New Lithium Battery Recycling Plant May Boost Green Movement in Chester County
CHESTER — A surge of green energy investment is on its way to South Carolina, with a leading battery recycling company announcing plans to set up a new $11 million facility. Princeton NuEnergy (PNE), the third lithium-ion battery recycling company intending to establish a base in the state, announced on June 20, 2024, its intention to develop a plant in the locale of Chester County.
Advancing Energy Recycle Initiatives
PNE’s main operation involves the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric vehicles and electronics. It also repurposes the batteries used in gathering energy generated by renewable resources such as solar energy, in addition to recycling production waste materials.
By recycling these materials, PNE will be contributing significantly to the manufacture of new batteries for electric vehicles – an industry rapidly growing in prominence and demand. The upcoming plant, signifying an exciting shift in Chester County’s industrial landscape, aims to employ 41 individuals and will span over a 25,000-square-foot area. A strategic choice of location places the facility just 30 miles from the North Carolina state borderline.
South Carolina’s Evolving Landscape
The state of South Carolina is steadily cementing its status as a hub of EV industry dominance, and we’re a proud partner with the state and Chester County on this transformative journey,” stated PNE’s CEO, Chao Yan.
Other battery recycling companies investing in South Carolina include Redwood Materials in Berkeley County and Cirba Solutions’ proposed establishment in Richland County. The increased investment is in line with South Carolina’s reputation as a significant player in the competitive field of alternative energy.
However, a previously proposed $1.3 billion lithium processing plant near Richburg in rural Chester County has been temporarily paused due to the plummeting prices of lithium. Despite this stipulation, other battery recycling investments continue, offering a promising outlook for the growth of the state’s green energy sector.
A Sustainable Solution
Emerging from Princeton University in 2019, PNE guarantees that its process of recycling batteries is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to its industry competitors. Yet, the company has not released specifics about the quantity of lithium and metal materials it plans to output.
In light of the critical role of sustainability in the competitive landscape, Secretary of Commerce Harry Lightsey deemed this partnership a significant step in furthering South Carolina’s esteemed standing as an innovative leader in alternative energy.
Supporting the Green Economy
A number of Chester County council members embarked on a tour of the company’s pilot production line in McKinney, Texas, and discussions regarding a property tax deal for the newly planned facility are ongoing.
“Their innovative solutions highlight the company’s dedication to sustainable development and safety,” noted Chester County Council Chairman, Joe Branham.
Moreover, PNE stands to receive state income tax credits, valued over $20,000 for each additional job provided, exceeding the 40 initially announced. The company also received a $500,000 state grant to cover roads and utility requirements, demonstrating the continued support for green development in the region.
Preparing for the Future
With the impending boom in electric vehicle production, the state is ensuring necessary precautions are in place to handle potential lithium-ion fires, which are known to blaze hotter than average fires. Fire departments around the state are taking initiatory steps to equip their firefighters adequately should an emergency arise, marking another important milestone in the state’s commitment to the green movement.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
