Buckeye, Arizona, January 7, 2026
A Phoenix developer has acquired the former KORE Power battery plant site in Buckeye, Arizona, opening new doors for regional economic growth. This site, once slated for an extensive battery manufacturing facility, remains an attractive asset for investment. Its strategic location and existing infrastructure continue to hold promise for future developments, showcasing the resilience and dynamic nature of the Phoenix business landscape.
Buckeye’s KOREPlex Site Finds New Life with Phoenix Developer
A strategic industrial parcel in Buckeye, once earmarked for a major battery plant, has been acquired by a local Phoenix developer, signaling renewed opportunity for regional economic advancement. This move follows the cessation of KORE Power’s initial plans, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of the Phoenix AZ business landscape.
Buckeye, AZ – The industrial landscape in Buckeye, Arizona, is witnessing a significant new chapter as a Phoenix-based developer has acquired the former KORE Power battery plant site. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for the expansive parcel, which had garnered considerable attention and anticipation before KORE Power revised its development strategy. The transition underscores the dynamic nature of regional economic development and the persistent appeal of the Phoenix metropolitan area for forward-thinking private investment.
Initially, KORE Power’s vision for a substantial battery manufacturing facility, dubbed the KOREPlex, was met with enthusiasm across the state. However, the company announced in February 2025 that its plans for the $1.25 billion, 1.8-million-square-foot project would not proceed in Buckeye [cite: 1 from prompt, 7]. This development led to the site being quietly listed for sale in late January 2025 [cite: 3 from prompt, 10]. The subsequent purchase by a local Phoenix developer highlights the robust entrepreneurial spirit within the region, which consistently seeks out and revitalizes valuable economic assets, contributing to sustained economic growth.
A Strategic Asset Reimagined in Buckeye
The KOREPlex project by KORE Power had outlined plans for a massive 2-million-square-foot lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility on a 214-acre site in Buckeye, with an anticipated investment of $1.25 billion. The facility was projected to produce 12 GWh of lithium-ion battery cells annually and create up to 3,000 permanent jobs for Maricopa County. KORE Power had finalized the purchase of the 214 acres in April 2022 and had received key approvals from the City of Buckeye’s Planning and Zoning Commission for the first and second phases of the project by March 2024, with vertical construction slated to begin that year. Despite significant site work undertaken and the conditional commitment of an $850 million federal loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, the company ultimately chose not to move forward with the Buckeye facility in February 2025.
Even with KORE Power’s change of direction, the underlying value of the Buckeye site remained clear. It is a strategically located industrial parcel, already cleared for construction, with critical infrastructure in place and access to major transportation routes. This existing groundwork made the site an attractive prospect for new ventures, demonstrating that well-prepared land assets in thriving areas like Buckeye retain significant appeal for ongoing development.
Private Sector Resilience Drives New Growth
The swift re-entry of the former KORE Power site into the market and its subsequent acquisition by a Phoenix developer is a testament to the resilience and dynamism of the private sector in Arizona. In the wake of KORE Power’s decision, the property was listed for sale, attracting considerable interest from various potential buyers. This rapid market response exemplifies how private investment can efficiently reallocate resources to capitalize on prime opportunities, even when initial plans by one entity shift.
This development highlights the proactive nature of Arizona AZ entrepreneurs and developers who are continually evaluating and investing in the region’s future. The ability of the market to quickly find a new owner for such a significant industrial site showcases a healthy economic environment where capital is readily available for promising projects. Such private initiative is crucial for ensuring that valuable land and resources are continually optimized for productivity and job creation.
Buckeye’s Enduring Appeal for Investment
Buckeye’s leaders have consistently viewed the KORE Power site as a prime opportunity for the community’s future [cite: 2 from prompt]. City of Buckeye Mayor Eric Osborn had previously acknowledged KORE Power’s investment as a significant step for the region [cite: 5 from prompt]. The city’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for businesses remains a key factor in attracting and retaining investment.
Furthermore, ongoing infrastructure development, such as the Buckeye bridge project advancing near the former KORE Power site, continues to enhance the area’s logistical advantages and overall attractiveness for industrial and manufacturing enterprises [cite: 4 from prompt]. This sustained investment in public infrastructure, coupled with the inherent benefits of Buckeye’s strategic location, reinforces its status as a highly desirable hub for economic expansion. The continuity of such projects signals a consistent effort to build a robust foundation for future business success.
Cultivating a Dynamic Economic Landscape
The acquisition of the former KORE Power site by a Phoenix developer is a clear indicator of the robust and adaptive nature of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area’s economy. This event underscores that even when large-scale projects face unforeseen changes, the underlying economic strengths of the region—including a growing population, an expanding workforce, and a generally favorable business climate—enable new opportunities to emerge quickly. The agility of the market to adapt and repurpose significant industrial parcels for new endeavors fosters ongoing economic growth and diversification.
This type of entrepreneurial innovation, driven by local developers and investors, is essential for maintaining a vibrant commercial ecosystem. It demonstrates a belief in the long-term potential of the area and a willingness to invest private capital where economic conditions are perceived as stable and conducive to growth. The ongoing interest in industrial sites in the West Valley, including Buckeye, is a testament to the region’s capacity to attract and sustain various high-tech manufacturing and logistics operations, supporting both established industries and burgeoning Phoenix small business ventures.
Conclusion
The acquisition of the former KORE Power battery plant site by a Phoenix developer marks a promising new chapter for Buckeye and the wider metropolitan area. While KORE Power’s initial plans did not materialize, the rapid re-engagement of private enterprise with this strategic parcel highlights the enduring strength and adaptability of the local economy. This transition serves as an encouraging example of how entrepreneurial foresight and strategic investment continue to drive job creation and foster a thriving business environment in Phoenix and its surrounding communities. We encourage our readers to stay engaged with these crucial local developments as Phoenix continues to build a resilient and prosperous future for all its residents and businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the original plan for the KORE Power site in Buckeye?
- KORE Power initially planned to build a 2-million-square-foot lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility, known as KOREPlex, on a 214-acre site in Buckeye. This project represented a $1.25 billion investment and was projected to create 3,000 permanent jobs for Maricopa County.
- When did KORE Power cancel its plans for the Buckeye plant?
- KORE Power announced in February 2025 that its plans for the battery plant in Buckeye would not move forward at that time. The site was quietly listed for sale in late January 2025. [cite: 1 from prompt, 3 from prompt, 7, 10]
- Who purchased the former KORE Power battery plant site?
- A Phoenix developer has acquired the former KORE Power battery plant site in Buckeye. The specific name of the developer has not been publicly detailed. [cite: 1 from prompt]
- What is the significance of this acquisition for Buckeye?
- This acquisition signifies renewed opportunity for the strategic industrial parcel, demonstrating the resilience of the local market and the continued appeal of Buckeye for private investment and economic development. Buckeye’s leaders have consistently viewed the site as a prime opportunity. [cite: 2 from prompt, 7]
- What was the planned capacity and job creation for the KOREPlex facility?
- The KOREPlex facility was planned to produce 12 GWh of lithium-ion battery cells annually and was projected to create 3,000 permanent jobs for Maricopa County.
Key Features of the Former KORE Power Site in Buckeye
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Original Developer | KORE Power | Local |
| Site Location | Buckeye, Arizona | Local |
| Site Area | 214 acres | Local |
| Original Planned Facility Size | 1.8 to 2 million square feet | Local |
| Original Planned Investment | $1.25 billion | Local |
| Original Planned Job Creation | 3,000 permanent jobs (for Maricopa County) | State-level |
| Date KORE Power Nixed Plans | February 2025 | Local |
| New Owner | A Phoenix developer | Local |
| Site Status Post-KORE Power | Listed for sale, attracted buyer interest, cleared for construction, with existing infrastructure. | Local |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Arizona’s Housing Market Heats Up: Top Cities for Price Growth
Avondale Advances River Corridor Planning for Economic Growth
What Are the Most Popular Neighborhoods for Custom Home Building in Phoenix?
Phoenix Records Significant Drop in Homicides and Violent Crime
Phoenix Firm Expands Real Estate Consulting Services
Fatal Shooting in North Central Phoenix Under Investigation
West Valley Land Rush: Burlington Expands Distribution Footprint
Exploring Arizona’s Most Competitive Housing Markets
Arizona State Football’s Defensive Strategy and Success
High School Basketball Highlights from Across the Nation
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
