Google announced a new, $1 billion investment within the next two years in North Carolina to grow its data center infrastructure in Lenoir, among other commitments to the state. Google has proudly called North Carolina home for more than 15 years with a data center in Lenoir and an office in Durham.
“Google’s latest investment in the City of Lenoir and Caldwell County underscores a deep commitment to North Carolina’s continued growth and success,” said City of Lenoir Mayor Joseph Gibbons. “This funding will enhance our workforce, expand economic development opportunities, and ensure North Carolina remains a leader in innovation. I want to thank Google for investing in Lenoir and helping to build a stronger future for every resident of our great state.”
“Investments like this one from Google are critical for strengthening our community,” said Caldwell County Commission Chairman Randy Church. “This funding will bring new opportunities for local workers and help drive long-term economic success in our region. We appreciate Google’s commitment to North Carolina.”
Data centers are the heart of the internet, powering a variety of technologies people use everyday - ranging from productivity apps, ecommerce platforms and video streaming services, to the systems that keep hospitals, businesses, and government programs running. The Lenoir Google data center supports Google services including Maps, Photos, Search, Workspace, YouTube and more.
Strengthening Energy Efficiency and Reliability
Google also announced a $2 million Energy Impact Fund in collaboration with Blue Ridge Community Action, Blue Ridge Energy, and Advanced Energy. The fund will be used to scale and accelerate energy initiatives in Caldwell County and will support community partners with a focus on energy affordability, weatherization upgrades, and energy efficiency for both low- to moderate-income households and K-12 schools. Google funding will also enable the expansion of existing community solar programs, reducing energy burden and promoting renewable energy access for Caldwell County residents.
“As a member-owned cooperative, our mission is to improve the lives of every person we serve,” said Jon Jacob, Director of Marketing, Blue Ridge Energy. “This generous support from Google allows us to expand the reach of our community solar gardens, ensuring access to renewable energy can include anyone—regardless of income. It’s a perfect reflection of our cooperative spirit: members helping members, supported by a partner who shares our commitment to making life better for our local community."
“We’re thrilled to partner with Google and Caldwell County Schools to boost energy efficiency, comfort and resiliency across the district,” said Brian Coble, President, Advanced Energy. “These upgrades will help schools save money and free up resources to strengthen student learning and long‑term success. We’re grateful for Google’s support and excited to get to work."
“Blue Ridge Community Action is excited to partner with Google on this critical pre-weatherization initiative in Caldwell County,” said Stephanie Ashley, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Community Action. “Google’s transformative investment will help remove barriers that prevent many families from receiving weatherization services, particularly when homes require structural, electrical, plumbing, or other health and safety repairs that fall outside North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program’s scope. This investment directly supports our mission and will allow us to reach families living in some of the most vulnerable housing conditions in our community. We are grateful for Google’s support and look forward to the lasting impact this partnership will have on Caldwell County families.”
Growing Community Impact
As a long-term partner dedicated to fostering local progress, Google is deepening its commitment to North Carolina through new investments in heritage and workforce development. This includes a $100,000 donation to the City of Lenoir for the historic high school renovation project and a three-year, $270,000 grant to Communities In Schools of Caldwell County (CISCC). This funding establishes the CISCC Workforce Development & Digital Equity Fund, which—in collaboration with Caldwell County Schools and Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI)—will dismantle technological and financial barriers for students pursuing vocational training through 2027.
"The strength of Caldwell County lies in our ability to work together to support our neighbors,” said Dr. Mark Poarch, President, CCC&TI. “This collaboration between Caldwell County Schools, CCC&TI, and Google ensures that local students have the resources they need to transition seamlessly into the workforce. This fund is more than a grant; it is an investment in the long-term resilience and economic vitality of our entire community."
The investments announced today in North Carolina build on Google’s commitment to strengthening the communities they call home and investing in the critical digital and energy infrastructure needed to power the future.
Learn more about Google in North Carolina at: g.co/economicimpact/nc.