It’s hard to overestimate how big a deal it is that Panasonic chose Kansas to build a new plant to manufacture lithium-ion batteries.
At a minimum, the deal means a $4 billion investment and 4,000 jobs.
When all is said and done, however, it will mean closer to 8,000 new jobs because of the subsidiary suppliers needed to support a new industry of this size as well as the inherent expansion of community businesses.
The ripple effect will be far and wide. An estimated 16,500 construction jobs alone will be created by Panasonic’s coming, according to an economic impact study conducted by Wichita State University.
The employees will also be needing food, clothing, and healthcare; some will have children who attend area schools and participate in sports, take music lessons and join 4-H.
In short, it will usher in unprecedented economic prosperity “for generations to come,” predicted De Soto Mayor Rick Walker.
The De Soto plant will be one of the largest electric vehicle battery manufacturing facilities of its kind in the United States. For Kansas, it’s the largest economic development project in its 161-year history.
“We will be the production epicenter for batteries that will power the increasing demand for a more sustainable world,” said Gov. Laura Kelly at Wednesday’s official announcement.
That the manufacturer is looking to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint is especially appealing to young families. More and more, workers are choosing careers — and locations — that align with environmental consciences.
David Campbell, president and CEO of Evergy, predicts the electric vehicle market can be expected to grow “10 times in less than 10 years.”
Also on hand were Sen. Jerry Moran and Tim Cowden, head of the Kansas City Area Development Council.
“I can’t wait to read tomorrow’s Wall Street Journal announcing this news,” Moran crowed. I can’t wait to read tomorrow’s Wall Street Journal announcing this news.Sen. Jerry Moran
“Kansas is being recognized around the world for our talented workforce, innovative environment and quality of life,” he said. “With the goal of making Kansas a destination for industry, defense, education, science, technology, engineering, and innovation, we will keep our students, their knowledge and intellect in Kansas.”
That’s important. In the last 10 years Kansas has grown by only 0.29%, one of the slowest growing states in the country.
