Charleston, SC, February 8, 2026
Century Aluminum’s Mt. Holly smelter in Berkeley County is about to reach full operational capacity following a significant investment of approximately $50 million. This expansion, driven by strategic economic policies and partnerships, is expected to create over 100 new jobs while contributing more than $890 million annually to South Carolina’s economy. Such developments highlight the resilience of the state’s manufacturing sector and the necessity of private investment in fostering economic growth.
Charleston, SC
Major Investment Propels Mt. Holly Aluminum to Full Capacity
Century Aluminum’s Mt. Holly facility in Berkeley County is set to achieve full operational capacity, marking a significant boost for South Carolina’s industrial landscape and economy.
South Carolina’s industrial landscape is witnessing a notable resurgence as the Mt. Holly aluminum smelter, located in Berkeley County, embarks on a significant expansion. This facility, recognized as one of the youngest primary aluminum smelters in the United States, is undergoing a substantial investment to bring its operations to full capacity. This development underscores the enduring strength of manufacturing in the region and highlights the power of private investment and strategic policy in fostering economic growth.
The commitment by Century Aluminum to inject considerable capital into its Berkeley County operations not only secures existing jobs but also promises to create new opportunities, reflecting the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit present in the state’s industrial sector. Such strategic moves are vital for maintaining a robust local economy, creating high-value jobs, and bolstering domestic production capabilities.
A Significant Turnaround for South Carolina Industry
Century Aluminum Company has announced plans to restart over 50,000 metric tons of idled production at its Mt. Holly smelter in South Carolina. This initiative involves an investment of approximately $50 million, with the goal of bringing the plant to full production by June 30, 2026. This level of operation has not been seen since 2015. The plant has been operating at 75% capacity since 2022, following a project in 2020 that restored some curtailed production. This restart is projected to create over 100 new jobs in the Lowcountry region, signaling a positive trend for Charleston SC business and employment.
Boosting the Lowcountry Economic Growth
The Mt. Holly smelter, at its full operational capacity, is capable of producing up to 230,000 metric tons of aluminum per year. A 2024 study conducted by the University of South Carolina highlighted the substantial economic contribution of the Mt. Holly smelter, estimating an annual economic impact of over $890 million on the South Carolina economy when operating at full capacity. Furthermore, the jobs directly supported by Century Aluminum at the Mt. Holly facility offer average wages of $100,000, significantly contributing to the personal achievement and financial well-being of local families. This expansion reinforces the importance of large-scale private investment in driving regional prosperity and supporting high-wage employment in the Charleston County economy.
Impact of Economic Policy and Strategic Partnerships
The decision to expand production at Mt. Holly is largely attributed to specific economic policies designed to support domestic manufacturing. Notably, the application of Section 232 tariffs on primary aluminum imports, which were recently increased to 50%, played a role in improving the economic viability of domestic production. This policy environment aims to level the playing field for South Carolina entrepreneurs and other American producers. Critical to the plant’s sustained operation and expansion is its energy supply. The restart was also enabled by a preliminary agreement with the South Carolina Public Service Authority (Santee Cooper) to extend the power contract for the Mt. Holly facility through 2031. Securing competitive and reliable energy is a cornerstone for heavy industries, allowing for long-term planning and investment.
Technological Advancement and Production Excellence
The Mt. Holly facility stands out as one of the most advanced aluminum smelters in the United States. It is a recognized leader in production efficiency, energy utilization, and environmental protection within the industry. The smelter is equipped with casting technology to convert molten aluminum into various products, including standard-grade ingot, sow, extrusion billet, and other value-added primary aluminum products, which are sold at a premium. The plant proudly holds the distinction of being the first primary aluminum plant in the world to be fully registered to the ISO 9001 Quality System Standard. This commitment to quality and operational excellence showcases the innovative spirit driving American manufacturing and its competitive edge in the global market.
Future Prospects for Domestic Aluminum Production
Beyond the Mt. Holly expansion, Century Aluminum has indicated a broader interest in strengthening domestic aluminum production. The company is exploring the possibility of building a new smelter, a project that could potentially double the size of the existing U.S. aluminum industry and create more than 1,000 jobs nationwide. While a specific site for a new facility has not yet been selected, this vision signals a long-term commitment to enhancing America’s industrial capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign supplies. Such ambitions highlight the potential for further economic growth and job creation, benefiting South Carolina entrepreneurs and the wider national economy.
The revitalization of the Mt. Holly aluminum plant in Berkeley County serves as a compelling example of how strategic investment, coupled with supportive economic policies and robust local partnerships, can stimulate significant economic growth. This expansion contributes directly to the Charleston County economy, providing high-paying jobs and substantial economic impact for the entire state. As this essential industry enters a new chapter of full production, it underscores the positive trajectory for South Carolina’s manufacturing sector.
We encourage our readers to recognize the profound impact of local businesses and industrial innovation on our community. Supporting industries that drive job creation and economic stability is crucial for fostering continued Lowcountry economic growth and ensuring a prosperous future for all. Stay engaged with HERECharleston.com for more updates on developments shaping our local economy.
FAQ
What is the Mt. Holly aluminum smelter?
The Mt. Holly aluminum smelter, located in Berkeley County, South Carolina, is a primary aluminum production facility operated by Century Aluminum Company. It is recognized as one of the youngest primary aluminum smelters in the United States and is known for its advanced production efficiency.
What is the recent development at the Mt. Holly plant?
Century Aluminum Company has announced plans to restart over 50,000 metric tons of idled production at its Mt. Holly smelter, aiming to achieve full production by June 30, 2026. This involves an investment of approximately $50 million.
How many jobs will the expansion create?
The restart and expansion at the Mt. Holly plant are projected to create over 100 new jobs.
What is the economic impact of the Mt. Holly smelter at full capacity?
A 2024 University of South Carolina study found that at full capacity, the Mt. Holly smelter has an economic impact of over $890 million annually on the South Carolina economy. Jobs directly supported by Century Aluminum at the facility average wages of $100,000.
What factors contributed to the decision to increase production?
The decision was influenced by the application of Section 232 tariffs on primary aluminum imports, which were increased to 50%. Additionally, a preliminary agreement with the South Carolina Public Service Authority (Santee Cooper) to extend the power contract through 2031 was crucial.
Key Features of the Mt. Holly Aluminum Smelter Expansion
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Berkeley County, South Carolina | State-level |
| Company | Century Aluminum Company | Specific to Plant |
| Investment Amount | Approximately $50 million | Specific to Plant |
| Target Full Production Date | June 30, 2026 | Specific to Plant |
| New Jobs Created | Over 100 | Specific to Plant |
| Annual Production Capacity (Full) | Up to 230,000 metric tons | Specific to Plant |
| Annual Economic Impact (Full Capacity) | Over $890 million in South Carolina | State-level |
| Average Wages (Direct Jobs) | $100,000 | Specific to Plant |
| Key Enabling Factor 1 | Section 232 tariffs (50% on primary aluminum imports) | Nationwide Policy, State-level Impact |
| Key Enabling Factor 2 | Power contract extension with Santee Cooper through 2031 | State-level |
| Plant Distinction | Most advanced plant of its kind in the United States; First primary aluminum plant in the world registered to ISO 9001 Quality System Standard | Nationwide / Global |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
