Coinciding with a nearly year-old program to promote sustainability and innovation, Jefferson County Development Corp. has announced plans by Manner Polymers to build a 100% solar-powered manufacturing plant in the city of Mount Vernon in southern Illinois.
The facility, estimated to cost $54 million, will be connected to a nearby 6-hectare solar field, which will be a cost-effective and reliable source of electricity for the Texas-based plastic compound manufacturer.
Touted to be “the most environmentally sustainable compounding plant in the world” by Manner Polymers’ CEO Raj Bhargava, this facility underscores Jefferson County’s shift towards building renewable energy sources locally, positioning the region as an ideal location for businesses pursuing sustainable growth.
“I am proud to say that Jefferson County is now not only to be a great place to work and live but will also be a premier destination for clean energy projects. Manner Polymer’s commitment to our region is a testament to our commitment to sustainability,” said JCDC Executive Director Tony Iriti.
Drawing on Jefferson County’s strength in advanced manufacturing, Iriti envisions a future wherein the region will lead in clean manufacturing.
“Green and clean is the way forward. We possess the talent, space and infrastructure to support many such success stories. We welcome businesses and individuals to join us in our pursuit of sustainability as innovation and environmental stewardship thrive in our region,” he said.
