Here’s the company with $1.3 billion plans for Chester County, and 300-plus new jobs
A new $1.3 billion investment is on the way for Chester County. It’s set to add more than 300 new jobs at a new lithium hydroxide processing site.
Construction on almost 800 acres in Richburg should begin next year for Albemarle Corporation. The company turns lithium and bromine into products for a variety of industries. The Chester County site will serve electric vehicle and other uses that involve lithium-ion batteries. Albemarles is a Charlotte company.
Company CEO Kent Masters said in a release Wednesday Albemarle will invest in the new site to meet growing customer demand.
“We wanted a location with access to nearby rail and port transportation and the availability of skilled workers,” Masters said.
The Herald reported on the economic incentive package for the deal in recent weeks, along with several other large projects in various stages of decision by the county. They include solar farm and shipping company projects set to add tens of millions of dollars in local investment.
Albemarle’s site is a “mega-flex” facility that processes various forms of lithium, including from recycled batteries. The facility should produce 50,000 to 100,000 metric tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually.
Gov. Henry McMaster called the impressive announcement proof that South Carolina is a top state for electric vehicle manufacturers to call home. State commerce secretary Harry Lightsey said in the announcement Albemarle is a global leader in its industry.
“The company’s significant investment in Chester County demonstrates to the world that South Carolina is poised to support resilient energy operations, especially the growing electric vehicle supply chain,” Lightsey said.
Chester County Council Chairman Joe Branham said the new company will impact generations of county residents.
“This global industry leader perfectly bridges our manufacturing heritage with technology for the future, making us the foundation for the U.S. EV industry,” Branham said.
Rail lines through the L&C Railroad were a major draw, as was I-77 and proximity to the airport in Charlotte and port in Charleston.
This story was originally published March 22, 2023 at 1:52 PM.
