News Summary
Georgia-Pacific is set to invest $800 million to modernize its Alabama River Cellulose mill in Monroe County, transforming it into the largest softwood pulp mill in the U.S. The project will enhance operational efficiency, increase production capacity, and improve environmental performance. This significant investment, along with past expenditures, highlights the company’s commitment to the local economy, contributing jobs and financial benefits. Anticipated completion is scheduled for 2027, reflecting ongoing efforts to innovate within the forest products industry.
Perdue Hill, Alabama – Georgia-Pacific has announced a substantial investment of $800 million aimed at modernizing and expanding its Alabama River Cellulose mill, situated in Monroe County. This strategic move is set to transform the facility into the largest softwood pulp mill in the United States. The project is scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025 and is projected to be completed by 2027.
The planned upgrades at the Alabama River Cellulose mill include the installation of a state-of-the-art digester, a new pulp dryer, and a more efficient power boiler, along with modifications to existing production systems. These enhancements are expected to boost operational efficiency substantially and increase the mill’s production capacity by approximately 300 tons per day. Currently, the mill produces close to 1 million tons of fluff and market pulp each year, materials commonly found in consumer products such as baby diapers, facial tissues, kitchen towels, and various paper goods.
Economic Impact and Investments
Since acquiring the Alabama River Cellulose mill in 2010, Georgia-Pacific has invested over $700 million into the facility, including an $80 million investment made in 2022 to expand its fluff pulp capacity. Following the latest announcement, total investments in the mill will surpass $1.5 billion. This extensive financial commitment highlights Georgia-Pacific’s ongoing dedication to enhancing its operations in Alabama.
The investment is expected to provide a significant economic boost to Monroe County, with local officials expressing optimism regarding the positive impact on the region’s workforce and business climate. The mill is a key employer in the area, employing around 2,400 individuals and supporting an additional 9,060 indirect jobs across Alabama, generating approximately $710 million in labor income.
Environmental Considerations
In addition to boosting production and operational efficiency, the planned upgrades are also designed to enhance the mill’s environmental performance. The project aims to reduce water consumption, lower emissions, and improve overall energy efficiency, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainability within the industry.
Broader Industry Contributions
Beyond its direct employment contributions, the Alabama River Cellulose mill plays a vital role in the local economy. Together, Georgia-Pacific’s operations in the region contribute more than $188 million in compensation and benefits to over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs. Acknowledging its significant presence in Alabama, Georgia-Pacific has invested more than $2.5 billion in capital improvements and acquisitions throughout the state over the past decade.
Georgia-Pacific’s investment is also in line with ongoing efforts to strengthen Alabama’s forest products sector and promote advanced manufacturing practices. The company’s commitment to modernizing the Alabama River Cellulose mill demonstrates confidence in both the local workforce and the overall business environment in the state. Local authorities have expressed gratitude for Georgia-Pacific’s longstanding role as a key employer and community supporter, reinforcing the company’s importance to the region’s economic framework.
As Georgia-Pacific prepares for this transformative project, the anticipation surrounding the enhancements reflects the broader trends within the forest products industry, where innovation and sustainability have become pivotal for future growth and competitiveness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Made in Alabama: Georgia-Pacific’s $800 Million Investment
- PR Newswire: Georgia-Pacific’s Capital Investment Announcement
- The Bama Buzz: Alabama River Mill Investment
- Business Alabama: Monroe County Mill Expansion
- Wikipedia: Pulp Mill
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
