ENTEK broke ground for the development of its new $1.5 billion separator plant in Terre Haute, Ind. on Sept. 6.
ENTEK is the only US-owned and operated manufacturer of wet-process lithium-ion battery separators. The plant in Indiana will produce lithium-ion battery components for the growing electric vehicle (EV) industry and is expected to generate more than 640 high-wage jobs by the end of 2027. The plant is set to produce up to 1.4 billion square meters of battery separators per year, enough to supply material for approximately 1.4 million vehicles, annually.
“ENTEK’s decision to locate a new, $1.5 billion battery component manufacturing facility here will have a transformational impact on the West Central Indiana community and the Hoosier economy for generations to come,” Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb said. “This decision cements Indiana’s leadership in the electric vehicle supply chain sector, and we are thrilled to partner with ENTEK to speed the commercialization of U.S.-built EVs.”
ENTEK CEO Larry Keith expressed gratitude for being able to build at the location.
“Beating China on advanced battery development and production starts right here in Terre Haute, today,” he said. “This groundbreaking is an exciting step for ENTEK as we continue to expand our operations.”
According to ENTEK’s news release, Terre Haute was chosen for reasons such as governmental and financial support, a “readied workforce fueled by the expansive educational opportunities in the area,” and access to renewable energy.