BatteryTech News & Updates – 2024 #51
Julian Renpenning
Scientific-Technological Marketing & Business Development | Battery-Tech Enthusiast | Clean Energy | B2B Marketing Expert | Consultant | Former Scientist, PhD, Postdoc
Hello Battery-Tech community and professionals. Another year is coming to a close. It has certainly been a challenging year for many in the battery industry. But there have also been many great developments and accomplishments for others. For me, it has been a challenging but exciting year that has given me new perspectives and ideas. For the last week(s) of the year, I hope you all have a great time with your families and a little time before 2025. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!
Here is your weekly update of major developments in the global battery industry and EV market - Julian
?? Gotion Confirms €2.5 Billion Investment in Battery Cell Facilities in Slovakia and Morocco
国轩高科 plans to invest €2.5 billion in new battery cell plants in Morocco and Slovakia, each aiming for a 20 GWh annual capacity. In Morocco, Gotion Power Morocco will collaborate with CDG Group, while the Slovakian facility will be a joint venture with InoBat . Future expansions might further increase production capacities at both sites.
?? Sakuu’s Kavian Platform Sets a New Benchmark in Dry-Process Battery Manufacturing
Sakuu is progressing its Kavian platform, which uses a dry-process method for battery electrode production, potentially reducing CO? emissions and supporting multiple chemistries. Customer orders might commence in 2025, as the platform aims to improve battery performance and sustainability. Recognized by BloombergNEF and TIME, Sakuu’s advancements could address manufacturing scaling challenges.
?? EVE Energy Launches 60 GWh Super Energy Storage Plant and Advances Large-Capacity Battery Cell Production
惠州亿纬锂能股份有限公司 has launched a new 60 GWh energy storage plant and begun mass production of its “Mr. Big” battery cells, exceeding 600?Ah. The facility is among the largest in the industry, potentially enhancing safety and reducing production costs. Additionally, EVE Energy has integrated advanced monitoring systems to improve safety measures.
?? U.S. Finalizes $9.63B Loan to Ford and SK On for EV Battery Plants
The U.S. Department of Energy has completed a $9.63 billion loan to BlueOval SK, LLC , a joint venture between Ford and SK On. This funding could support the construction of three new EV battery plants in Kentucky and Tennessee, potentially marking the largest loan under the ATVM program. The facilities should produce over 120 gigawatt-hours annually, enhancing domestic EV manufacturing capacity. Production is expected to begin in 2025.
?? Sunwoda and XTC Collaborate to Advance Solid-State Battery Development
Sunwoda is partnering with XTC to enhance energy density and safety in solid-state batteries, aiming mass production by 2026. The collaboration will likely involve innovations such as composite cathode construction, high-stability electrolyte films, and dendrite-free lithium-metal anodes. Sunwoda plans to integrate XTC’s materials to improve battery performance. Additionally, the companies are exploring future commercial cooperation opportunities when appropriate.
?? China’s CATL Offers Financial Support to Suppliers to Boost Battery Innovation
宁德时代新能源科技股份有限公司 (CATL), the world’s largest battery manufacturer, is reportedly providing financial assistance to its suppliers to encourage innovation in battery materials and equipment. This initiative aims to alleviate supply chain challenges in the midst of intense competition in the electric vehicle market. The support could include covering part of research and development costs and assisting with certification processes, potentially helping suppliers expand their market presence. Additionally, CATL is planning to establish a third factory in Europe, which might further strengthen its global footprint.
?? Rio Tinto Invests $2.5 Billion to Expand Argentina’s Rincon Lithium Mine
Rio Tinto has announced a $2.5 billion investment to expand its Rincon lithium project in Argentina. The expansion aims to increase production to 60,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually by 2028, pending regulatory approval. Construction is expected to start in mid-2025, utilizing direct lithium extraction technology that promises to conserve water resources. This project could enhance Argentina’s position in the global lithium market over its projected 40-year lifespan.
?? Innovation Norway Provides NOK 1.5 Billion Loan to Morrow Batteries
Innovasjon Norge has extended a NOK 1.5 billion loan to Morrow Batteries , potentially supporting the company’s efforts to scale battery manufacturing in Norway. This financing should align with the government’s battery strategy, offering Morrow essential liquidity to advance its business objectives. The company is aiming to launch its first 1 GWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery factory in Q2 2025 and will possibly focus on securing additional offtake agreements and advancing its proprietary battery technology.
?? ACC Secures €1 Billion Loan to Expand French Gigafactory
ACC - Automotive Cells Company is set to expand its French gigafactory with a €1 billion loan, supported by Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz. This expansion will increase local production output despite a reportedly slow EV market in Europe. The second production block, adding 13 GWh capacity, is under construction alongside the existing 15 GWh block. ACC should continue to enhance its NMC battery production, contrasting with challenges faced by other European battery manufacturers.
领英推荐
?? Esso Secures Lithium Exploration Permits in Germany’s Lower Saxony
Esso has been granted permits to explore 1,443 square kilometers for lithium extraction in Lower Saxony, Germany. These permits, effective from January 2025 for five years, supposed to support EV battery production and renewable energy storage. Before commencing exploration, Esso needs approval for their operating plans, with the timeline currently uncertain. If lithium deposits are confirmed, the company could utilize borehole mining techniques. Additionally, Esso has submitted 19 further exploration license applications in the region.
?? Volkswagen and PowerCo Invest in Patriot Battery Metals’ Lithium Project
Volkswagen’s PowerCo has invested $48 million for a 9.9% stake in Canada’s Patriot Battery Metals , potentially securing a 10-year supply of 100,000 tonnes of lithium annually. This partnership might ensure a sustainable, ESG-compliant supply chain for PowerCo’s EV batteries in North America and Europe. The agreement includes a binding offtake contract and explores further collaboration at Patriot’s Shaakichiuwaanaan Project in Quebec.
?? Norge Mining to Acquire Europe’s Largest Natural Graphite Producer
Norge Mining has announced plans to acquire Skaland Graphite AS, Europe’s largest natural graphite producer, through its Norwegian subsidiary. The deal is expected to finalize in Q1 2025, potentially enhancing the EU’s green energy supply chain and reducing reliance on China’s graphite. Skaland’s high-grade graphite mine in Norway could support the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries essential for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
?? DEKRA Reports EV Batteries Are More Durable Than Expected
DEKRA has completed over 25,000 rapid tests on electric vehicle batteries, suggesting that EV batteries might be more durable than previously feared. Their 15-minute procedure covers approximately 130 models across Europe, indicating high battery health even at high mileages. These findings could potentially boost consumer confidence in the longevity of electric vehicles. However, factors like driving style, climate, and charging behavior are generally believed to influence battery aging.
?? ￡2.5 Million Grant for Sulfur Battery Production Testing in Australia
Gelion has been awarded a ￡2.5 million grant by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to develop its Advanced Commercial Prototyping Centre in Sydney. This funding should support the production and optimization of next-generation Lithium Sulfur and Silicon Sulfur batteries. The initiative will enable testing and validation with global partners, potentially advancing applications in electric aviation and energy storage solutions.
?? NEO Battery Materials Signs Joint Development Agreement with North American Cell Manufacturer
NEO Battery Materials and a North American battery cell manufacturer have entered a joint development agreement effective November 30, 2024. The collaboration aims to enhance silicon anode technology for electric vehicles and mobility applications. NEO will supply its proprietary polymer-coated silicon anode materials for integration into lithium-ion cells.
?? LG Energy Solution and JSW Energy Plan $1.5 Billion Battery Joint Venture in India
LG Energy Solution and India’s JSW Energy Ltd are exploring the formation of a $1.5 billion joint venture to produce batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The partnership aims to establish a 10 GWh manufacturing facility in India by the end of 2026. LGES is expected to provide the necessary technology and equipment, while JSW Energy might contribute the financial investment. The venture could support JSW’s upcoming EV lineup and expand LGES’s presence in the Indian market.
?? Novonix Secures Conditional $754 Million DOE Loan for Tennessee Graphite Facility
NOVONIX has secured a conditional loan of up to $754 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to build a synthetic graphite facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. If finalized, the plant could achieve full capacity by 2028, producing around 31,500 tonnes annually to support EV battery production. This development might enhance domestic supply chains and align with efforts to localize critical battery materials.
?? US DOE Grants $144 Million to ABTC for Battery Recycling Plant
The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded American Battery Technology Company a $144 million grant to build a lithium-ion battery recycling facility. The plant is expected to process up to 100,000 tonnes of battery materials annually, potentially increasing ABTC’s capacity fivefold. This initiative should support the production of battery-grade materials for electric vehicles and energy storage, enhancing North American sustainable supply chains.
Many thanks for reading. Don't forget to subscribe to receive weekly updates.