Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other state officials were in East Alton Wednesday morning to announce a $500 million investment by Wieland, a supplier of semi-fnished copper and copper alloy products, that will mean the retention of 800 jobs statewide and a new mill at the company’s East Alton facility.

The copper products are part of the electric vehicle supply chain for vehicles and charging facilities.

Under a new state law signed last June, Wieland is eligible for $231 million in state incentives over a 30-year period.

Pritzker said the company made it known last year that it was planning to upgrade its facilities and weighed incentives from around the country.

“Wieland, which is a global company, could have chosen to make this investment anywhere in the United States, let alone anywhere in the world. So today’s announcement is a complement to the quality of the workers here in East Alton, their dedication, the region itself and it’s proof that in the global competition to attract and retain great companies, Illinois is competing and winning,” Pritzker said.

The incentives will mean a new copper rolling mill and a new electric substation at the site, which has been in East Alton for 100 years.

“Copper is not only integral to the energy transition, it is the foundation of a sustainable future,” said Wieland CEO Dr. Erwin Mayr in a statement. “This investment positions Wieland as the undisputed leader in North American rolled products and underscores our commitment to the revitalization of American manufacturing."

The CEO also says the project will allow Wieland to significantly expand future capacity and deepen its collaboration with its customers in building a more sustainable future.

The German firm has operations in Carol Stream, Granite City, Montgomery and Tinley Park, Ill. and Cuba, Mo., among its U.S. concerns.