Dive Brief:

• Perry, Oh-based RES Polyflow, a company that converts scrap plastic into fuel, is launching a production hub in Ashley, IN which will generate about 136 new jobs by 2019. The company will have invested about $181.94 million in the building and equipment by that timeframe, according to Recycling Today.
• Initially, the waste-to-energy operation will convert 100,000 tons of plastic into 17 million gallons of ultra-low sulfur diesel and gasoline blendstocks a year for the petroleum market, with plans to double production in 2021. The facility will be the first of the company’s sites to use its patented plastics-to-fuel conversion technology, though the three-year-old company has plans to build more plants throughout the Midwest.
• The first construction phase is slated to begin this spring, with the first job positions to be filled next summer.

Dive Insight:

Both RES Polyflow and the state of Indiana are counting on capitalizing on the plant, which the company plans to make a Midwest hub.

“With the highest concentration of manufacturing jobs in the nation, Indiana is a leader in advanced manufacturing," said Indiana Gov. Mike Pence. "That’s attracting innovative companies like RES Polyflow to bring quality new jobs to Indiana. Whether we’re producing cars, planes or new sources of energy, our Hoosier workforce is a hot commodity for companies looking to make the most of their growth."

Plant positions are expected to pay about 45% more than the Steuben County average wage. The investment will pay off, figures the company, who perceives its chosen location as a strategic one.

"The Ashley site offers many logistical advantages for our suppliers and customers which allows us to expand rapidly to achieve our 10-year growth plan,” said Jay Schabel, chief executive officer of RES Polyflow. "However, the deciding factor was the responsiveness and support shown by the people of Ashley, Steuben County and the state of Indiana. They are truly partnering with us on ... commercializing this unique technology with their sights set on the reward of creating competitive manufacturing jobs while improving the planet for existing and future generations."

Meanwhile, the company is one of a few to recently find a unique use of a surplus of plastics, while devising a patented technology or product.

To jumpstart the business endeavor and strengthen its workforce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) will pay RES Polyflow up to $900,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants, based on jobs created.