Battery developer Alsym Energy and domestic manufacturer Re:Build Manufacturing have partnered to scale U.S.-based battery manufacturing for the energy storage market.

With the two firms’ new memo of understanding in place, the companies plan to develop commercial-scale sodium-ion battery cell manufacturing capacity in the U.S. The partnership aims to address “rapidly growing demand” for batteries by combining Alsym Energy’s battery technology with the industrial manufacturing prowess of Re:Build, the companies say.

Alsym Energy CEO Mukesh Chatter says the modern manufacturing industry, and the world at large, need batteries that are safe and low-cost, without losing performance. This newly inked partnership is a big part of that goal for his firm.

“Our Na-Series batteries fulfill the critical energy needs for AI data centers, utilities, commercial real estate and other industries. It is a better battery for energy storage,” Chatter says. “Partnering with Re:Build allows us to accelerate our roadmap toward domestic commercial production. Their expertise in precision manufacturing and battery components is the perfect match for us.

“Together, we are providing a path for ESS integrators and developers to access high-quality cells that are not only non-flammable and high performance, but are backed by a reliable, non-FEOC supply chain that is fully compliant with tax credit and defense procurement rules.”

The joint initiative will focus largely on developing battery capacity inside Re:Build’s existing facility in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, on the outskirts of Pittsburgh. With a deep historical knowledge of manufacturing and an eager workforce community in the area, the companies expect the partnership will significantly reduce logistical lead times and shipping costs.

Rewriting the book on batteries

As the world careens toward global adoption of the energy transition, Alsym officials say that “the limitations of current battery technologies have become increasingly apparent.”

Traditional lithium-ion cells, which became the mainstream standard around the turn of the millennium, are highly flammable and otherwise unreliable. These limitations have slowed energy storage deployments around the U.S., and have limited the places where batteries can be used practically. Alsym’s sodium-ion cells are non-flammable, which the company says can “unlock” the industry’s capabilities on American shores.

Re:Build Manufacturing CEO Miles Arnone says that manufacturing more reliable battery cells can play a major hand in “revitalizating American manufacturing.”

“We have seen an immense ‘thirst’ from customers for a battery supply chain that is reliable and located right here in the U.S.,” he says. “Alsym’s technology is a game-changer for the stationary storage market. By collaborating on the development of commercial-scale cell manufacturing, we are positioning ourselves to meet the massive commitments our customers have already made to these cleaner, safer technologies.”

The companies’ combined approach will ensure that energy storage developers can maximize their tax benefits, including the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit.

Tags: Alsym Energy, batteries, BESS, energy storage, ESS, manufacturing, products, Re:Build Manufacturing