Palmetto State News

Clarios, a global leader in advanced battery solutions, announced today that it is expanding its operations in Oconee County, South Carolina. The company plans to invest approximately $16 million and create 12 new jobs.

Based in Glendale, Wisconsin, Clarios manufactures over 150 million advanced, low-voltage batteries for the mobility industry each year. The Oconee County facility is one of 16 U.S. operations and produces component parts for Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, which are critical for new automotive technologies. These batteries provide a reliable low-voltage energy source necessary for powering essential vehicle systems and functions.

The expansion will add 9,000 square feet to the facility and include infrastructure improvements along with high-tech molding and assembly equipment. This will enhance production of components for advanced batteries at the plant located at 1204 Old Walhalla Highway in West Union. Operations are expected to be online by January 2025. Interested individuals can visit Clarios' careers page for job opportunities.

"As Clarios continues to grow our AGM battery business, we are excited to expand our footprint in Oconee County, and to welcome new employees to this site," said Clarios President of U.S. and Canada Gerardo Gonzelez-Aleu. "The components we make at this facility are critical to supporting the future of transportation, and our decision to expand production here speaks to the high quality of this workforce."

Gov. Henry McMaster expressed his support: "We are pleased to see Clarios thriving and expanding in our state. The company’s investment and new jobs represent increased opportunities for Oconee County and reinforce that South Carolina is a place where businesses can prosper."

Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III also highlighted the importance of the expansion: "With advanced energy being an essential part of economic growth, we are pleased to have part of the Clarios network in our state. This expansion demonstrates that South Carolina’s companies are working to meet the demands of an evolving market."

Senate President Thomas C. Alexander praised Clarios' commitment: "Clarios has been an outstanding neighbor and good corporate citizen in Oconee County. We are pleased they have decided to reaffirm their commitment to Oconee and the State of South Carolina by announcing a multimillion-dollar expansion here."

Oconee Economic Alliance President Jamie Gilbert echoed these sentiments: "Oconee County is thrilled and appreciates Clarios’ commitment to grow their West Union operation. The project is the latest example of Oconee County being a top shelf for business location."

FIVE FAST FACTS

- Clarios is expanding operations in Oconee County.

- The company will invest approximately $16 million and create 12 new jobs.

- Clarios is a global leader in advanced battery solutions.

- The Clarios manufacturing facility is located at 1204 Old Walhalla Highway in West Union, S.C.

- Individuals interested in joining the Clarios team should visit the company’s careers page.