As part of a more than $1 billion modernization commitment across its footprint, Southwire reports that its state-of-the art rod plant in Carrollton, Georgia, will have been completed by the end of 2022, with a grand opening to be held in early 2023.

A press release said that the new plant, which replaces a 40-year-old facility, will increase copper rod production by at least 10%. “Our goal as a company is to be generationally sustainable, and the construction of this plant is a key milestone on that journey. This is a significant investment in our future,” said Southwire President and CEO Rich Stinson. “We are proud of our industry-leading influence, and this new facility will set a higher global standard for sustainability and efficiency in rod manufacturing. It’s a great time to be in the electrical industry and an even better time to be at Southwire.”

In 1963, the company patented Southwire Continuous Rod (SCR®) technology, which transformed the wire and cable industry. More than half of all copper rod in the world has passed through a SCR system in some capacity. The new rod plant will produce more copper rod than any other SCR system, while encompassing a smaller environmental footprint.

As the company continues its focus on sustainability, Southwire is partnering with Carroll EMC to use all renewable electricity for the facility. Southwire will work to not just meet, but exceed, state air quality requirements through its focus on air emissions controls, including the installation of a “wet scrubber” system. The facility will also continue to capture 100 percent of the stormwater runoff for reuse in the company’s manufacturing processes.

 “Our team is thrilled to evolve the modern assets and technology that have made Southwire an industry leader while, at the same time, advance our values of empowerment, trust, consistency and inclusion,” said Senior Vice President of Modernization Will Berry. “This new plant illustrates our long-standing commitment to sustainable growth.”