Photo: Anthro Energy
Anthropo Energy recently received a $24.9 million grant from the US Department of Energy to help strengthen the domestic battery supply chain – a move that will have a major impact on US EV production.
The Office of Production and Energy Supply Chains grant is part of DOE's drive to modernize US infrastructure and boost clean energy innovation under the Biden-Harris administration's Dual Infrastructure Act.
The grant will allow Anthropo Energy to convert an existing site in Louisville, Kentucky, into the first large-scale, US-owned and operated advanced electrolyte production facility.
So what exactly is an advanced electrolyte? It's a highly efficient substance that plays an important role in lithium-ion batteries, helping them work safer, last longer, and perform better. These electrolytes are critical to the next wave of battery innovation, which includes silicon anodes and high-voltage cathodes – technologies set to power EVs.
Once the 25 GWh Louisville facility comes online, it will be able to produce 12,000 metric tons of advanced electrolyte annually. That's a big deal for the US battery supply chain because until now, there hasn't been a large, homegrown manufacturer of this important component on US soil.
Establishing the factory marks an important milestone in strengthening US energy independence and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains for battery materials. Anthro says the new site will create 114 full-time jobs and 390 part-time construction jobs.
David Mackanic, CEO of Anthropo Energy, called the grant a “significant moment” for the company and for American battery manufacturing. “Establishing the nation's first advanced electrolyte manufacturing facility is a big change; it strengthens our energy independence, strengthens the battery supply chain, and propels us into a clean energy economy,” said Mackanic.
The Louisville project also aims to directly support the local community, with $2.5 billion earmarked for workforce development, education, and sustainability initiatives.
The move is part of the DOE's larger effort to build a sustainable, clean energy economy and reach net zero by 2050. The Bilateral Infrastructure Act aims to improve US competitiveness, address the climate crisis, and ensure that economic and environmental benefits reach disadvantaged communities.
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