Vertiv Commits $17.8 Million to Expand Anderson County Operations, Adding 53 Jobs

Anderson County is poised for a significant economic boost as Vertiv Corporation, a major player in digital infrastructure manufacturing, commits to an $17.8 million expansion of its local operations. The project, previously known by the codename Project Flyrod, will bring 53 new full-time jobs to the area with competitive wages and benefits.

The Anderson County Council unanimously approved tax incentives for the expansion on March 17, clearing the way for one of the most significant business investments in the county this year.

What Is Vertiv?

Headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, Vertiv is not a household name for most residents. But if you have ever used a smartphone, streamed a video, or relied on cloud computing, you have almost certainly benefited from their products.

The company creates digital infrastructure for data centers, communication networks, and commercial and industrial facilities worldwide. Their equipment helps keep the internet running, powers telecommunications networks, and supports critical systems for businesses across the globe.

The Anderson facility specifically focuses on switchgear and busbar manufacturing. Switchgear assemblies contain electrical components like circuit breakers, switches, and fuses that control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. Busbar manufacturing involves fabricating conductive copper or aluminum bars that distribute electrical power. These are essential components for modern electrical infrastructure.

The Expansion Details

The $17.8 million investment represents a major commitment to Anderson County. Vertiv already maintains facilities in the area, including operations at 400 Supreme Industrial Drive in Anderson and a 215,000-square-foot facility in Pelzer that employs approximately 300 workers.

This expansion will build upon that existing presence, adding 53 new full-time positions to the companys local workforce. According to Anderson County Director of Economic Development Burris Nelson, these positions will carry an average pay of $32 per hour and include health benefits.

For context, that wage significantly exceeds Anderson Countys median hourly earnings. These are skilled manufacturing positions that offer genuine career opportunities for local residents.

Understanding the Incentives

The Anderson County Council approved a Fee in Lieu of Taxes (FILOT) agreement to support the expansion. This program, administered through the South Carolina Department of Revenue, allows counties to offer significant property tax reductions to companies investing at least $2.5 million in qualifying projects.

The incentives can reduce property tax obligations through special source credits of roughly 40%. However, these benefits are not automatic or unconditional. The agreement includes strict performance requirements that protect taxpayer interests.

Vertiv will have up to five years to create the promised 53 full-time jobs once operations begin. If job creation or capital investment targets are not met, the special source tax credits would be reduced to 25%. Similarly, if the $17.8 million capital investment is not in place by the end of the third tax year, credits drop to 25%.

The agreement can also be retroactively terminated if the minimum investment is not met during the investment period. These safeguards ensure that tax incentives are tied to actual economic benefits for the community.

Why This Matters for Anderson

Economic development announcements often focus on big numbers and distant timelines. But the Vertiv expansion has immediate implications for Anderson residents.

First, 53 new jobs at $32 per hour represent over $3.5 million in annual payroll that will circulate through the local economy. These workers will buy homes, shop at local businesses, eat at local restaurants, and contribute to the tax base.

Second, Vertivs decision to expand here rather than elsewhere signals confidence in Anderson Countys workforce and business environment. The company has options. They have facilities across the country and internationally in Mexico, Slovakia, the United Arab Emirates, Ireland, and Northern Ireland. Choosing to invest $17.8 million in Anderson says something positive about our community.

Third, manufacturing jobs like these create ripple effects. Suppliers, logistics companies, and service providers all benefit when major manufacturers expand. The 53 direct jobs will likely support additional indirect employment throughout the local economy.

Looking Ahead

Pending final agreements with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, Vertiv will move forward with its expansion plans. The company has not publicly commented on specific timelines or details beyond what was presented to the County Council.

For job seekers in Anderson County, this announcement represents a concrete opportunity. As the expansion moves forward, Vertiv will need to fill 53 positions ranging from production workers to technical specialists. Residents interested in these opportunities should monitor the companys career listings and local job boards.

The Vertiv expansion joins a growing list of economic development wins for Anderson County. As the community continues to attract investment and create quality jobs, the future looks increasingly bright for residents and businesses alike.