Linde, a global leader in industrial gases and engineering, today announced a more than $400 million investment to construct the largest air separation unit (ASU) along the Mississippi River corridor. Located on the West Bank of Ascension Parish at the RiverPlex MegaPark, the facility will provide critical oxygen and nitrogen to support low-carbon ammonia production at Blue Point Number One—a joint venture between CF Industries, JERA, and Mitsui & Co.

The project will create 15 new direct jobs at the site, with average annual salaries exceeding 45% above the parish average wage, and will retain over 100 current positions across Louisiana. According to Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the project is expected to generate an additional 50 indirect jobs, bringing the total potential new employment impact in the Capital Region to 65.

“This announcement is yet another win for the West Bank as we build out the industrial base and bring high-wage job opportunities to the area,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “For more than 50 years, Linde has played a key role in establishing Louisiana as a global energy leader. This latest investment demonstrates our shared commitment to growing legacy industries while fostering innovation and global competitiveness.”

The new ASU will supply oxygen and nitrogen to the $4 billion Blue Point Number One facility, which is currently under development and is poised to become the world’s largest low-carbon ammonia plant once operational.
Linde has a long-standing presence in Louisiana, with facilities in Geismar, St. Charles Parish, Vidalia, Lake Charles, and Sulphur, as well as an extensive industrial pipeline network throughout the region. The Donaldsonville project builds on Linde’s 2020 launch of a state-of-the-art syngas processing plant in Geismar, further solidifying the company’s role in supporting major energy infrastructure in the state.

“This project is another example of Linde deploying its world-scale air separation technology to advance a low-carbon energy future,” said Sean Durbin, Linde Executive Vice President, North America. “We’re honored to support Blue Point’s mission and are grateful for the partnership with Louisiana Economic Development as we continue to expand our U.S. industrial gas infrastructure.”

The investment is a significant milestone for the RiverPlex MegaPark, a 17,000-acre site positioned to attract next-generation energy and manufacturing development. Alongside Blue Point Number One and Hyundai’s recently announced $6 billion steel mill, Linde’s new facility adds to the momentum transforming the region.

“This latest investment affirms the RiverPlex MegaPark’s growing role as an engine for industrial growth,” said Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment. “With three major announcements in just four months, we’re seeing long-overdue revitalization for this rural area. The West Bank is rising—and this is just the beginning.”

Construction of the new facility is expected to begin in 2026, with operations commencing in 2029.
“Industrial growth like this doesn’t happen by accident—it takes vision, planning, and collaboration,” said Kate MacArthur, President and CEO of Ascension Economic Development Corporation. “We’re excited to welcome Linde to west Ascension and deeply value their continued investment in our parish.”

Register with LED FastStart to be notified about job opportunities, hiring events and news updates.

A major new industrial development is underway in Ascension Parish, as construction has officially begun on Magnolia Ridge Logistics Park, a 186-acre industrial subdivision located at the intersection of Industriplex Avenue and LA-30 in Geismar.

Magnolia Ridge is the result of a partnership between Alexandria-based Ratcliff Development and local private equity firm JRE Capital. Once fully built out, the park is expected to offer up to 2 million square feet of mixed industrial-use space, marking a significant step forward in addressing the region’s pressing need for modern industrial infrastructure.

“Magnolia Ridge is the kind of development our region has been waiting for,” said Trey Williams, Managing Partner of JRE Capital. “We’ve already seen strong interest from companies across a range of industries, and we’re excited to provide space that will help attract new business while supporting local growth.”

Targeting bulk distribution, light manufacturing, and plant service operations, Magnolia Ridge is designed to meet the increasing demand for flexible industrial space in the Greater Baton Rouge area. With the local industrial vacancy rate sitting below 3%, this development is a timely and much-needed boost to the area’s economic landscape.

“Metro Baton Rouge has been constrained by a lack of available warehouse and industrial space for several years,” said Evan Scroggs of Lee & Associates, the listing broker for Magnolia Ridge. “This project directly addresses that gap, opening the door for both outside investment and the expansion of existing local businesses.”

Lots ranging from 2 to 18 acres are planned and are expected to be available for purchase by the end of the year. Asking prices will range from $6 to $7.50 per square foot, offering competitive options for businesses looking to establish or grow their presence in Ascension Parish.

Local leaders are optimistic about the potential ripple effects Magnolia Ridge will have on the region’s economy, workforce, and long-term development prospects.

“We’re looking forward to working together with our partners at Magnolia Ridge on bringing new opportunities to Ascension Parish,” said Kate MacArthur, President & CEO of Ascension Economic Development Corp.

For leasing information or inquiries, contact Evan Scroggs at Lee & Associates.

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the nation’s leading distributor of beverage alcohol, has officially opened its brand-new, state-of-the-art distribution center in Geismar. Local officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders are celebrating this major investment in Ascension Parish that promises to strengthen the regional economy, create quality jobs, and enhance supply chain efficiency throughout Louisiana.

Located at 6602 Industrial Drive, the 375,000-square-foot facility represents a long-term commitment to Louisiana’s economic growth and serves as a strategic anchor for Southern Glazer’s operations across the state. Built with scalability in mind, the center is positioned to support operations for decades to come.

In a statement provided by Southern Glazer’s Jason Witty, Vice President of Operations, Central Region, said, “This facility represents a pivotal investment in the future of our Louisiana operations. By increasing capacity and optimizing technology, we are strengthening our ability to serve customers with greater efficiency, ensuring they have access to the products they need when they need them.”

The facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and sustainability-focused features, including:

An upgraded conveyor system with palletizer for more efficient order fulfillment,

Climate-controlled systems designed to optimize storage and reduce energy usage,

Facility-wide LED lighting for improved energy efficiency and working conditions, and

Integration with global supply chain automation leader Dematic for scalable future growth.

“Having a company like Southern Glazer’s choose Geismar for this major expansion is a huge win for our region,” said MacArthur. “It’s a testament to the strong business climate we’ve cultivated here in Ascension Parish.”

Southern Glazer’s leaders say the new facility allows the company to improve delivery service, reduce turnaround times, and ensure better product availability for customers across Louisiana. The project also reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainable operations and top-tier service.

For more information on Southern Glazer’s operations in Louisiana, visit www.southernglazers.com.

The Ascension Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is proud to announce the development of a nearly $9 million RaceTrac distribution center in Geismar, a strategic investment that enhances the parish’s role in regional supply chain infrastructure while creating quality jobs for local residents.

The new 40,000-square-foot facility, located on Industrial Drive, is equipped with advanced technology to ensure efficient supply to RaceTrac convenience stores across the region. The distribution center will serve as a critical logistics hub, capitalizing on Geismar’s access to barge docks, rail service, and major transportation corridors within the Mississippi River industrial corridor.

RaceTrac has confirmed the facility will directly employ approximately 20 individuals in roles spanning warehouse operations, logistics, transportation, and facility management. The company also anticipates the creation of indirect jobs across supporting industries throughout Ascension Parish.

“We are excited to welcome RaceTrac’s new distribution center to our industrial community,” said Kate MacArthur, President & CEO of AEDC. “Their investment not only underscores the strategic value of Ascension Parish as a logistics hub but also strengthens our local economy through job creation and infrastructure development.”

AEDC worked with RaceTrac throughout the process, ensuring alignment with the parish’s long-term growth strategy and workforce capabilities.

This development adds to a growing list of companies choosing Ascension Parish for its strategic location, skilled labor force, and business-friendly environment.

About Ascension Economic Development Corporation (AEDC)
The Ascension Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to the long-term economic vitality of Ascension Parish, Louisiana. AEDC facilitates growth by supporting existing businesses, attracting new investment, and fostering job creation throughout the region.

CF Industries Holdings, Inc., the world’s leading producer of ammonia, along with partners JERA Co., Inc. and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., today announced a final investment decision for a $4 billion world-scale low-carbon ammonia production facility in Ascension Parish, Louisiana.

Set to become the largest of its kind globally, the new plant will be constructed on the West Bank of Ascension Parish at the RiverPlex MegaPark. This landmark project is a joint venture between CF Industries, Japan’s largest power generation company JERA, and Mitsui, a global investment powerhouse.

The facility is expected to produce and export approximately 1.4 million metric tons of low-carbon ammonia annually to international markets. It will incorporate state-of-the-art carbon capture and sequestration technologies, with carbon sequestration services provided by 1PointFive, a subsidiary of Occidental.

Economic Impact
The project will generate significant economic benefits for the Capital Region. It is projected to create 103 new high-paying permanent jobs with an average annual salary of $110,000. Additionally, Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates the creation of 312 indirect jobs, resulting in a total of 415 new employment opportunities.

“This investment shows that Louisiana continues to lead the way in energy innovation and job creation,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “With this announcement, we move even closer to achieving $50 billion in new projects since I took office. It’s a testament to our pro-growth policies and our state’s unmatched potential.”

Strategic Advantages
The Donaldsonville site was selected due to Louisiana’s skilled workforce, strategic infrastructure, abundant natural resources, and access to carbon capture capabilities. CF Industries has a long-standing presence in the state, operating the world’s largest ammonia and nitrogen facility at its existing Donaldsonville Complex since the early 1970s.

“Together with our partners, we are excited to bring the world’s most advanced low-carbon ammonia facility to Louisiana,” said Tony Will, President and CEO of CF Industries. “This region offers everything we need to deliver clean ammonia solutions at scale—from talent and resources to infrastructure and community support.”

Partnership & Support
To secure the project, LED offered a competitive incentives package, including:

LED FastStart® workforce development solutions

A $6 million performance-based grant for infrastructure

Participation in the Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs

“This is the kind of transformative win that signals Ascension Parish is on the rise,” said Kate MacArthur, President and CEO of Ascension Economic Development Corporation. “We’re building a reputation as a hub for clean energy innovation.”

The facility will be located in the same industrial park where Hyundai Steel recently announced its $6 billion clean steel facility, further solidifying RiverPlex MegaPark as a key driver of Louisiana’s advanced manufacturing future.

“Projects like this demonstrate what’s possible when industry leaders and communities collaborate,” said Susan B. Bourgeois, Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. “Louisiana is firmly establishing itself on the world stage as a leader in new energy technologies.”

Community Commitment
“CF Industries has been an outstanding partner to Ascension Parish for decades,” said Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment. “Their continued investment reflects a shared vision for a stronger, more sustainable future.”

“Entergy Louisiana is proud to power this facility and support the growth of clean energy technology,” said Phillip May, President and CEO of Entergy Louisiana. “This project reinforces the power of strategic partnerships to deliver innovation and opportunity.”

Looking Ahead
“This announcement marks a milestone in our region’s economic development journey,” said Baton Rouge Area Chamber President and CEO Lori Melancon. “We’re proud to support CF Industries and excited about the impact this project will have across the Baton Rouge area.”

Stay Connected
Those interested in job opportunities and project updates can register here to receive notifications about CF Industries’ hiring events and news.

About CF Industries
CF Industries is a global leader in the production of ammonia and other nitrogen-based products used to feed and fuel the world sustainably. With manufacturing operations across the U.S., Canada, and the UK, and a global logistics network, CF is advancing the transition to low-carbon energy. Learn more at www.cfindustries.com.

New Ultra-Low Carbon Steel Facility to Anchor RiverPlex MegaPark and Transform Regional Economy

Hyundai Motor Group has announced a groundbreaking $5.8 billion investment in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, marking a historic milestone in the state’s economic development. This first-of-its-kind facility, Hyundai’s inaugural North American steel plant, will establish a fully integrated, made-in-America supply chain to support its U.S. automotive manufacturing operations.

Located on approximately 1,700 acres in Ascension Parish’s RiverPlex MegaPark—one of the largest undeveloped tracts along the deep-water Mississippi River—the new Hyundai Steel Company (HSC) plant is poised to revolutionize steel production with cutting-edge, ultra-low carbon technology. The plant is expected to create more than 1,300 direct new jobs with an average salary of $95,000, alongside 4,100 indirect jobs, generating a total of 5,400 new opportunities in the Capital Region.

A Major Economic Win for Louisiana and Ascension Parish
The decision to anchor Hyundai’s steel production in Ascension Parish underscores the region’s competitive advantages, including its skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and strategic location along a major trade corridor. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry hailed the investment as a testament to the state’s pro-business policies and manufacturing resurgence.

“Hyundai’s decision to invest nearly $6 billion in Ascension Parish speaks volumes about Louisiana’s skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and our ability to compete for innovative manufacturing facilities,” Governor Landry said. “This announcement makes clear that Louisiana’s manufacturing sector is roaring back, thanks to our historic tax reforms, our business-friendly approach, and the many competitive advantages our state has to offer international powerhouses like Hyundai.”

Hyundai Steel: Pioneering Sustainable Manufacturing
Hyundai Steel’s electric arc furnace (EAF) mill will produce approximately 2.7 million metric tons of steel annually while cutting emissions by 70% compared to traditional blast furnaces. The facility will process 3.6 million tons of iron ore annually, with steel products distributed to Hyundai Motor Company, Kia, and other U.S. automakers.

“Hyundai Steel’s investment in an electric arc furnace (EAF) based integrated steel mill in the U.S. is anticipated to stimulate local economic growth, including the creation of new job opportunities,” Hyundai Steel Company President and CEO Gang Hyun Seo said. “We plan to supply automotive steel plates not only for Hyundai Motor and Kia’s strategic models but also to expand sales to U.S. automakers in the future.”

Port, Infrastructure, and Workforce Development
To support this transformative investment, HSC is partnering with the Port of South Louisiana to build a deep-water dock to accommodate steel and materials shipments. Entergy Louisiana is also investing in major transmission projects to ensure reliable, sustainable energy for the facility and surrounding businesses.

Recognizing the importance of workforce development, River Parishes Community College and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) will establish a new workforce training center. This center will provide hands-on instruction, skills training, and recruitment assistance, ensuring local talent is equipped for the high-paying jobs the plant will generate.

“River Parishes Community College is honored to be the lead training and workforce development partner for this groundbreaking project,” Chancellor Quintin D. Taylor said. “Today’s announcement marks a generational opportunity for Donaldsonville, the Westbank of Ascension Parish, and surrounding communities.”

Ascension Parish: A Rising Industrial Powerhouse
The Hyundai Steel investment cements Ascension Parish’s role as a premier destination for global manufacturing and innovation. With the RiverPlex MegaPark positioned for further industrial expansion, the region is primed for continued economic growth.

“Ascension is proud to support businesses that drive both progress and opportunity for our citizens,” Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment said. “This project marks a milestone in our community’s journey toward a brighter and more prosperous future for all of Ascension.”

“This transformative investment from Hyundai Steel Company is a game-changer for Ascension Parish, introducing a new industry and creating abundant high-paying job opportunities for our community,” Ascension Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Kate MacArthur said.

Looking Ahead
Construction of the HSC plant is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026. Businesses interested in staying informed about large projects announced in Louisiana can register for updates here. Residents interested in job opportunities can register for hiring notifications.

With Hyundai Steel at the forefront of next-generation, low-carbon manufacturing, Ascension Parish stands to benefit from lasting economic growth, making it a beacon of innovation and progress in Louisiana’s industrial landscape.

About Hyundai Motor Group
Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With approximately 310,000 employees worldwide, its brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. The Group strives to create a better future through innovation and sustainability. For more information, visit hyundaimotorgroup.com.

About Louisiana Economic Development (LED)
Louisiana Economic Development drives capital investment, job creation, and economic opportunity across the state. Learn more at OpportunityLouisiana.com.

GONZALES, La. – John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx LLC announced plans to build a $69 million, 285,000-square-foot facility in Ascension Parish that will house products and services designed to support key industries in Louisiana and nearby states that include oil and gas, refining chemical, power, renewable energy and pulp and paper production.

The project will establish a center for excellence that ControlWorx will use to assemble, service and distribute flow control products to industries throughout the Gulf Coast. The company is expected to create 175 direct new jobs over the next 10 years with a projected payroll of $12.5 million. The company will also retain 741 current jobs across the state. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 301 indirect new jobs, for a total of 476 potential new jobs in the Capital Region.

“This investment continues John H. Carter Co.’s longstanding commitment to ensure manufacturing and production facilities can get the products and services they need to thrive in Louisiana and across the Gulf Coast,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “This facility will ensure Louisiana’s industrial sector can operate safely and effectively by optimizing a legacy industry to lead in the future as it has in the past.”

Construction of the facility at 3088 S. Burnside Ave. in Gonzales is expected to begin in March.

“This new facility represents a generational investment in our company’s future and underscores our deep commitment to the people and communities of Louisiana,” Todd Gilbertson, CEO of John H. Carter Co., said. “As an employee-owned company, we are proud to continue growing right here at home and are especially grateful to the Louisiana Economic Development team for their invaluable support and partnership.”

Commercial operations are projected to begin in early 2027.

John H. Carter Co. began operations in 1933, and provides a wide range of process automation products, services and support for industrial, commercial and municipal customers.

“We are proud to celebrate John H. Carter Co.’s expansion into Gonzales, bringing new jobs to our community,” Gonzales Mayor Tim Riley said. “This significant investment demonstrates their confidence in our talented workforce and underscores the opportunities our city offers for businesses to grow and thrive.”

To win the project in Ascension Parish, LED offered John H. Carter Co. a competitive incentives package, including the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart. The state has also offered the company a $590,000 Economic Development Award Program grant for infrastructure improvements to the project site, subject to approval by the Louisiana Economic Development Corporation board. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.

“John H. Carter Co.’s decision to grow its operations in Ascension Parish is a huge win for our community,” said Kate MacArthur, President and CEO of Ascension Economic Development Corp. “We are proud to have played a role in making this expansion a reality and are excited to support its continued success.”

“We congratulate the John H. Carter team on their growth in Gonzales,” said Lori Melancon, Baton Rouge Area Chamber president and CEO. “Not only will this project bring 175 new jobs to our community, its services and products will benefit local manufacturers and energy companies that are fueling economic opportunity in South Louisiana.”

Register here to be notified about John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx job opportunities, hiring events and news updates.

About John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx
Founded in 1933, John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx, LLC provides a wide range of process automation products, services, and support for industrial, commercial, and municipal customers. In 1998, the company became 100% employee-owned. The company currently employs over 800 employees in 14 locations throughout the Gulf Coast region. Corporate headquarters are located in Baton Rouge. Learn more at JohnHCarter.com.

About LED
Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for driving capital investment, job creation and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes. Explore how LED is positioning Louisiana to win at OpportunityLouisiana.com.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.3 million grant to Ascension Parish Government in Gonzales, Louisiana, for roadway infrastructure improvements at the RiverPlex MegaPark.

This grant will support clean energy business growth in the region. This EDA investment will be matched with $586,857 in local funds and is expected to create more than 450 jobs and generate $9.5 billion in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is a commitment to ensuring that communities in Louisiana and across the country have the resources needed to grow strong, resilient regional economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will increase growth in the clean energy sector, create quality, high-paying jobs, and increase economic opportunity for workers in the region.”

“The Economic Development Administration works closely with local communities to support place-based economic growth,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This investment in Ascension Parish will attract clean energy manufacturers and distributors, creating hundreds of jobs and developing a robust regional economy.”

“This grant represents a significant commitment from the federal government to foster clean energy business growth in Louisiana. Investing in roadway infrastructure improvements at the RiverPlex MegaPark will boost local economic diversification, create over 450 jobs, and generate an anticipated $9.5 billion of private investment. This forward-looking approach to economic resilience emphasizes regional collaboration and the EDA’s commitment to sustainable development and job creation,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Capital Region Planning Commission (CRPC). EDA funds CRPC to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

This project is funded under the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided EDA with $483 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas that received a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Act as a result of Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022. Please visit EDA’s Disaster Supplemental webpage for more information.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.
Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, edamedia@eda.gov

GONZALES, LA — Ascension Economic Development Corporation is proud to announce its recent accolade of ‘Small Market of the Year’ for outstanding achievements in economic development projects in 2022, receiving commendation and recognition from Southern Business & Development magazine. This prestigious honor highlights AEDC’s commitment to driving economic growth, creating job opportunities, and fostering prosperity in the Ascension community.

“We are honored to receive this recognition, acknowledging our efforts in economic development and creating opportunities for growth,” said Kate MacArthur, President & CEO. “This achievement is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our team, partners, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to bring these projects to fruition.”

Helping secure Ascension’s top ranking are industrial projects that include Ascension Clean Energy’s proposed $7.5 billion clean ammonia project and the CF Industries $2 billion proposed clean ammonia project in West Ascension along with Origin Material’s $750 million carbon negative materials project and BASF’s $780 million expansion in Geismar.

Award categories are defined by population size and points are determined by project announcements in relation to population. Small Market of the Year represents a population of 50,000 to 250,000. The Baton Rouge Region gained Honorable Mention honors for Major Market of the Year in the SB&D 100 issue, for metros of 750,000 to 2.5 million residents. The state of Louisiana also received Honorable Mention honors. Cameron Parish received special recognition in the ‘Rural Market’ category (population under 50,000).

View the 2022 SB&D 100 Top Deals and Special Recognition at sb-d.com.

About AEDC
Ascension Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is a leading force in economic development, dedicated to creating sustainable growth and fostering prosperity in Ascension Parish, Louisiana. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AEDC has successfully implemented a range of projects generating over $9.1 billion in capital investment and creating over 3,000 jobs that contribute to the economic vitality of the community. Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to excellence, AEDC continues to shape the economic landscape of Ascension Parish. For more information, visit ascensionedc.com.

MODESTE, La. – CF Industries Holdings, Inc., the world’s largest producer of ammonia, announced it is evaluating the feasibility of constructing a low-carbon clean ammonia production plant at its Blue Point Complex in Ascension Parish. The proposed new facility is expected to cost over $2 billion and would be developed jointly by CF Industries and POSCO Holdings, South Korea’s largest steelmaker.

If the project moves forward as outlined, CF Industries expects to create 50 direct new jobs with average annual salaries of more than $106,000, while retaining 541 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project would result in an additional 177 new indirect jobs, for a total of 227 potential new jobs in the Capital Region.

“CF Industries is a global leader in the decarbonization of industrial processes and we are excited that they are considering additional investments in Louisiana to support these efforts,” Gov. John Bel Edwards said. “I thank CF Industries for continuing to recognize Louisiana’s unique advantages for energy and manufacturing innovation, and look forward to supporting the creation of quality, high-paying jobs for our state’s skilled workforce if the project moves forward.”

The companies are exploring the use of autothermal reforming (ATR) ammonia production technology for the proposed facility. ATR technology, when combined with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the ammonia production process by more than 90% compared to conventional plants without CCS.

“We believe that low-carbon ammonia will play a critical role in accelerating the world’s transition to clean energy, and this proposed new project confirms the global impact we can have in decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries,” CF Industries President and CEO Tony Will said. “We appreciate the partnership we have had with the state of Louisiana and Ascension Parish over the years as we have expanded our operations, taken industry-leading steps to decarbonize our existing assets and now as we explore new, low-carbon ammonia production capacity. We look forward to working with them further as we evaluate this proposed facility that could further the growth of decarbonized industry in the state.”

CF Industries and POSCO expect to complete an initial front-end engineering design (FEED) study on the proposed site in the second half of 2024 and make a final investment decision for the project shortly thereafter. Construction and commissioning of a new world-scale capacity ammonia plant typically takes approximately four years from that point.

“The potential location of CF Industries’ low-carbon ammonia manufacturing plant marks another significant milestone in our journey toward a sustainable future,” Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment said. “A future will offer new job opportunities and skill development that will enhance the employability of our community members and an increased tax revenue stream that will improve public services, infrastructure, safety and healthcare. Together, we’re sowing the seeds of a cleaner, greener tomorrow.”

The project under consideration is part of CF Industries’ commitment to produce ammonia for clean energy applications while decarbonizing its ammonia production process. In 2022, it announced two major projects in Louisiana; a $198.5 million plan to add carbon capture and sequestration capability to its existing ammonia production facility in Donaldsonville and a proposed $2 billion world-scale low-carbon ammonia production facility in Ascension Parish.

“In Ascension Parish, we embrace innovation and progress,” said Kate MacArthur, President and CEO, Ascension Economic Development Corporation. “We are thrilled that CF Industries and POSCO are considering this opportunity here. This project not only promises economic growth but also underscores our dedication to preserving our environment for generations to come.”

To support the project in Ascension, the state of Louisiana has prepared a competitive incentives package that would include the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart and a $3 million performance-based grant for infrastructure and project development contingent upon meeting capital investment and payroll targets. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs if the project moves forward as planned.

“We are thrilled CF Industries is considering another major investment in Louisiana’s Capital Region with its proposed new low-carbon ammonia facility,” said Adam Knapp, Baton Rouge Area Chamber President and CEO. “Committed to accelerating the world’s transition to clean energy, CF Industries’ continued consideration showcases our region’s ability to lead on the future of energy.”

About CF Industries
CF Industries’ mission is to provide clean energy to feed and fuel the world sustainably. With employees focused on safe and reliable operations, environmental stewardship and disciplined capital and corporate management, it is on a path to decarbonize ammonia production network – the world’s largest – to enable green and blue hydrogen and nitrogen products for energy, fertilizer, emissions abatement and other industrial activities. Manufacturing complexes in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, an unparalleled storage, transportation and distribution network in North America and logistics capabilities enabling a global reach underpin the company’s strategy to leverage unique capabilities to accelerate the world’s transition to clean energy. Learn more at CFIndustries.com.