2.4 Launch of BAsQuEvolT to produce 10GWh of solid-state batteries by 2027

BASQUEVOLT, the Basque solid-state battery initiative, announced in the summer of 2022 that they will begin production of battery cells in 2027 with the aim of reaching a capacity of 10GWh. This is the main objective of BASQUEVOLT, in which the Basque Government, Iberdrola, CIE Automotive, Enagás, EIT InnoEnergy, and CIC energiGUNE all feature as founding shareholders.

Specifically, BASQUEVOLT aims to develop – in a sustainable way –the best materials and battery cells to enable the mass deployment of electric transport, stationary energy storage (including hybridisation with hydrogen-gas systems), and advanced portable devices.

The experience of the companies that form the initial group of investors ensures that BASQUEVOLT is in a highly competitive position in the battery race, where there are important opportunities for collaboration and which is key to making progress in the energy transition.

BASQUEVOLT plans to launch the first production line within four years, supported by an investment of more than €700 million, which will be able to generate more than 800 direct jobs.

The consortium is aware that liquid electrolyte lithium batteries are reaching a state of maturity, and that the next technological breakthrough required to really unlock the true potential of energy storage must come from the solid state. The new technology will greatly exceed the energy density of current storage solutions. Thanks to its technological expertise, BASQUEVOLT aims to become the European leader in solidstate batteries.

nu RIA GI s BERT TREJ o General Manager of CIC EnergiGUNE

Europe is very strong when it comes to power electronics and applications, but cells and materials should also be manufactured in Europe so we reinforce the battery value chain.