ASHLAND, KY (February 17, 2026) – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) joined executives from ACP Technologies (ACPT) and ExxonMobil on Tuesday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new production facility in Ashland. This pilot facility will be used to produce carbon-based materials that ExxonMobil plans to use as a precursor for battery grade graphite, strengthening the nation’s production of critical minerals for lithium-ion batteries, which can be used in electric vehicles, data centers, aerospace and defense.

“Eastern Kentucky innovation is leading the nation once again, giving us the opportunity to display the power of our engineering excellence and how it can be used with new emerging technologies,” said Congressman Rogers, Dean of the House. “It’s even more exciting to know that this technology was birthed in Ashland by a native of Grayson, Kentucky, the late Donald P. Malone. It was an honor to celebrate the fruition of his handiwork, alongside his family today.”

“Today marks a truly culminating milestone for ACP Technologies and reflects years of dedication, innovation, and partnership,” said Kevin Mulrenin, President of ACP Technologies. “This pilot plant represents the next step of our vision to bring advanced carbon materials manufacturing to commercial scale in the United States. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Rogers for his longstanding and unwavering support of our company and our mission. His leadership has been instrumental in helping make this facility a reality. We also extend our sincere appreciation to ExxonMobil for their collaboration and technical partnership in bringing this production capability to fruition. Together, we are laying the foundation for continued innovation, job creation, and American leadership in advanced materials.”

Congressman Rogers secured federal funding that helped develop the technology that serves as the foundation of this pilot plant. It will create upwards of 20 new jobs, and the facility will employ approximately 30 people. 

Ashland’s new facility is part of ExxonMobil’s efforts to develop an American supply chain for synthetic graphite, reinforcing the state’s leadership in energy innovation.

“We’re opening a new facility, and we’re opening the door to new possibilities, new manufacturing capability, new technological leadership, and a stronger, more secure energy future for the United States,” said Dave Andrew, ExxonMobil New Market Development Vice President. “Our work across the state will support high-skilled jobs, bring new manufacturing capability online, and help position Kentucky as a leader in advanced battery materials.”

The ribbon-cutting signifies a pivotal step forward for domestic graphite production.

For more information about Congressman Rogers’ work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.