CHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — Albemarle Corporation plans to create a “Mega-Flex” lithium hydroxide processing facility in Chester County.
According to a news release, the company will invest at least $1.3 billion and create more than 300 new jobs with the new facility. Its aim is to support the surging demand for electric vehicles and other energy storage applications that use lithium-ion batteries.
Chester County Councilman John Agee said the 800-acre facility will be located just minutes from downtown Richburg in a wooded area at Bryant Corner Road and Highway Nine.
"They’re very interested in trying to help improve the schools so that they can get engineering-type people out of there," Agee said. "Really impressed me about them.”
Brooke Clinton leads the Chester County Chamber of Commerce and is also hopeful the impact will extend beyond the facility.
“As you know, when industry comes, then rooftops follow," Clinton said, "and when rooftops come, small business has advantages and opportunities for new clients, and so I’m excited.”
The facility is expected to annually produce approximately 50,000 metric tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide from multiple sources, with the potential to reach up to 100,000 metric tons.
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"Albemarle’s commitment to our state, with its impressive investment of at least $1.3 billion, further proves South Carolina is one of the best places in the country for electric vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers to call home," Gov. Henry McMaster said. "We proudly welcome Albemarle and look forward to seeing their tremendous impact in Chester County and beyond."
Construction is expected to begin in 2024. Those who are interested in joining the Albemarle team should visit the company’s careers page.
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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