Albemarle Corporation (Albemarle), a global leader in transforming essential resources such as lithium and bromine into critical ingredients for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, announced plans Wednesday to establish South Carolina operations in Chester County.
The company will invest at least $1.3 billion and create more than 300 new jobs to construct a new “Mega-Flex” lithium hydroxide processing facility. This facility will support the surging demand for electric vehicles and other energy storage applications that use lithium-ion batteries.
“Albemarle is focused on meeting growing customer demand and this investment is part of our global commitment to transforming essential resources into critical ingredients that enable a more resilient world,” Albemarle Corporation Chief Executive Officer Kent Masters said. “We wanted a location with access to nearby rail and port transportation and the availability of skilled workers. We’re excited to have chosen South Carolina and to be closer to our customers as the supply chain is built out in North America.”
Albemarle is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina and partners with customers to pioneer new ways to move, power, connect and protect, building a more resilient world where people and the planet thrive.
“Albemarle’s commitment marks a great day for Chester County! Throughout this process we have been incredibly impressed with the company’s commitment to people, community and the environment. It has been a pleasure working with their team over the last 11 months and I look forward to seeing Albemarle’s success and growth in Chester County,” Kris Phillips, assistant director of Chester County Economic Development, said.
Situated on nearly 800 acres near Richburg, Albemarle’s new “Mega-Flex” conversion facility will support the fast-growing global electric vehicle and energy storage markets. The term “Mega-Flex” refers to the facility’s ability to process diverse lithium feedstock, including lithium from recycled batteries. The new 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.
“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. We proudly welcome Albemarle and look forward to seeing their tremendous impact in Chester County and beyond,” Gov. Henry McMaster said.
Construction is expected to begin in 2024. Individuals interested in joining the Albemarle team should visit the company’s careers page.
