SK Innovation is ready to begin construction on its second electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility in Jackson County this summer.
Governor Brian Kemp's office announced Monday that construction is expected to begin in July.
"I want to thank SK innovation for their continued investment in Georgia," said Kemp in a press statement. "As we navigate the changing landscape of our economy, this news could not come at a better time. Moving forward, our focus remains on creating good opportunities for hardworking Georgians, and with great partners like SK innovation at our side. I know our best days are ahead."
SK Innovation develops and manufactures lithium ion batteries for electric vehicles.
The South Korean company first announced plans to build the Georgia plants in November 2018. Company officials pledged at that time to invest $1.67 billion in Georgia's economy.
When both facilities are complete in 2023, SK innovation will have the capacity to produce batteries for 310,000 electric vehicles per year to help meet consumer demand. The company plans to hire more than 2,000 as part of the investment.
"While the global community faces challenging times, SK innovation believes it is important to continue making strategic investments to drive economic growth and meaningful change," said CEO Kim Jun. "With this investment, SK innovation’s battery business will significantly contribute to not only the local Georgia economy, but the development of the U.S. EV industry value chain and ecosystem."
SK innovation is a part of the SK Group, one of the largest conglomerates in South Korea. The company employs more than 6,500 individuals worldwide, and customers for SK innovation’s battery business include Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai-Kia Motors.
The two facilities will occupy acreage in the Commerce 85 Business Park in Jackson County.
