- U.S. Army Corps maintains original water permit for $7.6B EV facility
- 6.6M gallon daily water usage deemed to have 'long-term minor effect'
- Plant expansion aims for 500k annual EVs amid ongoing monitoring
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has reaffirmed its environmental approval for Hyundai's massive electric vehicle manufacturing complex near Savannah, concluding a nine-month review sparked by conservationists' concerns. Federal regulators stated the Georgia plant's projected daily water consumption – equivalent to filling 10 Olympic-sized pools – requires no modifications to its original 2022 permit. This decision comes as Hyundai accelerates production at the 2,900-acre site, which currently employs 1,200 workers.
Industry analysts note the ruling reflects growing tensions between Southern states' manufacturing boom and regional water management. EV facilities typically use 30% more water than traditional auto plants due to battery cooling systems,said environmental researcher Dr. Elena Martinez, citing a 2023 Auto Sustainability Report. Georgia's coastal aquifers, which supply agricultural and residential needs, face increased strain as industrial water demand grows 12% annually statewide.
The Ogeechee Riverkeeper organization continues questioning the Army Corps' revised impact assessment, particularly the shift from negligibleto minor long-term effectterminology. Legal director Ben Kirsch confirmed they're scrutinizing 800+ pages of newly released documents: When a federal agency changes its environmental impact wording, it warrants transparent explanation – especially for a project affecting 221 acres of wetlands.
Regional comparisons highlight the complexity: Kia's West Georgia plant, operating since 2009, uses 4.1M gallons daily and maintains a 94% water recycling rate. Hyundai's newer facility incorporates advanced filtration systems but hasn't disclosed specific conservation metrics. State officials emphasize their dual focus, stating: We're proving advanced manufacturing and agricultural needs can coexist through smart planning.
With production capacity slated to jump 66% by 2025, Hyundai's Georgia operations could influence federal environmental policies for next-generation auto plants. Recent EPA guidelines now require cumulative water impact assessments for industrial zones – a regulation implemented after this permit's initial approval. As Rivian considers a similar $5B Georgia facility, all eyes remain on how evolving standards balance economic growth with ecological stewardship.
