TCCI Manufacturing Launches Clean Energy Innovation Hub in Illinois
- 30-Apr-2025 10:30 PM
- Journalist: Marcel Proust
TCCI Manufacturing, a global leader in thermal management technologies, has officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art Clean Energy Innovation Hub in Decatur, Illinois. This $45 million public-private partnership, the first project supported by the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois Act (REV).
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker lauded the initiative, stating, "From workforce development to innovation to manufacturing expansion, we are building an engine of opportunity. That starts with projects like the Clean Energy Innovation Hub." He emphasized the collaborative effort between TCCI, the state government, local authorities, and higher education institutions in bringing this vision to fruition.
The expansive 260,000-square-foot facility houses three key components: an electric vehicle compressor production line, a Clean Energy Workforce Academy, and a Climatic Center for Innovation & Research (CCIR). The EV compressor production line is poised to commence operations in the coming weeks, manufacturing crucial made-in-America components for the electric vehicle market using metals like aluminium, copper and steel.
Addressing the critical need for skilled labor in the clean energy transition, TCCI has partnered with Richland Community College to launch the Clean Energy Workforce Academy. This first-of-its-kind educational model will be located within TCCI鈥檚 facility and will begin welcoming students in the fall. The academy will offer an immersive learning experience, providing hands-on training in areas such as computer science, engineering, advanced technology, natural refrigerants, and sustainable HVAC solutions.
The third pillar of the innovation hub is the Climatic Center for Innovation & Research (CCIR), slated to open in 2026. This cutting-edge research and development facility will be among the most advanced in the nation, focusing on next-generation thermal management systems and natural refrigerant technologies for electric vehicles. Its robust climatic testing capabilities will enable the development and validation of sustainable and efficient solutions.
Further bolstering the CCIR's capabilities, Illinois EPA Director James Jennings announced a $650,000 matching grant to support its expansion. This investment will enhance the center's ability to conduct real-world HVAC and thermal system simulations, perform customized testing for evolving energy standards, and accelerate the development of clean technologies. Director Jennings highlighted the project's significance, stating, "This investment reflects our shared commitment to building a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive manufacturing economy in Illinois."
Adding to its advanced testing infrastructure, the CCIR will also feature a rare publicly available EPA-certified, three-axle, 2,200-total horsepower electric chassis dynamometer. This powerful tool will support comprehensive testing for emissions compliance, energy efficiency, and performance validation of next-generation commercial and heavy-duty electric vehicles.