State Approves Renaissance Zone to Support A123 Systems' Advanced Battery Facility

Approval of a 15-year, 75.26-acre Renaissance Zone in the city of Romulus

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced state approval of a 15-year, 75.26-acre Renaissance Zone in the city of Romulus that will be home to A123 Systems' lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility. The project is expected to create up to 370 jobs and generate $131 million in private investment. 

“We’re well on our way to becoming the advanced battery capital of North America and a global center for clean energy manufacturing,” Granholm said. “Clean energy companies are choosing to do business in Michigan because of our competitive business climate, tremendous workforce and comprehensive economic development programs.”

A Renaissance Zone allows a company operating within the zone to operate free of virtually all state and local taxes over the life of the designation.  

“We are using every tool in our economic development tool box to diversify our economy and grow new jobs,” Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Greg Main said. “This project and others like it in the pipeline will help grow entire new industries in Michigan.”

"A123's lithium-ion battery manufacturing investment in the heart of our re-developing region helps Michigan continue to brand itself as the energy excellence capital, utilizing our talent workforce to diversify industry," Wayne County Executive Robert A. Ficano said. "We're hopeful A123's decision to locate in Michigan will encourage other businesses to follow suit, taking advantage of our unique resources."    

Michigan’s Renaissance Zone program is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The MEDC, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.