Altech Batteries Wins Key Approval for German CERENERGY® Project

Altech Batteries (ASX: ATC) has reached a major milestone, securing environmental and construction approval for its 120 MWh CERENERGY® battery project in Germany.

Altech announced that it has received BimSch-G approval, a key regulatory permit under Germany’s Federal Emission Control Act, for its Saxony-based CERENERGY® GridPack production facility. The approval allows site clearing and construction to commence once project financing is secured.

Sodium-ion batteries, often referred to as salt batteries, are gaining traction as a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries for various large-scale applications.

The CERENERGY® project is being developed by Altech’s joint venture subsidiary, Altech Batteries GmbH, in partnership with Fraunhofer IKTS, a leading German battery institute. The facility will manufacture sodium chloride solid-state (SCSS) battery modules, designed as a safer and more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

Strategic Milestone for Project Financing

Altech’s proactive approach to obtaining approval early ensures the project is well-positioned for financing discussions. Managing Director Iggy Tan highlighted the significance of this achievement:

"We are pleased to have received the final licensing approval for our 120 MWh CERENERGY® battery project so early. Our dynamic, fast-moving approach has prevented potential delays and puts us in a strong position to complete the financing process."

With lithium supply chain constraints and rising demand for energy storage solutions, Altech’s CERENERGY® batteries offer a compelling alternative, being lithium-free, fireproof, and boasting a lifespan of over 15 years.

Green Energy Tech Tailwinds for Altech Sodium Ion Batteries

The approval comes at a pivotal time as Europe pushes for greater energy independence and sustainable battery solutions. Germany’s transition to renewable energy and grid stability requirements are driving demand for non-lithium battery alternatives. Additionally, the recent volatility in lithium prices has made alternative battery chemistries, like Altech’s CERENERGY®, more attractive to investors.

Beyond the CERENERGY® project, Altech is also progressing its Silumina Anodes™ project in Germany, which aims to commercialize a high-capacity silicon-based battery material. The company recently completed a Definitive Feasibility Study for an 8,000tpa production facility, which is aimed at the European EV market.

Sodium Ion Batteries

​Sodium-ion batteries, often referred to as salt batteries, are gaining traction as a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Their appeal lies in the abundance and lower cost of sodium compared to lithium, making them particularly attractive for large-scale energy storage applications.

While sodium-ion batteries offer advantages like cost-effectiveness and safety, they currently have a lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries. This makes them more suitable for applications where space and weight constraints are less critical, such as stationary energy storage systems. 

The company recorded A$7.2M in cash at the end of the December 2024 quarter.