Cache Energy to invest $2.5 million to build Illinois factory

Cache Energy announced October 29 it would spend $2.5 million to build a Champaign, Illinois manufacturing plant and hire 20 people. The new expansion will add a new production line for Cache’s novel energy storage system, which stores energy chemically in lime pellets produced from limestone.

According to a joint release from Cache Energy and the Illinois Governor’s office, the expansion is partially funded by a grant from the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois program. As part of the terms of the grant, Cache will purchase specialized equipment from vendors in Illinois.

Cache Energy says that it plans to store energy for long periods by processing lime powder into pellets, which react with water in a reactor to produce heat and steam. According to the company, these pellets can stably store energy for longer and cheaper than commonplace lithium-ion batteries.

It’s not the first recent investment in alternative forms of energy development and storage to move into the state: in early October, the Illinois governor announced that Nano Nuclear Energy Inc. would expand its Chicago metropolitan manufacturing site, using money from the same REV Illinois fund.

In a statement, Governor Pritzker said Illinois is aiming to lead the country in development of novel energy manufacturing systems.

What people are saying

"We have a bold vision for the future – one where low-cost, reliable energy is accessible to every American," stated Arpit Dwivedi, Founder of Cache Energy. "I’m proud to stand with my team and the State of Illinois as we launch this great partnership. Together, through Cache, we’re creating high-quality jobs and advancing cutting-edge energy projects right here in Illinois. This further strengthens our commitment to a fully domestic energy supply chain, reinforcing both Illinois and America's leadership in energy security and resilience."

“Illinois is proudly leading the way in the clean energy revolution with new jobs, economic growth, and groundbreaking progress in the clean energy manufacturing sector,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m pleased to see Cache Energy expand its operations right here in Illinois, and I applaud the company’s innovative approach to renewable energy storage as Illinois takes bold steps toward a more sustainable future.”

"Through the REV Illinois program, we are enhancing the state’s position as a national leader in clean energy innovation and manufacturing with a strong focus on fostering deeper partnerships with higher education institutions," said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "By investing in collaboration with academic institutions, we are creating high-quality jobs, advancing sustainable technologies, and driving long-term economic growth to build a greener, more resilient future for Illinois."

Manufacturers investing in Illinois

Rockford Brake Manufacturing spends $6.6 million to reopen shuttered factory, hire 150
Four former employees of the Gunite Corporation bought its old location for their startup.

Pure Lithium Corp. battery co opens new Chicago HQ, announces pilot production line
The company hopes to supplant lithium-ion batteries with superior lithium-metal batteries.

J.L. Clark invests $10M to expand custom packaging manufacturing facility in Illinois
The company plans to grow its Rockford workforce by 40% over the next year through a mix of salary, hourly, and temporary positions. 

Investing in American manufacturing in 2025 

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