Greentech Lead America: Johnson Controls has opened an
automotive battery recycling facility in Florence, South Carolina.
With a capital investment of more than $150 million,
the battery recycling facility represents 250 new jobs, and 1,000 indirect jobs
in the area. Currently, 200 employees are working onsite as the facility ramps
up production.
“We’re proud to bring a recycling facility
to Florence, resulting in a strong capital investment and many jobs to the
area,” said Alex Molinaroli, president, Johnson Controls Power
Solutions. “We are appreciative to all those who helped support us
along the way and we look forward to a strong continued relationship with
the Florence community.”
The facility, located directly off of US-76, on Paper
Mill Road, will recycle 132,000 metric tons per year, or the equivalent of more
than 14 million automotive batteries. It sits on a 685-acre site near
other major corporate leaders such as Roche Carolina and Smurfit-Stone.
Johnson Controls started the construction of the Florence
Recycling Center in 2011 after receiving an air permit from South Carolina
Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
“The steps taken by Johnson Controls to maximize
economic impact and minimize environmental effects on our area are commendable
and extremely important to our citizens,” said Senator Hugh
Leatherman. “Throughout the process, many worked with Johnson Controls to
ensure that citizens’ concerns were heard and that we had the support of entire
area. This was critical in bringing the recycling center
to Florence and will help ensure its success.”
As part of the company’s commitment to environmental
stewardship, Johnson Controls will minimize its environmental footprint within
the state by protecting sensitive habitats, managing habitat for wildlife,
participating in the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Stewardship Program,
and storm water management.
editor@greentechlead.com