Clean energy projects should mean a brighter Ohio

Ohioans are beginning to see the positive impacts of recent federal investments in our state’s economy.

These investments are thanks to legislation that was aimed at building up our nation’s infrastructure and combating inflation. They are not only making our state more energy-independent but also slashing electric bills, curbing harmful pollution, and fostering job growth right here in Ohio.

These new clean energy projects, which are funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, have already produced $8.8 billion in investment in Ohio and created or advanced more than 8,600 jobs. Many of those jobs are centered in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector.

Take for instance the announcement from Honda and LG Energy Solutions that they would invest $4.4 billion in an EV battery plant project in Fayette County is only the beginning of federal investments headed to Ohio for EV manufacturing. Edgeenergy, an EV charger power converter manufacturer in Cincinnati, has also announced a $150 million investment to expand its manufacturing operation.

And with a $75 million investment from the IIJA, Cirba Solutions in Lancaster will open a lithium-ion battery recycling plant that will bring more than 150 permanent jobs to the Central Ohio area. Ground-breaking for the facility was held in August and it is expected to be open by early 2025.

These investments will also help ensure young Ohioans have opportunities to stay in our state.

Tom Butch, Salem