AESC, a developer of batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems, along with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, has inaugurated its 1.6 million sq ft 30 GWh gigafactory in the Kentucky Transpark in Bowling Green, Warren County.
The plant will not only create 2,000 jobs in the region but also produce battery cells and modules to power next-generation EVs produced for multiple global automotive manufacturers. The gigafactory is projected to be operational by early 2025 and will power up to 300,000 vehicles annually by 2027.
“AESC’s new gigafactory... represents an important achievement in our strategy to strengthen our footprint in the U.S. as we drive innovation and supply chain development of battery production to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for the growing U.S. market,” said AESC US Managing Director Jeff Deaton. “We are creating the next generation of battery solutions to meet the increasing demand for more energy-efficient electric vehicles across the globe.”
The gigafactory will be powered by 100% renewable energy, supplied by onsite generation and purchased locally from the Tennessee Valley Authority.
AESC will produce new generation battery cells to provide 30% more energy density than the current generation, thereby reducing charging time and increasing range and efficiency for EVs.
The company will incorporate high-tech capabilities to increase the cost-competitiveness and technological sophistication of EV batteries produced at the plant to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for American drivers.
“We are confident that this gigafactory will not only strengthen local economies by creating thousands of new competitive clean energy jobs but also advance Kentucky’s position at the forefront of the fast-growing and global EV industry,” added Deaton.
The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has announced six economic development projects in South Central Kentucky, totaling $61.1 million in capital investment, that have created 311 new jobs in the region, year to date.
“The economic impact of this project over the next decade is $20 billion to our local economy,” said Warren Country Judge-Executive, Doug Gorman.