pathways: Designing robust training programs for the energy jobs of tomorrow.
- Improving Grid Reliability: Enhancing the resilience and security of our power infrastructure.
Clarifying the Focus: A Manufacturing and Workforce Initiative
To ensure clear alignment with local development goals, Fairfield County Economic Development emphasizes that this partnership is not related to data center development in Fairfield County.
Instead, Fairfield County's role as a priority county is focused strictly on advanced manufacturing, physical grid hardware, supply chain assembly, and industrial workforce development. This initiative is designed to support our existing industrial base, attract high-quality manufacturing facilities, and train local residents for technical, hands-on careers in the clean energy and grid-utility sectors.
A Historic Opportunity for Fairfield County
As an active partner and a designated priority county, Fairfield County is uniquely positioned to benefit from this landmark initiative. The county will leverage its strategic focus on advanced manufacturing, grid modernization, and industrial development to play a vital role in the Engine's success.
Insights from Fairfield County Leadership:
"This is a transformative milestone for our community. Being partner to this NSF Regional Innovation Engine allows Fairfield County to directly contribute to national energy security while opening incredible doors for our local workforce. Our residents will have direct access to specialized training, equipping them with the highly technical skills needed for the premier manufacturing and energy jobs of tomorrow."
— Ann Broadwater, Director of Fairfield County Economic Development
"This partnership comes at a perfect time for Fairfield County. We are currently in the process of upgrading our local infrastructure specifically to support next-generation industrial growth. Aligning our physical improvements with the high-tech requirements of the Carolinas Grid Engine ensures we are creating a plug-and-play environment for energy and manufacturing companies, paving the way for sustainable, long-term economic prosperity."
— Vic Carpenter, Fairfield County Administrator
"The Fairfield County Council is immensely proud to support this groundbreaking initiative. This isn't just an investment in grid technology; it is a direct investment in our people. By aligning with UNC Charlotte and our regional partners, we are ensuring that Fairfield County residents are first in line for the high-quality, future-proof jobs this Engine will create. The future of energy is being built right here in the Carolinas, and Fairfield County is proud to help lead the charge."
— Clarence Gilbert, Chairman of Fairfield County Council
About the Carolinas Grid Engine
The NSF Grid Modernization Engine in the Carolinas (Carolinas Grid Engine) is a regional energy innovation hub designed to create a resilient, efficient, and technologically advanced power grid. Spanning North and South Carolina and supported by more than 100 partners across academia, industry, utilities, and economic development, the Engine accelerates the path from laboratory research to commercial market adoption. Learn more at carolinasgridengine.com.
About Fairfield County Economic Development
Fairfield County Economic Development is dedicated to facilitating diverse economic growth, supporting local industries, and cultivating a highly skilled workforce in Fairfield County, South Carolina. By attracting top-tier businesses and fostering strategic partnerships, the department strives to enhance the quality of life and economic prosperity of the entire community. To learn more, visit https://www.fairfieldcountysc.com/.
