Louisiana emerges as key player in electric vehicle supply chain with new projects

Syrah Technologies in Vidalia, Louisiana, has become the first facility outside China to produce battery-grade graphite for electric vehicles at a commercial scale. The plant, which employs 90 workers, plans to sell 80% of its output to Tesla and aims for full production next year. In addition to Syrah, five other companies are expanding EV materials manufacturing in Louisiana, promising $2.4 billion in investments and over 600 jobs. These projects include chemical companies producing battery ingredients and a Canadian firm refining rare earth materials. The developments align with national efforts to boost domestic EV manufacturing, spurred by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. While Louisiana lacks major car manufacturers, it is establishing a niche in the EV supply chain, attracting investments due to its resources and industrial history.