Vianode, a Norwegian battery material manufacturer, has secured a significant grant of 30 million euros from Innovation Norway under the IPCEI EUBatin program. This funding is earmarked to bolster the development of the Herøya anode material plant, which is slated to commence operations by the conclusion of 2024. The IPCEI program, standing for Important Projects of Common European Interest, is geared towards expediting innovation to facilitate a sizable transition towards sustainability.
One of Vianode’s pivotal goals is to usher in a more sustainable future by substantially reducing energy consumption. The company intends to achieve this by producing high-performance graphite anodes tailored for approximately three million electric vehicles annually across Europe and North America by the year 2030. Presently, Vianode operates a modest pilot production facility situated in Kristiansand.
Graphite anodes constitute a critical element in lithium-ion batteries, forming the backbone of electric vehicle power sources. Vianode asserts that each electric car battery pack relies on roughly 70 kilograms of anode graphite. The company distinguishes its production process by claiming to enable a noteworthy 90% reduction in carbon footprint, accompanied by a 40% decrease in energy consumption compared to conventional manufacturing processes. Moreover, Vianode’s innovative approach promises significant savings in auxiliary materials, as well as reductions in local emissions, land usage, and water consumption. This commitment underscores the company’s dedication to fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship within the battery materials manufacturing sector.