SBE Inc., a manufacturer of electronic capacitor products, will construct a new 52,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Barre, Vermont, according to the Barre Montpelier Times Argus. The company plans to hire 100 new employees to produce capacitors that can be used in electric car manufacturing; it has received a $9.1 million matching grant from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds aimed at improving electric car technology. SBE spokesperson Brad Gordon tells the Times Argus that the company would have manufactured its new capacitor product in China if it were not for the federal grant; SBE made the $9.1 million required match with its own funds, incentives from the state, and assistance from private investors. Pending final local permit approvals that are expected this week, the company plans to begin construction in November, with the majority of the build taking place next spring when climate conditions are more favorable. Gordon also tells the Times Argus that future plans for a second phase of expansion, which would take place if there is high demand for the capacitor technology, include a 47,000-square-foot addition and hiring of between 300 and 500 workers.
