Congressman Carter Highlights Investment in Battery Materials Processing – Good for Innovation and Good for St. Gabriel Community
ST. GABRIEL, L.A. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-La.) joined U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, Governor John Bel Edwards, federal and local partners, to celebrate a $100 million Battery Materials Processing Grant for Koura Flour, Inc. This was made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Congressman Carter helped craft and voted for.
“I’m excited to celebrate a significant step forward in our nation's pursuit of sustainable energy and technological innovation,” said Rep. Carter. “This funding is investing in the first U.S. manufacturing plant for LiPF6 – and it’s happening right here in St. Gabriel, Louisiana. Beyond the technological strides, it’s important to highlight the positive impact this venture will have on our local communities. Koura has been an integral part of St. Gabriel since 1991, demonstrating a commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. I look forward to the positive impact this will have on our communities, our workforce, and the generations to come.”
Koura’s proposed plant will produce up to 10,000MT of LiPF6 per year which is sufficient to support domestic production of more than a million full electric vehicles (EVs) and will expand employment at the St. Gabriel facility by up to 80 new jobs.
Additionally, Koura plans to Implement a scholarship program for students attending local community colleges and universities. The scholarships will be prioritized for students in disadvantaged or underserved communities with preference given to those who live closest to the operating site. Koura will also partner with River Parishes Community College and the Iberville Parish School Board to create a Summer Industry Institute for St Gabriel high school students. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a weeklong summer program that will expose them to industry careers, STEM-based activities, and a Koura site tour. This will increase interest in industry-based jobs, increase female participation in STEM, and increase participation of underrepresented minorities and underserved communities in higher-paying, industry-based jobs.
Background
The Battery Materials Processing Grants Program is designed to provide grants for battery materials processing to ensure that the United States has a viable battery materials processing industry. Funds can also be used to expand our domestic capabilities in battery manufacturing and enhance processing capacity.
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