Up to 1000 jobs created by Welsh firm in US
DST innovations to create hard carbon energy storage for projects like Swansea's planned Dragon Tidal Energy
A Welsh technology firm is creating up to a thousand jobs in West Virginia in the US
DST Innovations who are based in Bridgend create hard carbon energy storage materials.
The coal from West Virginia is set to be used in the clean energy Dragon Energy Island project in Swansea.
The manufacturing base will be located in Morgantown, with a Phase 2 expansion planned for the Southern Coalfields region of the state.
The West Virginia Governor Jim Justice welcomed the partnership:
“It’s wonderful to be able to announce a new international partnership for business in West Virginia. The development is a great example of the special relationship we have with the UK and, now, specifically, with Wales.
“West Virginia and Wales are both proud mining communities. They share their heritage and appreciation for the natural resources, and this special partnership will see us both at the forefront of new energy.”
The pioneering facility in West Virginia will be integral to a new, internationally-funded $1.4 billion natural energy project: Dragon Energy Island, located in Swansea.
Products created in West Virginia will enable the efficient storage of energy generated at the groundbreaking project, harnessing the power of nature.
Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council said:
“Swansea Bay offers an unprecedented opportunity to deliver the world’s first truly integrated tidal energy project. This project has the potential to spur a new industry not just for Swansea but for Wales and the UK.
"The impacts on employment and our local economy are set to be significant and perfectly timed as we address the post-COVID economy.”