Ridgeland Pellet Company plans to launch new manufacturing operations in Ridgeland, South Carolina. The company’s $8.1 million investment is projected to create 27 new jobs over the next five years in Jasper County.

A manufacturer of wood pellets used in home heating fuel, alternative industrial energy and equine bedding, Ridgeland Pellet Company will purchase an existing manufacturing facility located at 579 Nimmer Turf Road in Ridgeland.

The company will be making improvements to existing buildings and expanding its capabilities with additional structures, machinery and equipment. Ridgeland Pellet Company’s new operations are expected to come online later this quarter.

“Ridgeland Pellet Company, LLC will manufacture biomass fuel pellets in the Ridgeland community for export to European markets pursuant to a long-term contract. We are excited about the opportunity to help grow existing industry in Jasper County, as well as the nearby port infrastructure and the proximity of this project to a number of sawmills that will provide the necessary wood chips and other raw materials for our company,” said Ridgeland Pellet Company CEO Charles W. Knight.

“We are proud to celebrate Ridgeland Pellet Company’s investment in South Carolina and our people. Anytime a company is able to set up shop here, it proves what we already know, that we have one of the most competitive business environments in the world and a workforce that can get the job done,” Governor Henry McMaster said.

“We’re always excited to see companies investing in our state and specifically in our rural areas, such as Jasper County. Today’s announcement is a testament to the thriving business climate that we’ve created in South Carolina, which gives new companies the best opportunity to succeed,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“We welcome Ridgeland Pellet Company to our county’s industrial community. Their $8.1 million investment and the new jobs they will create over the next five years will be a boon to our local economy, helping to lower the overall tax burden on our citizens’ residences and automobiles. Jasper County Council will continue to work with our new and existing industries to create the best possible environment for business,” Jasper County Council Chairman Tom Johnson noted.

“Ridgeland Pellet Company is a green industry, manufacturing an alternative fuel product that will create new jobs in our rural area. The company will be a great asset to our region, where forest products are a critical part of our regional economy. We congratulate the company on choosing Ridgeland, where every job created brings prosperity to a family,” noted SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Marty Sauls.