- Chemours announces a $200 million investment to expand Nafion™ ion exchange material production in Villers-Saint-Paul, France.
- The investment aims to support clean hydrogen generation and the hydrogen economy.
- The expansion will create approximately 80 full-time jobs and 50 long-term contracted positions.
- The project is subject to obtaining necessary permits and licenses for construction and operations.
Investment Overview
Chemours has announced a $200 million investment to expand the production capacity of its Nafion™ ion exchange materials at its Villers-Saint-Paul facility in France. This investment aims to support the growing market demand for clean hydrogen generation, energy storage in flow batteries, and hydrogen conversion for fuel cell vehicles.
Strategic Alignment
The investment aligns with the French government's goal to create a robust hydrogen economy and the European Union's objectives for a clean energy transition as outlined in the EU Climate Law. The expansion will enhance the capabilities of Chemours' regional manufacturing site, contributing to technological advancements and new product development for the global hydrogen economy.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The site expansion is expected to create approximately 80 full-time jobs and about 50 long-term contracted positions in the Hauts-de-France region. This development underscores Chemours' commitment to responsible manufacturing and its 2030 Corporate Responsibility Commitment goal to generate 50% or more of its revenue from products that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Regulatory and Operational Details
The investment is contingent upon obtaining all necessary permits and licenses for construction and operations at the 40-hectare Villers-Saint-Paul site. The expansion will include increased ionomer production and associated membranes to boost the Nafion™ materials supply chain capacity.
Global Initiatives
Chemours' commitment to the hydrogen economy extends beyond this investment. The company is involved in various initiatives, including the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrogen Shot, regional hydrogen hub initiatives, and partnerships with academic institutions like the University of Delaware. Chemours is also an active member of industry groups such as the Hydrogen Council, Hydrogen Europe, and the Renewable Hydrogen Coalition.
