When considering how to restore economic prosperity to a state decimated by the outsourcing of manufacturing jobs, it's essential to examine existing assets. These assets include a vast network of manufacturing plants and skilled personnel that can take advantage of the growing green energy market. While the debate rages on about how much renewable energy can be generated by the state's wind and solar resources, evidence clearly points to the fact that as the market grows, Ohio has an opportunity to fill in critical gaps in the green manufacturing supply chain.
This process has already begun. A recent report released by the Chicago based Enviornmental Law and Policy Center finds that there are 169 companies making materials to produce wind or solar power. These companies are sustaining 9,000 green energy jobs within the state, most of which are focused on producing the parts for solar arrays and wind turbines, rather than the turbines or arrays themselves. Much of this has to do with a friendly business climate in the state of Ohio, and an attractive list of incentives available to those who wish to pursue these ever expanding business opportunities. Yet, manufacturing infrastructure and know how has also played a critical role in Ohio's ability to land green manufacturing contracts.
In May of last year, Coda, the Santa Monica, California based electric car manufacturer chose Columbus over a half a dozen other states to build a new lithium ion battery system manufacturing plant. An attractive incentive program was cited as a major reason, though the states existing manufacturing infrastructure and proximity to major shipping and transportation routes also makes Columbus an attractive hub for green manufacturing. Venturi Automobiles recently announced they are partnering with The Ohio State University to base their North American Operations Center in Columbus. Venturi is the largest active electric vehicle production line in the world, and cited OSU's Center for Automotive Research as unmatched in North America for automotive research. This partnership is expected to generate 70 jobs over the next two years, at which point production is expected to begin, also in the Columbus area.
The Coda facility, a 1.4 million square foot battery distribution center is expected to create 1000 skilled jobs in Columbus. It represents the potential of a state once glorified for its manufacturing prowess. Entrepeneurs are taking note of a friendly business climate, skilled employees and already existing infrastructure within 600 miles of the majority of the U.S. population.
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