Area Development
AREVA, a technical resource for the nation’s nuclear energy sector, will expand its operations in Charlotte, North Carolina to include its North American headquarters. The company plans to create 130 jobs in North Carolina by the end of 2016 and invest $404,000 into its Mecklenburg County location.

With a Charlotte presence established in 2002 and global headquarters in France, AREVA provides its customers with solutions for low-carbon power generation in North America and around the world. AREVA currently employs 562 people in Charlotte and another 78 at its Columbiana Hi Tech subsidiary located in Greensboro. The company said it plans to use its new headquarters location as a platform for hiring additional engineers and other staff who will provide services to support key projects and initiatives.

“AREVA has taken the lead in the U.S. nuclear sector by investing millions to create domestic industrial capacity, which provides a tremendous boost to American energy infrastructure and the U.S. economy,” said Michael W. Rencheck, CEO of AREVA. “North Carolina is a great place to do business because of its quality of life, extensive business infrastructure, investments in workforce development and commitment to forming partnerships with industry.”

“We are working to make our state the very best place to live and do business,” said Governor Pat McCrory. “Businesses have choices, and we are proud that AREVA has chosen North Carolina for its headquarters.”

“The North Carolina Department of Commerce is committed to working with existing companies to spur job creation and growth,” said Sharon Decker, North Carolina Secretary of Commerce. “We congratulate AREVA for its success and for investing in North Carolina once again.”

“The Charlotte Chamber is honored to be a part of AREVA’s dynamic growth and commitment to our city and state. Announcements such as this provide further proof of our emerging energy hub status,” said Bob Morgan, Charlotte Chamber president.

The project was made possible in part by an award from the state Job Development Investment Grant program. Receipt of the award is based on proof of job creation and other performance requirements. Under the terms of the company’s JDIG award, AREVA is eligible to receive up to nine annual grants equal to 65 percent of the state personal income tax withholdings from the eligible new jobs created since the date of the initial award. Over nine years, the JDIG award could yield aggregate benefits to AREVA of up to $2.5 million.