Solstice Advanced Materials is investing $49 million to expand its research and development operations in Buffalo, New York, bolstering its push to develop next-generation technologies for high-growth markets and committing to create 12 new full-time jobs by June 2027.
The investment will establish a next-generation innovation platform at the company's Buffalo research campus, expanding research into refrigerants and thermal management, strengthening toxicological testing capabilities and adding a dedicated laboratory for advanced energy storage materials.
New York State is backing the project with up to $1.4 million in performance-based tax credits through the Excelsior Jobs Program, administered by Empire State Development.
"Innovation is one of the core reasons customers choose Solstice, and these investments will strengthen our ability to develop and commercialize the next generation of advanced materials," said David Sewell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solstice.
"Buffalo has played an important role in our innovation efforts for decades, and these projects will expand the site's capabilities in areas aligned with long-term growth trends. By investing in Buffalo, we are helping advance the solutions our customers need while supporting future growth across critical industries."
The expansion builds on Buffalo's decades-long role in Solstice's research and innovation operations. The facility, which opened in 1955, employs approximately 180 scientists, engineers and support staff and has generated more than 3,700 patents globally.
Its research has helped advance technologies used worldwide in energy-efficient cooling, specialty materials and advanced manufacturing. The site also played a leading role in developing multiple generations of widely adopted refrigerant technologies.
New York officials say the investment will strengthen the state's position in emerging industries while supporting jobs and advanced research.
"New York continues to be a magnet for the industries of tomorrow, and Solstice's decision to anchor its premier R&D facility right here in Buffalo proves that our economic strategy is working," said Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York State. "This $49 million investment will create good-paying jobs, foster cutting-edge research and keep New York at the forefront of the green technology revolution."
Solstice said the expanded research infrastructure will strengthen its ability to move advanced materials from laboratory development to commercial applications, targeting industries where demand for next-generation technologies is growing.
"This investment will accelerate the innovation our customers and critical industries depend on while creating new opportunities for growth in Buffalo," said Tom Isberg, Vice President, R&D, Solstice.
"By expanding our R&D capabilities here, we are strengthening Solstice's proven hub for advancing next-generation solutions from lab to market. We are grateful for the support of New York State and Empire State Development, whose partnership is helping strengthen Buffalo's long-standing role as a center for scientific innovation and research."
