Solvay S.A. (Brussels, Belgium) announced several investment efforts to advance its work to develop the next-generation of solid-state electrolytes for batteries. On the ground, investments started with the opening earlier this year of a dry room laboratory in Solvay’s research center near Paris followed by a new R&D pilot line in La Rochelle. With funding from the Île-de-France and Nouvelle Aquitaine regions, Solvay is leading the development of advanced inorganic materials for solid electrolytes, a key component of solid-state batteries, and accelerating the scale up of these materials. Full operation is anticipated for the second quarter of 2022.
“Solvay’s ambition to accelerate energy transition and make e-mobility a reality is best illustrated by our commitment to developing critical materials for next generation solid-state batteries,” explained Mike Finelli, president of Solvay’s strategic growth platforms. “These batteries will deliver increased range, shorter charging time and enhanced safety to electric car users. Our broad portfolio and focused research and innovation investments makes us the perfect partner to support battery manufacturers’ ambitious targets.”
“Our Paris-Aubervilliers and La Rochelle sites will play a critical role in the region for delivering ground-breaking advanced materials for the next generation of batteries,” explained François Pontais, president of Solvay France. “By accelerating our innovation for future technologies, we will deliver breakthrough innovation while creating and safeguarding jobs for the French regions of Nouvelle Aquitaine and Île-de-France. It is an exciting time to be part of the Solvay team delivering real world solutions to the e-mobility industry.”
The financial support awarded by France is part of the European Commission’s Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) programme, in which Solvay has been approved to receive substantial grants over the coming years from participating member states, backed by its own investments, to accelerate EV battery innovation in the European Union. Furthermore, as a significant player in the European Battery Alliance, Solvay is committed to working across this network to build an ecosystem within the entire value chain by delivering advanced materials and partnering for innovation.