In a landmark move for economic development in Jefferson Parish, UBE C1 Chemicals America Incorporated (UCCA), under parent company UBE, Corp., a Japan-based leader in chemical manufacturing, has invested in a pioneering project at Cornerstone Energy Park, set to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry in the U.S.
The project is expected to significantly impact the local economy, which will generate approximately $2.17 million in annual property tax revenue for the parish during the first ten years, escalating to an estimated $10.17 million annually for the duration of the project (an estimated 30 years). This influx of resources promises to bolster outreach and infrastructure, enhancing the quality of life for Jefferson Parish residents.
UCCA will produce dimethyl carbonate and ethyl methyl carbonate at Cornerstone Energy Park (CEP). The project will employ environmentally responsible production methods, using natural gas, methanol, and other locally sourced materials. This approach supports both Cornerstone Energy Park’s sustainability and Louisiana's green energy objectives.
UCCA is committed to transparency and community outreach, ensuring that the benefits of this venture extend beyond the gates of CEP to Jefferson Parish and beyond.
Shawn Ward, Cornerstone's Director of Corporate Health, Safety, Security, Environmental, and Sustainability, highlighted the project's alignment with CEP’s goals for modernization and carbon footprint reduction. “This is a great opportunity for Jefferson Parish to be on the ground floor of the cutting edge of the green economy and a sustainable future,” Ward said. “UCCA’s products would help reduce the country's carbon footprint by eliminating dependence on maritime imports of these materials from Japan and China and other places in the world.”
In its ITEP application, UCCA pledged to hire nine new employees and plans to contract an additional 47 new positions with Cornerstone’s assistance to operate the plant. Gary Silbert, Director of Business Development at GNO Inc., noted that software modeling indicated the project would generate 56 direct positions at Cornerstone Energy Park, alongside 59 indirect roles within the supply chain, and create 43 new jobs in the local community. The construction phase, estimated to last between 18 - 24 months, will employ 300 construction jobs.
The Jefferson Parish Council recently signed off on a significant tax incentive for UBE Corp., facilitating an $80 million tax break over the next ten years through the state Industrial Tax Incentive Program (ITEP). This strategic move was the final hurdle to clear before UBE Corp.’s ambitious $491 million project to build the first facility in the U.S. dedicated to producing vital chemicals for lithium-ion batteries.
UCCA is setting a precedent for sustainable development, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship, economic growth, and community welfare. This new venture not only marks a significant advancement in reducing the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels but also highlights a global shift towards more sustainable energy solutions. This addition at CEP is poised to make Jefferson Parish a key player in the burgeoning green economy, fostering innovation and sustainability for future generations.
For more details on becoming a site tenant with Cornerstone Energy Park, please visit www.cornerstonechemco.com, call (504) 431-9511, or stop by Cornerstone Energy Park at 10800 River Road, Waggaman, LA 70094.
Cornerstone Chemical Company, LLC is a premier intermediate chemical manufacturer in Louisiana, known for its production of essential raw chemicals, including acrylonitrile, melamine, sulfuric acid, and urea. These products play a key role in various everyday goods used across industries, such as agriculture, plastics, and the U.S. military. Operating from Cornerstone Energy Park in Waggaman, which spans 800 acres, the industrial chemical company combines innovative manufacturing processes with a commitment to safety and environmental sustainability. Cornerstone is driven by excellence in the chemical industry, delivering high-quality solutions that support global needs while achieving positive community and environmental impact.
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For more information about Cornerstone Chemical Company, contact the company here:
Cornerstone Chemical Company
Ainslie Blanke
(504) 431-9511
Ainslie.Blanke@cornerstonechemco.com
10800 River Road, Waggaman LA 70094
