WASHINGTON-The U.S. Energy Dept. says it will quickly approve additional loans for automakers, parts suppliers and startups so they can retool factories to build more fuel-efficient vehicles. The $16 billion in low-cost funds is expected to jump-start the auto industry.
WASHINGTON-The American Wind Energy Association claims that the wind-power industry experienced record growth in 2009. More than 10,000 megawatts of new wind power were installed throughout the United States last year, generating as much electricity as three large nuclear power plants.
FRANKLIN, TN-Nissan has selected W.G. Yates of Philadelphia, MS, as the general contractor supporting the preconstruction phase for the company’s new battery assembly plant, which will be built in Smyrna, TN. MORE
FORT SMITH, AR-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will build a wind turbine manufacturing plant here. The plant is slated to begin operation in the second half of 2011 and will employ approximately 300. MORE
CHESTER, SC-Window and door manufacturer Kinro Inc. will open a new assembly plant here. The company will invest more than $970,000 dollars in the facility and hire 125 people. MORE
EL SEGUNDO, CA-International Rectifier has opened a new state-of-the-art facility in San Jose, CA, to assemble ruggedized hybrid DC-DC converters for aerospace, military and heavy duty industrial applications. MORE
LONDON, ON-German Solar Corp. will expand its assembly and distribution operations here to take advantage of the province’s rapid solar development. Expecting to employ at least 20 associates once fully operational later this year, the 25,000-square-foot assembly plant will produce environmentally friendly solar arrays for both residential and commercial applications. MORE
DEARBORN, MI-Ford is the first automaker to join the Water Disclosure Project, which will establish a water disclosure protocol for companies around the world and promote conservation and stewardship. MORE