North Carolina is getting a $1.4B sodium-ion battery gigafactory

Natron Energy has announced plans to construct the first sodium-ion battery gigafactory in the United States, located in Edgecombe County, North Carolina. This facility, which will span nearly 1.2 million square feet on a 437-acre site, represents a total investment of approximately $1.4 billion. Once operational, it is expected to produce 24 gigawatts (GW) of sodium-ion batteries annually, significantly increasing Natron's production capacity by 40 times compared to its existing factory in Michigan. The project is anticipated to create over 1,000 jobs and contribute an estimated $3.4 billion to North Carolina's economy over the next 12 years, supported by a Job Development Investment Grant from the state. Natron's sodium-ion batteries are noted for their higher power density, longer cycle life, and safety features compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, and they do not require lithium, cobalt, or nickel. However, sodium-ion technology still faces challenges, particularly in energy density, which may limit its application in electric vehicles (EVs) compared to lithium-ion batteries. Currently, there are no commercially available EVs using sodium-ion batteries, but the technology is gaining traction as a cost-effective alternative for various energy storage applications.

- Natron Energy is building the first sodium-ion battery gigafactory in the U.S. in North Carolina.

- The factory will produce 24 GW of batteries annually and create over 1,000 jobs.

- The project represents a $1.4 billion investment and is expected to boost the local economy by $3.4 billion.

- Sodium-ion batteries offer advantages over lithium-ion, including safety and cost-effectiveness, but lag in energy density.

- There are currently no commercially available EVs using sodium-ion batteries.