SKC Inc. has so much going on at its Covington manufacturing plant that it celebrated both a groundbreaking and a ribbon cutting Tuesday. Local politicians and SKC leaders broke ground on a photovoltaic films plant, part of its continuing efforts to expand in the solar power industry. The total investment is expected to be $50 million, and the first line is expected to be running in September 2011. The second phase will start after 2013. Around 100 new people could be hired in the first phase according to documentation on site.

The company also had a ribbon cutting for its new polyurethane systems plant, which is expected to be operating in June. The plant is part of an aggressive expansion campaign by SKC called "Double SKC." Polyurethane foam is used as cushion for car seats and furniture and as insulation for homes, refrigerators and other appliances. Chairman Shin Won Choi said the company was once again setting an example for the world and Consulate General Hae Jin Chun said these two Covington plants were the beginning of a new era for SKC.

Covington Mayor Kim Carter gave Chairman Shin a key to the city and named him an honorary citizen of Covington. Later on, Shin gave Carter, County Chairman Kathy Morgan and State Sen. John Douglas (R-Social Circle) each a traditional Korean musical instrument as a gift.