LowCountry Biomass LLC expands Jasper County facility
March 28, 2012
$16 million investment expected to create 26 new jobs
COLUMBIA, S.C. – March 28, 2012 – LowCountry Biomass, a recycler of wood residues, today announced plans to expand its existing wood pellet manufacturing operations in Jasper County. The $16 million investment is expected to generate 26 new jobs.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to grow our company in Jasper County. South Carolina offers us an excellent business environment and a skilled workforce. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Rhett Harwell, vice president of LowCountry Biomass.
LowCountry Biomass recently took over the operations of Champion Wood Pellets, a manufacturer of wood pellets used in home heating fuel, alternative industrial energy and equine bedding, located at 523 Nimmer Turf Road in Ridgeland. The company is currently operating the pellet manufacturing facility and is in the process of increasing the production capacity at the plant to 200,000 metric tons per year.
“It’s always exciting to see one of our existing businesses grow and create new jobs, and that’s especially true when it’s in one of our rural areas. We celebrate LowCountry Biomass’ decision to expand and create 26 new jobs in Ridgeland,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
In 2011, South Carolina recruited more than $4.7 billion in investment and more than 13,000 new jobs in the manufacturing sector.
“Today’s announcement by LowCountry Biomass certainly helps boost our state’s manufacturing sector and brings new jobs to one of South Carolina’s rural areas. This announcement also adds to the investments made in the state’s agribusiness sector,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
“We are very pleased to welcome LowCountry Biomass to Jasper County. New jobs mean more opportunities for our community and our young people,” said Jasper County Council Chairman Samuel Gregory.
“It is great to see industry investment again and especially in our community. The natural landscape and workforce of this county and region are well suited for green industry like LowCountry Biomass,” said Ridgeland Mayor Joey Malphrus.
The company is currently hiring additional personnel. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact Beau Harwell at 843-726-6400.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing businesses grow. Commerce received the Silver Award from Business Facilities magazine, placing second in the 2011 Economic Development Deal of the Year competition. Commerce has been part of recruiting world-class companies to South Carolina such as Boeing, Bridgestone, Continental, Monster.com, Heinz, ZF Group, BMW and Google Inc. Commerce also supports small and existing business, rural development initiatives and offers grants for community development. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
