Nicor Gas joins Governor JB Pritzker to welcome $2 billion EV battery manufacturing plant to Illinois

NAPERVILLE, IL – September 8, 2023 – Today, Nicor Gas President and CEO Wendell Dallas joined Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, ComEd CEO Gil Quiniones and other economic development leaders and dignitaries to welcome Gotion’s new state-of-the-art $2 billion electric vehicle (EV) lithium battery manufacturing plant to Manteno. The plant is expected to bring more than 2,600 jobs to the community.

Gotion's decision was bolstered by an REV Illinois (Reimagining Energy and Vehicles) incentive package and the new Invest in Illinois fund.

“Today, we take another leap forward, announcing the largest electric vehicle battery production investment in Illinois to date. It’s my pleasure to welcome a world-leading battery manufacturer — Gotion — to Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This announcement is a testament to Illinois status as a leading destination for companies and investors who want the most talented workers, the best transportation systems, and a collaborative economic growth mindset from their partners in government at all levels. With 2,600 new jobs, a $2 billion gigafactory, and the most significant new manufacturing investment in Illinois in decades — it’s the most recent proof that we are in a new paradigm. Illinois is on the rise, and we’re open for business.”

Nicor Gas’ Community & Economic Development, Customer Solutions, System Planning and New Business teams played an integral role in securing Gotion’s site selection in the state. Nicor Gas will be the natural gas provider of the site in Kankakee County, ensuring that production can begin at the plant in 2024 as originally planned.

“At Nicor Gas, we are proud to serve the Manteno community and are excited to welcome Gotion as they expand their state-of-the-art battery and energy storage operations into Illinois,” said Wendell Dallas, President and CEO of Nicor Gas. “We look forward to working with the State of Illinois and economic development partners with an ‘all of the above’ net-zero energy mix that will result in manufacturing jobs coming to Kankakee County.”

Natural gas is integral to meeting Gotion’s initial load and Nicor Gas is in the process of making system infrastructure improvements to meet any expanded load required moving forward.

In his remarks at Friday’s program, Dallas went on to share that the expansion of electric vehicles is a key strategy to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and that Nicor Gas is fully committed to working towards net zero in the company’s operations while delivering service that is critical to Illinois’ clean energy economy.

“We believe in an “all of the above” energy strategy, where natural gas, electricity, renewables and nuclear energy work together to provide the best solutions,” he said. “As we embark on this journey together, we will prioritize safety, sustainability and innovation at every level. The road ahead is exciting; we look forward to long-lasting relationships with everyone in this room, as we work together to provide a bright future for generations to come.”

View more on the announcement.