COLUMBIA – The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Marion County Economic Development Commission announced Friday that Carolina AAC, LLC will locate a manufacturing facility in Marion County where the company will produce Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) for commercial and residential use.

This $17 million investment will create up to 40 jobs locally. Additionally, the company will be a catalyst for creating numerous “green” construction jobs throughout the Southeast.

Carolina AAC, LLC’s manufacturing plant is a natural extension of its marketing, distribution, installation, and development work related to Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC). AAC is a specialized lightweight masonry building material often specified by architects for use in the construction of commercial and residential structures. AAC offers an energy-efficient and fire resistant alternative to standard building materials used in the construction of load bearing and non-load bearing wall systems.

“Many municipalities are mandating that commercial and residential structures meet stringent environmental standards as part of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Energy Star, or similar certification. In fact, South Carolina became the most recent state to make LEED certification compulsory for all publically funded projects. Having a local source of a “Green” material supply that will reduce energy cost by as much as 40% should be welcomed news for customers looking to build homes, schools, libraries, hospitals or other structures. AAC is one of only a few construction materials to combine environmental certification with fire safety,” said Charles Paterno, Managing Member, Carolina AAC. “We are pleased to open our first manufacturing operation in Marion County; and we appreciate the assistance local and state officials have demonstrated.”

Although relatively new to the United States, AAC has been a preferred building material in Europe for more than 80 years. Beyond the product’s energy efficient, fire resistant, and structural attributes, it also offers significant sound proofing and mold resistance.

“Carolina AAC’s decision to locate in South Carolina is another positive sign that our efforts to improve the state’s economic soil conditions are working to promote business growth throughout the state. We remain committed to continuing these efforts to keep creating jobs, attract new investment, grow existing businesses, and create opportunity in Marion County and throughout the state,” said Gov. Mark Sanford.

The company’s site in Marion County will service customers in approximately a 300-mile radius focusing upon the Carolinas, Virginia, and surrounding states.

“Carolina AAC is bringing to the state an innovative product to meet its customers’ needs while providing an energy efficient alternative to commonly-used building supplies. South Carolina’s strategic location and quality infrastructure will allow Carolina AAC to service its customers throughout the Southeast. The company is a welcome addition to the state’s business community and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship in the years ahead,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“We are excited about Carolina AAC choosing Marion County for their new manufacturing facility. This is a top quality company that provides products which are greatly needed in the Green construction industry. The job opportunities to be created will have a significant positive impact on our community,” said Frank Jones, Executive Director, Marion County Economic Development Commission.

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