Michigan Senate committee doles out $175M for Chinese-owned EV battery plant

A Michigan Senate committee granted final legislative approval to the allocation of $175 million in state funds for Chinese manufacturer Gotion's planned factory in Big Rapids.

The $2.4 billion Gotion project, which is planned on a large site in Mecosta County's Big Rapids, would create 2,350 jobs with average wages of $29.42 per hour, according to the company’s proposal. A 30-year Renaissance Zone was approved by the state last year and will save the company an additional estimated $540 million. The factory will produce cathodes and anodes, two components that are key to electric vehicle batteries.

In a statement following the committee's approval, Jim Chapman, supervisor of Green Charter Township located near Big Rapids, said the Gotion plant will be the "largest single business investment in Mecosta County history," and is a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," for the community.