The US government plans to spend $2.91 billion to boost the country’s production of advanced batteries and related materials in order to assist the expansion of renewable energy sectors. The Department of Energy (DOE) has issued two notices of intent to support battery material refining and production plants, battery cell and pack manufacturing facilities, and recycling operations.
According to a DOE statement, funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act will be available for these projects in the coming months. This will be utilised to support the developing electric car and energy storage sectors by increasing domestic battery production and recycling capacity.
In 2021, the DOE released a 100-day study of the US’ large-capacity battery supply chain, recommending the development of domestic capabilities to support the supply chain. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, signed by US President Joe Biden, has set aside $7 billion to strengthen the supply chain, including sourcing vital minerals without the need for additional extraction or mining operations. The funds will be used by the DOE to build, renovate, and expand battery recycling facilities, as well as enhance the manufacturing of related commodities.
