Startup Form Energy picked Weirton from among 500 possible locations to manufacture its forthcoming long-duration energy-storage technology. The novel iron-air battery is designed to store clean energy, affordably, for 100 hours, far more than the four or six hours of storage that lithium-ion batteries provide today.

The factory complex will create 750 jobs and invest $760 million in the community, a figure that includes $290 million of planned incentives from the state of West Virginia. The state Economic Development Authority greenlit $75 million to purchase 55 acres and build the facility; the state will retain ownership of land and buildings as a form of collateral for its other incentive contributions.

Weirton Steel Corporation, founded in 1909 by Ernest T. Weir, specialized in the production of steel, tinplate, other steel products, becoming a major player during World War II. Weirton Steel continued to prosper in the post-war period, modernizing its facilities and contributing to the economic boom. However, it faced increasing challenges in the latter half of the century, including foreign competition and economic downturns, leading to several restructurings and mergers. In 2004, Weirton Steel was acquired by International Steel Group (ISG), marking the end of its independent existence. While the original company is no longer in operation, Weirton Steel’s legacy has continued to live on and has been the backbone of future growth for Weirton. The 55-acre footprint of Form Energy’s Form Factory 1 is located atop to two of the four original site Blast Furnaces and the former Open Hearth Steel Production Area. This area, referred to as the WFC Iron Yard, will now have new life and will prosper for the next century.