Firomar looks to relocate to Binghamton

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – A Connecticut-based green technology manufacturer is looking to relocate to Binghamton by taking over a familiar building in the city's First Ward.

Firomar has purchased the former Anitec co-gen plant at 22 Charles Street.

The facility with its iconic spiral smokestack once burned natural gas to produce electricity and steam for the defunct photographic film business.

Firomar makes prefabricated energy efficient exterior building panels for both new construction and retrofits. The lightweight, pre-insulated panels significantly reduce a building's carbon emissions.

Mayor Jared Kraham says Firomar is investing $4.6 million in building improvements and new equipment with production expected to begin early next year.

"Formerly based in Connecticut, Firomar has multi-phased plans to move all of the company's manufacturing, engineering and support operations to the First Ward. Once all phases are complete, the facility could grow to more than 100 jobs," said Kraham.

Firomar expects to hire 40 workers for its initial phase. Currently, it's working to remove much of the equipment left over from the co-generation operation.

Founder and CEO Kieran Higgins says Firomar is paving the way to a greener future.

"This facility is a testament to innovation in New York State. A shining example of what can be achieved when government and community and businesses work together. Our goal is not only to create high-quality, sustainable products, but also to generate long term employment opportunities," said Higgins.

After the former Anitec plant was demolished in 2000, Wellhead Electric Company operated a peaker plant, turning the gas turbines on to produce electricity during times of peak demand. In 2017, it sold off the turbine and donated the remainder of the facility to the city.

Firomar is receiving $3 million from NYSERDA's Advanced Buildings Program and half a million in tax credits in green-enhanced, performance based Exclesior Tax Credits from Empire State Development.