Two companies in Saginaw County recently received national recognition for their impact on the community and investment in the local economy.
Suniva and
Nexteer Automotive received 2010 Corporate Investment and Community Impact Awards from the
Trade & Industry Development magazine for projects that will create a total of about 500 new jobs, retain 2,400 existing jobs, and generate $650 million in new investment in Saginaw County. The companies were two of 15 finalists selected from a field of more than a thousand companies and projects nationwide for the award.
Suniva, a Georgia-based manufacturer of solar cells and high-power solar modules, was granted the award based on its plans to construct a $250 million plant in Thomas Township. The new plant is expected to create about 500 new jobs, and an additional 2,000 indirect jobs. The company is currently processing its Department of Energy loan guarantee application before construction is launched.
Company officials expect that the plant will produce photovoltaic cells that will have the capacity to supply more than 400 megawatts of solar power annually -- enough power to generate electricity for about 100,000 households.
Nexteer Automotive, formerly Delphi Steering, was recognized for its plans to invest in its Buena Vista facility, which was built in 1909. The $400 million investment will be used in the company's efforts to retain 2,400 jobs, and pursue new business opportunities. Nexteer is an automotive supplier that specializes in advanced steering and driveline systems technology.
The Corporate Investment and Community Impact Awards recognize companies that make significant investments in communities. Economic development organizations like
Saginaw Future and the
Michigan Economic Development Corporation also are recognized for the role they play in facilitating companies' investment in communities.
Writer: Jenny Cromie
Source: Saginaw Future, Greg LaMarr
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