DOVER, Del. — Aternium has selected Dover, Delaware, as the preferred location for its flagship clean hydrogen and heavy water production facility, marking a significant step in the state’s emergence as a hub for advanced energy manufacturing and next-generation industrial technologies.
The project follows the Dover City Council’s approval of zoning amendments allowing hydrogen production facilities within designated industrial districts—an important milestone that positions Delaware’s capital to compete for investment in one of the nation’s fastest-growing advanced manufacturing sectors.
Once operational, the facility will produce high-purity clean hydrogen and deuterium (heavy water), materials essential to energy, advanced manufacturing, research, aerospace, defense, and emerging industrial applications. The investment further strengthens Delaware’s growing portfolio of innovation-driven industries while supporting domestic supply chain resilience for strategically important materials.
“Delaware continues to demonstrate the leadership necessary to attract transformative industries,” said Dr. Andrew Cottone, Founder and CEO of Aternium. “Dover provides the infrastructure, workforce, business climate, and collaborative public-private partnerships needed to advance our long-term vision for clean hydrogen production in the United States.”
The project has received strong support from state and local leaders. Delaware previously invested $1 million in Aternium through the Delaware Accelerator & Seed Capital Program, reinforcing the state’s commitment to commercializing advanced energy technologies and expanding high-value manufacturing opportunities.
Strategic Site Selection Advantages
Dover offers several competitive advantages that influenced Aternium’s location decision, including:
• Central location within the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic manufacturing corridor.
• Immediate access to Interstate 95 markets serving more than one-third of the U.S. population.
• Proximity to the Port of Wilmington and major East Coast ports.
• Access to rail freight, regional airports, and interstate highway infrastructure.
• Available industrial sites with utility capacity capable of supporting advanced manufacturing.
• A highly educated workforce supported by nearby universities, technical colleges, and workforce development programs.
• A collaborative regulatory environment focused on innovation and sustainable economic growth.
Together, these assets position Dover as an attractive destination for companies seeking locations that combine logistics advantages with access to skilled talent and reliable infrastructure.
Economic Development Impact
The planned facility represents more than a manufacturing investment. It is expected to generate high-paying technical and engineering positions while creating opportunities for contractors, suppliers, logistics providers, construction firms, and professional service companies throughout the region.
As development advances, the project is anticipated to produce long-term economic benefits through capital investment, workforce expansion, supplier partnerships, and increased tax revenue while reinforcing Delaware’s reputation as a destination for advanced manufacturing and clean energy innovation.
The project also aligns with national efforts to strengthen domestic production of critical industrial materials, reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, and accelerate deployment of clean energy technologies.
Delaware Continues Building an Innovation Economy
Aternium’s investment reflects Delaware’s broader strategy of attracting companies operating at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and technology. Through coordinated efforts among state agencies, local governments, workforce partners, and economic development organizations, Delaware continues to position itself as a competitive location for high-growth industries requiring technical talent, modern infrastructure, and a pro-business environment.
With engineering activities progressing and project planning underway, Aternium’s Dover facility has the potential to become one of the region’s most significant advanced energy manufacturing investments and further elevate Delaware’s standing in the rapidly expanding hydrogen economy.
About Aternium
Aternium is a Delaware-based technology company developing innovative clean hydrogen and heavy water production systems designed to strengthen U.S. energy security, support advanced manufacturing, and build resilient domestic supply chains. The company is advancing commercial-scale production technologies that combine sustainable manufacturing with next-generation industrial applications.
Media Contacts
Aternium
Communications Office
Email: media@aternium.com
Phone: (302) 223-8034
Delaware Prosperity Partnership
Communications & Marketing
Phone: (302) 577-8477
City of Dover, Delaware
City Manager’s Office
Phone: (302) 736-7000
