### AESC Pauses Florence Battery Plant Construction Amid Policy Uncertainties

AESC, a leading global producer of high-performance batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems, has announced a temporary halt in the construction of its Florence, S.C. facility. The company cited policy and market uncertainties as the primary reasons behind this decision.

Despite the pause, AESC reassured that the 200+ employees already hired for the Florence plant will continue to be employed. The company had invested over $1 billion into this facility and plans to resume construction once the conditions stabilize.

Florence County officials noted that AESC, like many other large manufacturers across the nation, has been navigating shifts in federal policies that impact project timelines. The company remains committed to its promise of creating 1,600 jobs and investing $1.6 billion in the region.

A recent survey by AAA revealed that only 16% of Americans are likely to purchase an electric vehicle, the lowest level of interest recorded since 2019. The survey highlighted that 63% of respondents were unlikely to consider buying an electric car, a significant increase from 51% in 2022. High costs of battery repairs and vehicle prices, alongside concerns about long-distance travel suitability, were identified as key barriers.

Florence County Administrator, Kevin Yokim, emphasized that major industrial projects often encounter unforeseen challenges. He assured continued support for AESC to ensure efficient resumption of construction.

The announcement also coincides with ongoing public disputes between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk over Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill." One major point of contention has been the inclusion of a mandate requiring Americans to purchase electric vehicles, which Trump recently rescinded, leading to heightened tensions between the two figures.

In Florence, the Economic Development Partnership is actively collaborating with AESC leadership, the State of South Carolina, and BMW to clarify the revised project timeline and support the next steps forward.