Look Who it Was Random video

Wacker Chemi Delays Production Start "Until mid-2015"

289 views · Published 25 October 2012 · 2:35 · Indexed 19 October 2026

Channel: WTVC NewsChannel 9 · 2012 · News & Politics

Watch on YouTube

by Alyssa Spirato  A nearly two-billion dollar Bradley County plant is slowing down production. The reason? Supply and demand, or lack there of in the solar industry.But county administrators say they're not worried about Wacker Chemie, and believe the issue is only a short term problem to a long term solution.Nestled in a little corner in Charleston sits Willie's Barbeque. A small-town restaurant that brings visitors with big appetites. It's also a business that relies on word of mouth to get by."We're very friendly here and we thrive to make sure that our food comes out right to perfection," says Manager, Saliena Sizemore.They're excited about the customers coming from the Wacker-Chemie plant just down the road. But Willie's may have to wait a while longer for a bigger boost, as the plant's opening has been delayed. Wacker officials citing the ever changing solar market conditions, and an abundance of the polysilicon it would produce."It's important we realize that the investment is not changed, the scale of the project has not changed, the employment levels have not changed, the only change is a shift from fast track construction, to a normal schedule," says Douglas Berry, Vice President of Economic Development with the Bradley County Chamber of Commerce.Another forseeable change, staffing. This means the promised 600 jobs will come just a little bit later. The good news is those that have already been hired will stay."While we're concerned about people getting a job today, we also have to think about anchor companies like this on a large time horizon,"says Berry.Berry says a lot has changed since construction began last year, but believes Wacker is still on the right track.Berry says the new positions will remain, and those that are newly hired will be placed in different roles until the final phase is underway.

More from this channel