In a significant move towards bolstering clean energy manufacturing, LuxWall, Inc., based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, has been selected to receive $31.7 million from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish the country's first high-volume, automated vacuum insulated glass production plant in Southwest Detroit. The LuxWall project is part of a larger initiative, with seven companies nationally sharing $275 million from the DOE to fortify clean energy supply chains and stimulate domestic clean energy manufacturing, particularly in former coal communities.
The LuxWall facility, slated for construction in Detroit's Delray neighborhood on the site of a former coal plant, is expected to create 277 local jobs. The project is poised to breathe new life into the Delray neighborhood, historically affected by heavy industry and pollution. Beyond job creation, LuxWall has committed to a community benefits agreement, ensuring local residents receive windows, training, and apprenticeship programs. The company also intends to conduct a survey to address resident concerns about job disruption and potential environmental impacts, and also to involve the community in decision-making processes.
In addition to the economic benefits, LuxWall's energy-efficient windows address a critical environmental concern. Buildings, responsible for 36% of global energy consumption and 39% of CO2 emissions, can benefit greatly from LuxWall's products. Their windows claim 45% more heat retention in winter and 60% more cooling retention in summer compared to conventional windows.
LuxWall, backed by investors including Bill Gates-founded Breakthrough Energy, Prelude Ventures, Baruch Future Ventures, 2150, and Khosla Ventures, plans to open a second Michigan facility, bringing the total investment in the state to $165.6 million and creating 453 jobs.
However, it's crucial to note that the selection for funding doesn't guarantee disbursement, as the seven projects, including LuxWall, will undergo a negotiation process with the Department of Energy. The DOE plans to expedite another investment round in the manufacturing sector, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening clean energy supply chains and revitalizing energy communities across the nation.