OCI, CPS, LGES Partner on Texas BESS Project

Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

The Alamo City BESS project in Texas marks a major milestone in energy storage and US-Korea clean energy collaboration.

Texas Battery Storage Capacity to Expand with 120MW BESS

OCI Energy, CPS Energy, and LG Energy Solution Vertech will jointly develop the Alamo City Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The 120MW/480MWh facility, located in Bexar County, Texas, will supply backup power during peak demand periods.

Under the deal, LGES Vertech will deliver the BESS units and energy management systems to OCI Energy, the project developer. CPS Energy, the municipal utility serving San Antonio, will purchase the storage capacity through a long-term offtake agreement.

This collaboration increases CPS Energy's battery storage portfolio to 520MW, ensuring greater grid reliability across south-central Texas.

BESS Project Aligns with Vision 2027 Energy Plan

The Alamo City BESS project is scheduled to begin operation by late 2026. It will play a crucial role in Vision 2027, CPS Energy’s roadmap to a balanced, reliable, and sustainable energy mix.

Vision 2027 includes plans for 1,710MW of natural gas, 500MW of firming capacity, 84MW of wind, and 730MW of solar. The addition of this battery storage system helps CPS diversify and decarbonize its energy infrastructure.

As a result, this project strengthens both energy resilience and cross-border cooperation between the US and South Korea in the energy transition.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Alamo City BESS is more than a storage project—it’s a blueprint for municipal utilities navigating the clean energy transition. With players like OCI, CPS, and LGES joining forces, we’re seeing the integration of international technology with local grid needs. Expect similar regional collaborations to follow as US battery storage demand accelerates through 2030.

Texas BESS Project Unites OCI, CPS Energy, and LG Energy Solution

CPS Energy

OCI Energy, CPS Energy, and LG Energy Solution launched a major Texas BESS project collaboration. The 120MW/480MWh Alamo City battery storage system will stabilize Bexar County's power grid. This strategic Texas BESS project partnership advances San Antonio's energy resilience goals significantly.

LGES Vertech Supplies Advanced Battery Technology

LG Energy Solution's US division Vertech will provide cutting-edge battery systems and management technology. OCI Energy develops the project while CPS Energy secures the storage capacity offtake agreement. Meanwhile, this partnership raises CPS's total contracted battery storage to 520MW. The facility targets operational status by late 2026.

The Texas BESS project supports grid stability during peak electricity demand periods. Furthermore, the 20-year agreement ensures long-term energy security for San Antonio residents. This development aligns with Texas's growing energy storage infrastructure requirements.

Strategic Impact on Texas Energy Transition

CPS Energy's Vision 2027 plan incorporates this battery storage system comprehensively. The initiative adds 1,710MW natural gas, 730MW solar, and 84MW wind capacity. Therefore, energy storage becomes crucial for renewable integration and grid balancing. The project demonstrates Texas's commitment to diversified energy solutions.

Battery energy storage systems transform Texas's electricity market dynamics fundamentally. Moreover, Korean battery technology strengthens US-South Korea clean energy partnerships. As a result, San Antonio gains enhanced grid resilience and sustainability capabilities. This Texas BESS project model could inspire similar developments statewide.

The Metalnomist Commentary

LG Energy Solution's participation highlights Korean battery manufacturers' aggressive US market expansion amid IRA incentives. The 480MWh capacity represents significant lithium-ion battery demand, potentially requiring 400-500 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent. This project exemplifies how energy storage drives critical mineral demand while enabling renewable energy integration at scale.

Chile Lithium BESS Project Launches in Atacama Desert

Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy has officially launched the largest Chile lithium BESS project in Latin America. The new Desert BESS facility, located in Chile's Atacama Desert, stores up to 800 MWh of solar energy using 320 lithium-based battery units. It can deliver 200 MW of power, enough to serve 122,000 households year-round.

Powering Buses and Cutting Nighttime Energy Costs

The BESS will operate under a 15-year power deal with Chilean firm Copec Emoac. Copec plans to use the system to power 2,500 electric buses across three states. As a result, each bus can travel up to 69,000 kilometers per year, significantly reducing transportation emissions and energy costs during peak nighttime hours.

Accelerating Chile’s 2030 Energy Storage Goals

The Desert BESS adds over 200 MW to Chile’s grid, pushing national energy storage above 1 GW. Therefore, the country is now on track to exceed its 2030 target of 2 GW of storage capacity by 2026 — four years ahead of schedule. The Chile lithium BESS project showcases how private-sector partnerships can accelerate public energy goals.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Chile lithium BESS project is a milestone in Latin America's clean energy transition. Its scale, speed, and smart integration with electric mobility offer a roadmap for emerging markets aiming to lead in grid modernization.

TotalEnergies to Supply 1GWh of BESS to Japan

Gurin Energy

Saft to Power Fukushima’s Energy Transition

TotalEnergies subsidiary Saft will supply over 1GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for Gurin Energy’s renewable project in Japan. The system will include integrated lithium-ion batteries, power conversion units, and energy management platforms. Saft will also oversee installation, commissioning, and servicing, ensuring long-term operational reliability.

The BESS will be deployed in Fukushima Prefecture, delivering 240MW of power in four-hour cycles. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, marking one of Japan’s largest single-site BESS installations. This development highlights Japan’s efforts to stabilize its renewable power grid and enhance supply reliability.

Supporting Japan’s Renewable and Carbon Goals

Japan is targeting 40–50pc renewables in its power generation mix by 2040, up from 27pc today. The country also aims to achieve full carbon neutrality by 2050. Advanced storage solutions like Saft’s BESS are critical to balancing intermittent wind and solar generation.

Meanwhile, large-scale deployments like this project show how international partnerships can accelerate Japan’s clean energy transition. By supporting flexible storage capacity, TotalEnergies and Gurin Energy contribute to reducing reliance on fossil fuels while strengthening grid resilience.

The Metalnomist Commentary

TotalEnergies’ 1GWh BESS project in Fukushima illustrates the growing convergence of global energy players and local renewable developers. Japan’s aggressive carbon neutrality roadmap depends on scalable storage solutions, and this deal positions Saft as a key technology supplier. Investors should watch for how such projects influence Asia’s broader grid modernization strategies.

Adani Green BESS Expansion Makes Khavda a Major Grid Storage Platform

Adani Green Energy

Adani Green BESS capacity has reached 3.37GWh at the Khavda renewable energy park in Gujarat, marking a major step in India’s effort to make large-scale renewable power more reliable and dispatchable. Adani Green Energy added 2GWh to the 1.37GWh installed in March.

Adani Green BESS development at Khavda is significant because the project is now the largest single-location battery storage installation outside China, according to the company. The system is co-located with AGEL’s 30GW renewable energy project, of which 9.9GW is already operational.

Adani Green BESS expansion also signals how India’s clean energy transition is moving beyond generation capacity alone. Solar and wind projects need storage to manage intermittency, stabilise grids and supply power during peak demand periods.

The company plans to scale its storage footprint quickly. It is targeting more than 10GWh of new capacity by March 2027 and aims to reach 50GWh over the next five years.

Khavda Storage Strengthens Renewable Power Dispatchability

The Khavda BESS uses lithium-ion battery technology integrated with advanced energy management systems. This allows faster grid response, better stability and more reliable renewable power delivery.

This matters because India is adding renewable power at scale, but grid flexibility remains a major constraint. Battery storage helps convert variable solar and wind generation into usable power during high-demand periods.

AGEL said the 3.37GWh system can power about 1mn homes for a full day. It can also meet peak electricity demand in cities such as Indore or Chandigarh, or supply the entire state of Goa.

The Khavda project therefore shows how battery storage is becoming core electricity infrastructure. It is no longer only a backup tool or pilot technology.

For India, this type of storage capacity supports energy security, renewable integration and reduced dependence on fossil fuel peaking power. It also strengthens the case for more domestic battery materials, cell manufacturing and power electronics capacity.

Battery Storage Growth Lifts Materials and Supply-Chain Demand

Large BESS projects create demand across several material chains. Lithium-ion batteries require lithium, graphite, copper, aluminium, separators, electrolytes, battery management systems and thermal control technologies.

Copper demand is also supported by cabling, grid connections, transformers and power conversion systems. Aluminium can benefit through enclosures, busbars, structural systems and cooling components.

India’s rapid storage targets could therefore deepen demand for battery raw materials and downstream manufacturing. The country will need reliable supply chains for cells, modules, inverters and grid equipment if it wants to scale from gigawatt-hours to tens of gigawatt-hours.

The Khavda system also highlights the strategic link between renewable energy and industrial policy. Battery storage deployment can create demand signals for local manufacturing, recycling and critical minerals processing.

However, scaling to 50GWh will require capital, land, grid integration, battery procurement and long-term project economics. Storage must become not only technically viable, but also financially repeatable.

Adani Green’s commissioning shows that India is moving quickly. The next challenge is building a domestic ecosystem that can support storage deployment without relying too heavily on imported battery materials and equipment.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Khavda shows that the renewable energy race is becoming a storage race. India’s next clean-energy bottleneck will not be only solar or wind capacity, but the battery materials, grid equipment and financing needed to make renewable power dispatchable.

Michigan BESS Projects Approved to Support Grid Reliability and Data Center Growth

Michigan BESS Projects

Michigan BESS projects received regulatory approval on 27 March, adding 1,332MW of battery energy storage capacity to support grid reliability, renewable power integration and large-load electricity demand. The Michigan Public Service Commission approved six battery energy storage system projects across two major demand areas.

Three of the Michigan BESS projects will provide a combined 1,000MW to support DTE Electric’s integrated resource plan. That plan calls for adding 15,000MW of solar and wind generation in Michigan, making storage capacity essential for balancing intermittent renewable output.

The remaining three projects, totalling 332MW, will support a 1,383MW data center being developed by Green Chile Ventures, an Oracle subsidiary. The storage assets are intended to improve reliability and reduce costs for customers as data center electricity demand rises.

Battery Storage Becomes Critical for Renewable Grid Planning

Battery energy storage systems are becoming a core part of Michigan’s clean power buildout. DTE Electric’s 1,000MW of approved storage will be tied to 20-year tolling agreements, giving the utility more flexibility as solar and wind capacity expands.

This matters because renewable power growth requires fast-response assets that can shift electricity from periods of high generation to periods of high demand. BESS projects can also reduce strain on the grid during peak periods and support more reliable power delivery.

Michigan BESS projects therefore represent more than a backup power investment. They are part of the infrastructure needed to make renewable generation useful at scale and to protect grid stability as electricity demand grows.

Data Center Demand Adds a New Storage Growth Channel

The data center-linked BESS projects show how artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure are reshaping power markets. Green Chile Ventures must develop 1,383MW of energy storage to match the contracted demand of its data center project.

The approved 332MW is only the first phase of that requirement. Green Chile Ventures will bear the costs over 15 years, while DTE Electric will develop, own and operate the facilities.

This structure highlights a wider market trend. Data centers need faster power access, and battery storage can help bridge the gap between project timelines, grid constraints and customer affordability concerns. Michigan already hosts 74 data centers, with Detroit accounting for 32, making power infrastructure an increasingly important competitiveness factor.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Michigan BESS projects show that battery storage is becoming essential infrastructure for both renewable energy and AI-driven data center growth. The next bottleneck will not only be battery supply, but also transformers, grid equipment, copper, aluminium and permitting capacity.

Cordelio Power Acquires 1GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems from Fluence Energy

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Canadian independent power producer Cordelio Power has secured over 1GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) from Fluence Energy, marking a significant move in its energy storage portfolio. This purchase is aimed at supporting several BESS projects in Cordelio's 2026-2027 pipeline, which are expected to contribute to North America's green energy transition.

Strategic Expansion in Battery Energy Storage

Fluence Energy, a prominent US energy storage provider, was chosen by Cordelio Power for its cutting-edge storage technology. Fluence boasts a US-based supply chain, ensuring that no Chinese products are involved, which aligns with Cordelio's commitment to secure and sustainable energy solutions. However, the financial details of this acquisition and the specifics of the upcoming projects remain undisclosed.

Cordelio Power is actively expanding its presence in the energy storage market, focusing on large-scale projects designed to enhance grid stability and support renewable energy sources. The 1GWh purchase will be integral to the successful commissioning of multiple BESS projects scheduled for 2026-2027.

Key Projects in the US Pipeline

In addition to the acquisition of storage systems, Cordelio has secured offtake agreements for two major BESS facilities in the western US. The first is the Greenwater project, a 200MW, 800MWh facility located in Pierce County, Washington. This project will be developed in partnership with Puget Sound Energy. The second is the Pioneer project in Yuma County, Arizona, a larger 300MW, 1,200MWh project, set to be developed in collaboration with Arizona Public Service.

These projects highlight Cordelio's growing role in providing reliable energy storage solutions that complement renewable energy generation, paving the way for a cleaner and more resilient energy grid.

Falling Battery Costs Drive Longer Duration Energy Storage Expansion

CERAWeek

Shift to LFP chemistry and falling raw material prices boost two-hour-plus BESS projects, but SoC accuracy remains a hurdle.

Lower Battery Costs Accelerate BESS Deployment

Lower battery prices are transforming the energy storage market by enabling more battery energy storage systems (BESS) with longer durations, according to experts at the CERAWeek by S&P Global conference in Houston. Charlotte Johnson, general manager of InfraFlex (a Kraken unit), stated, "Lower prices have accelerated the deployment of BESS of two hours and more, rather than the one-hour systems."

Battery cells represent about 50% of total project costs, while the remainder goes to labor, operations, and maintenance. As battery cell costs fall, project developers are increasingly building longer-duration BESS to meet grid flexibility and renewable integration needs.

LFP Batteries Drive Cost Cuts but Add Challenges

The price drop stems largely from falling battery raw material costs and a rapid shift to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry. LFP cells are cheaper and more stable than nickel-based alternatives, making them ideal for utility-scale BESS projects.

However, panelists warned of a drawback: LFP systems have less predictable state of charge (SoC) behavior. Inaccurate SoC readings complicate real-time optimization and revenue maximization for grid operators and energy traders.

Outlook: Market Growth Continues Amid Technical Hurdles

While SoC monitoring remains a challenge, the economic advantages of LFP and longer-duration storage outweigh the downsides for now. Developers and technology providers are focusing on improving SoC management tools and software to unlock greater value from low-cost, longer-duration systems.

GM Redwood Battery Storage Project Extends EV Battery Value Chain

BESS

GM Redwood battery storage project will deploy repurposed electric vehicle battery packs at a General Motors plant in Michigan, extending the useful life of batteries before final recycling.

GM Redwood battery storage project will combine 100 reused EV battery packs into a 1.5MW/7.2MWh battery energy storage system. The installation will provide dispatchable power and help reduce electricity costs at the manufacturing site.

GM Redwood battery storage project is significant because it connects battery manufacturing, vehicle use, second-life energy storage and materials recovery within one supply chain. Redwood estimates the system will save more than $3mn in electricity costs over its operating life.

The project also shows how retired EV batteries can remain economically valuable even after they no longer meet automotive performance requirements.

Second-Life Batteries Add Value Before Recycling

EV batteries typically retain significant usable capacity when they are removed from vehicles. That remaining energy storage capability can support stationary applications where weight and space are less restrictive than in automotive use.

Repurposing packs for BESS applications can therefore delay recycling while extracting additional economic value from the battery.

For industrial facilities, storage systems can help manage peak electricity demand, provide backup power and shift energy consumption toward lower-cost periods.

The Michigan installation gives GM a direct opportunity to reduce plant electricity costs using batteries already linked to its own vehicle ecosystem.

This model also reduces the need for newly manufactured cells in some stationary storage applications. That can lower incremental demand for lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite and other battery materials.

However, second-life systems still require testing, battery management and safety controls because used packs can have different degradation histories and performance characteristics.

Redwood Builds Closed-Loop Battery Supply Chain With GM

Redwood's relationship with GM extends across multiple stages of the battery lifecycle. The recycler handles manufacturing scrap, end-of-life EV packs and now second-life energy storage deployment.

Redwood has already received more than 28,000t of material from GM, with another 10,000 EV battery packs expected to enter the pipeline.

The company also works with Ultium Cells, GM's joint venture with LG Energy Solution, to recycle battery production scrap from facilities in Ohio and Tennessee.

This creates a more integrated materials loop. Manufacturing scrap can return quickly to recycling, while vehicle batteries can first enter stationary storage before eventually being processed for material recovery.

The approach could become increasingly important as EV battery volumes grow. Recycling alone captures raw materials, but second-life deployment can add another revenue stage before final recovery.

For automakers, that can improve battery economics while strengthening access to recycled lithium, nickel, cobalt and copper over the longer term.

The Metalnomist Commentary

GM and Redwood are showing that the battery circular economy does not begin with recycling. Second-life storage can create an additional commercial stage between vehicle use and materials recovery, improving both battery economics and supply-chain efficiency.

Ford BESS market entry accelerates after $19.5bn Ford EV write-down

Ford BESS

Ford BESS market entry is now central to Ford Motor’s updated electrification strategy. The automaker launched a battery energy storage systems unit as it prepares a Ford EV write-down totaling $19.5bn. As a result, Ford is repositioning capital toward grid infrastructure and data center demand.

Ford said weak demand and high costs pushed it to shelve plans for large EVs. However, the company still targets a more electrified fleet mix by 2030. Therefore, Ford BESS market entry signals a pivot toward returns that look steadier than passenger EV margins.

Ford battery energy storage systems business targets data centers and grids

Ford battery energy storage systems business will lean on lithium-iron-phosphate technology. Ford will also use its wholly owned plants in Kentucky and Michigan. Meanwhile, the company aims to serve energy infrastructure upgrades and expanding data center loads.

Ford plans to begin shipping BESS products in 2027. The company expects annual capacity to reach 20GWh. As a result, Ford battery energy storage systems business could become a meaningful industrial demand driver for LFP inputs and power electronics.

EV strategy resets around hybrids and EREVs

Ford widened its EV definition to include hybrids, EREVs, and BEVs. An EREV uses a gasoline engine to recharge the battery, not drive the wheels. Therefore, EREVs can extend range without frequent plug-in charging.

Ford expects electrified vehicles to represent about 50% of global production by 2030. That compares with roughly 17% today. Meanwhile, Ford EV write-down reflects how quickly automakers must reassess platform bets when demand softens.

Ford also ended production of the current-generation F-150 Lightning. The company now plans to adopt EREV architecture for the next generation. As a result, Ford aligns product planning with consumer range expectations and cost discipline.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This shift ties automotive manufacturing closer to stationary power markets. However, BESS success will depend on execution, sourcing, and project-cycle discipline. Therefore, Ford’s move could reshape LFP supply competition with established storage players.

Samsung SDI US BESS supply deal signals a new supply phase for grid storage

Samsung SDI, BESS

Samsung SDI US BESS supply deal locks in a large, multi-year grid storage order. The contract totals 1.5 trillion won, about $1bn. It runs in phases from 2026 to 2029.

The Samsung SDI US BESS supply deal will serve an unnamed US energy company. The batteries will come from StarPlus Energy in Indiana. StarPlus Energy is Samsung SDI’s joint venture with Stellantis.

What the Samsung SDI US BESS supply deal covers

The initial shipments will use nickel-cobalt-aluminum battery chemistry. This chemistry targets high power and strong cycling performance. Therefore, it fits early ramp needs for utility-scale storage.

Later phases will expand into lithium iron phosphate batteries. LFP improves cost stability and supply resilience. As a result, Samsung SDI can address broader project economics.

Why Indiana production and LFP expansion matter

Indiana-based production reduces logistics risk and delivery lead times. It also helps buyers align with domestic sourcing preferences. Meanwhile, it supports predictable capacity planning for multi-year deployments.

Samsung SDI’s recent US activity reinforces this direction. The company signed a separate two-trillion-won LFP supply agreement last December. Therefore, Samsung SDI positions LFP as a core growth lever in US storage.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This shift signals a maturing BESS market that values bankable delivery over headline capacity. However, margins will depend on raw material spreads and contract pricing formulas. The winners will scale localized supply without losing cost discipline.

India Renewable Curtailment Exposes Grid Bottleneck Behind Clean Power Growth

Ember

India renewable curtailment reached around 300GWh in January-March because of transmission constraints, showing that the country’s clean power buildout is now running ahead of grid readiness. The lost generation accounted for nearly two-thirds of India’s total renewable curtailment in the first quarter.

India renewable curtailment was concentrated in renewable-heavy northern and western grid pooling stations, especially Rajasthan and Gujarat. These regions have added large solar and wind capacity, but transmission expansion has not kept pace.

India renewable curtailment is strategically important because wasted clean power weakens project economics, increases peak power costs and delays the energy transition. It also highlights rising demand for grid materials, including copper, aluminium conductors, transformers, electrical steel and battery storage systems.

The curtailed volume represented around 1.5-2% of total renewable generation from interstate transmission system-connected plants in northern and western India. On 30 March alone, India lost 34GWh of renewable output because of insufficient transmission margins.

Transmission Delays Threaten Renewable Project Economics

India has achieved only around 80% of its annual transmission buildout targets over the past five years. That gap is now becoming visible in curtailment, grid connection delays and weaker returns for renewable developers.

One in four interstate transmission schemes scheduled for the 2026-27 fiscal year faces delays of at least one year. Around 20GW of renewable capacity is expected to face grid connectivity delays exceeding four months.

These delays carry direct financial consequences. A six to twelve-month delay in solar projects can reduce internal rates of return by 100-200 basis points because of lost early cash flows and higher financing costs.

The problem also affects India’s fuel import exposure. Curtailed renewable generation could have displaced costly gas-fired power during peak demand periods, reducing reliance on expensive LNG at a time when spot gas prices were elevated by the US-Iran war.

For metals markets, the message is clear. India’s renewable buildout now needs faster transmission investment, which means more demand for aluminium conductor, copper cable, transformers, substations, steel structures and grid equipment.

BESS Deployment Offers Near-Term Relief

Battery energy storage systems could provide a near-term solution at renewable pooling stations. Ember estimates that around 3-4GW of two-hour storage could absorb most curtailed renewable generation.

The economics are becoming more attractive. Stored solar power delivered at 7-8 rupees/kWh would remain below the Rs9-10/kWh many Indian states pay for peak-demand electricity.

This makes BESS deployment more than a technical fix. It is a cost-control tool, a grid-stability tool and a way to protect renewable project returns.

Battery storage demand also has materials implications. BESS deployment supports demand for lithium, phosphate, graphite, copper, aluminium, power electronics and thermal management systems, with lithium iron phosphate likely to remain important for stationary storage.

India’s southern region recorded no transmission-related renewable losses because renewable additions and transmission readiness were better aligned. That contrast shows that curtailment is not inevitable; it is a planning and execution problem.

India’s clean power transition will therefore depend on synchronising generation, transmission and storage investment. Solar and wind additions alone will not deliver energy security if power cannot move from renewable zones to demand centres.

The Metalnomist Commentary

India’s renewable curtailment shows that the energy transition is becoming a grid materials story. The next bottleneck is not only solar panels or wind turbines, but transmission capacity, storage deployment and the metals needed to move clean electricity.

Canadian Solar Battery Storage Guidance Jumps 21% on Data Center Demand

Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar battery storage shipments guidance for 2025 surged 21% as the renewable energy company capitalizes on growing demand from data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations. The company now expects utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) deliveries to reach 7-9 GWh in 2025, reflecting strong market fundamentals despite challenging industry conditions.

Data Centers Drive Battery Storage Market Growth

Canadian Solar battery storage business benefits from accelerating digitalization trends requiring reliable backup power solutions. Data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities increasingly demand large-scale energy storage to ensure operational continuity and manage power costs. The company's revised guidance includes approximately 1 GWh designated for its own renewable energy projects.

Meanwhile, Canadian Solar secured a significant contract with Chilean utility Colbún in April. The deal involves supplying a 228MW/912MWh lithium iron phosphate BESS in Chile's Atacama Region. This project demonstrates the company's ability to compete for major utility-scale installations in key Latin American markets.

Industry Headwinds Impact Financial Performance

However, Canadian Solar faces mounting challenges affecting profitability across its operations. Geopolitical uncertainty reduces business visibility while oversupply and fierce competition pressure margins throughout the renewable energy sector. These factors contributed to deteriorating financial results in the first quarter.

Therefore, the company reported a $76.6 million net loss in Q1 2025, contrasting sharply with $36.2 million net income in the prior year period. Seasonally lower BESS sales and trade-related duties further compressed margins during the quarter.

Q2 Recovery Expected Despite Market Pressures

Canadian Solar battery storage shipments totaled 0.8 GWh in Q1 but management expects significant improvement ahead. The company projects 2.4-2.6 GWh in BESS deliveries during the second quarter, indicating strong sequential growth momentum.

As a result, Canadian Solar positions itself to benefit from structural demand growth in energy storage markets. The company's focus on utility-scale projects and strategic partnerships with major utilities supports its optimistic 2025 outlook despite near-term profitability challenges.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Canadian Solar's upgraded BESS guidance reflects the energy storage sector's rapid evolution driven by digital infrastructure expansion and grid modernization needs. While the company navigates challenging market conditions including oversupply and trade tensions, its strategic positioning in high-growth segments like data center storage creates compelling long-term value propositions for investors and industry stakeholders.

Namibia Approves SQM’s $40M Lithium Investment in Lithium Ridge Project

Sociedad Química y Minera(SQM)

Chile’s SQM Joins Andrada to Accelerate Namibia’s Critical Mineral Development

Namibia’s Competition Commission (NaCC) has officially approved the strategic partnership between Chile’s SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile) and Namibia-based Andrada Mining, granting the final green light for the development of the Lithium Ridge project. This regulatory clearance paves the way for SQM to acquire up to a 50% stake in the project by fully funding up to $40 million in exploration activities and the completion of a definitive feasibility study (DFS).

Lithium Ridge Positioned as Key Regional Critical Minerals Asset

Located in Namibia’s Erongo region, Lithium Ridge contains pegmatites rich in lithium, tin, and tantalum, all of which are essential for electric vehicles (EVs), battery energy storage systems (BESS), and advanced electronics. With surging global demand for these materials, the project is positioned to become a strategic asset in Africa’s growing critical minerals economy.

The collaboration gives SQM access to high-grade mineral assets outside its traditional Latin American base, while Andrada gains global expertise and the financial backing necessary to scale development. Together, the companies aim to unlock the full value of Lithium Ridge and establish Namibia as a stable and significant supplier in the battery supply chain.

Namibia’s Role Grows in the Global Energy Transition

This deal comes as governments and industries increasingly look to diversify raw material sourcing amid geopolitical uncertainty. SQM’s planned investment and operational involvement reflect both confidence in Namibia’s regulatory framework and recognition of the country’s vast untapped mineral potential.

For Andrada Mining, the partnership is also a validation of its long-term strategy to lead in Namibian critical raw materials development. As SQM and Andrada move forward, the Lithium Ridge project is expected to deliver regional economic benefits while supplying global markets with responsibly sourced lithium and associated metals.

Rivian Second-Life Battery Storage Project Links EV Packs to Grid Reliability

Rivian, Redwood

Rivian second-life battery storage is moving into commercial use after the US electric-vehicle maker agreed to deploy repurposed battery packs through Redwood Materials at its Normal manufacturing plant in Illinois. The project will use more than 100 used Rivian battery packs to provide 10 MWh of dispatchable battery energy storage.

The Rivian second-life battery storage project gives retired EV packs a second use before recycling. Redwood Materials will integrate the packs into a Redwood Energy system for on-site use at Rivian’s manufacturing facility.

Rivian second-life battery storage also reflects a wider shift in the battery value chain. Automakers and recyclers are looking for ways to extract more value from battery packs before recovering lithium, nickel, cobalt, copper, aluminium and other materials.

Redwood Turns Used EV Packs Into Stationary Storage

Redwood will receive EV battery packs from Rivian and convert them into a battery energy storage system for the Normal plant. The system will help reduce energy costs and support local grid reliability.

Second-life batteries are useful because EV packs can still retain meaningful capacity after vehicle use. They may no longer meet automotive performance requirements, but they can still serve stationary storage applications.

This creates a bridge between mobility and grid infrastructure. A battery pack can first support vehicle electrification, then provide stationary power, and later enter recycling for critical material recovery.

Redwood receives more than 20 GWh/yr of batteries, giving it a large feedstock base for both reuse and recycling. The company said it can deploy BESS projects in as little as six months, which matters as power demand rises quickly.

Data Center Power Demand Raises Storage Value

Rivian has attracted investors such as Google, which are seeking faster access to power solutions for artificial intelligence data center growth. This connection shows why second-life batteries are becoming more strategically relevant.

AI data centers need reliable, flexible and rapidly deployable power. Battery energy storage systems can help manage peak demand, improve resilience and reduce pressure on grids facing new large-load connections.

Repurposed EV batteries could become a lower-cost option where speed matters more than maximum energy density. They may also reduce waste and delay the need for immediate material recycling.

For the metals supply chain, this creates a more circular model. Battery materials stay in productive use longer, while recyclers build stronger long-term access to end-of-life packs and future recovered metals.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Rivian and Redwood are showing how EV batteries can become grid assets before they become recycling feedstock. The strategic value lies in extending battery life, lowering storage costs and securing future material recovery in one integrated loop.

SoftBank Osaka Battery Production Targets AI Data Centre Energy Demand

SoftBank

SoftBank Osaka battery production plans will add a new Japanese platform for next-generation battery cells and battery energy storage systems. The company aims to start production at its GX Factory in Osaka by March 2028.

SoftBank Osaka battery production will focus partly on zinc-halogen battery technology developed with South Korea’s COSMOS Lab. The partners aim to begin mass production during the April 2027-March 2028 fiscal year.

SoftBank Osaka battery production is strategically linked to rising electricity demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure. As AI data centres expand, operators need safer, scalable and more resilient energy storage systems to support grid stability and power management.

The GX Factory is part of SoftBank’s planned AI data centre development at Sakai in Osaka prefecture, on a site formerly owned by Sharp. The wider project also includes the AX Factory, which will focus on AI data centre operations and infrastructure hardware manufacturing.

Zinc-Halogen Technology Targets Safety and Local Supply

SoftBank is positioning zinc-halogen batteries as a safer alternative to lithium-ion systems. The company said the technology removes lithium-ion fire risk by using a halogen-based cathode material, zinc anode and water-based electrolyte.

This chemistry also supports supply-chain resilience. Zinc and halides are available in Japan, reducing exposure to imported lithium, nickel, cobalt or graphite supply chains.

That matters because energy storage is becoming more strategically important as AI data centres, renewable power and grid balancing needs grow together. Battery systems must be safe, affordable and scalable.

Zinc-halogen batteries may be especially relevant for stationary storage, where safety, durability and material availability can matter more than maximum energy density.

SoftBank’s plan shows that AI infrastructure is beginning to shape battery demand beyond electric vehicles. Data centres require large and reliable power systems, and that could create a new demand channel for non-lithium battery chemistries.

BESS Manufacturing Adds Industrial Scale Ambition

SoftBank will also partner with South Korea’s DeltaX to develop and manufacture high-energy-density battery energy storage systems. The partnership will use DeltaX’s cell-connecting system design and cell-to-pack technology.

SoftBank aims to reach 1 GWh/yr of BESS mass production by the 2028-29 fiscal year. That would give the company a meaningful platform for grid, industrial and data-centre storage customers.

The company plans to expand sales into grid-storage, industrial and residential applications. It is also considering overseas markets in the medium term.

SoftBank wants the battery business to generate more than ¥100bn in annual revenue by the 2030-31 fiscal year. That target shows the company sees batteries as an infrastructure business, not only a technology experiment.

For Japan, the project strengthens domestic battery manufacturing around AI infrastructure and energy security. It also diversifies battery chemistry development beyond the lithium-ion supply chain.

The industrial implication is clear. As AI power demand accelerates, battery storage will become a strategic layer between data centres, grids and renewable energy supply.

The Metalnomist Commentary

SoftBank’s Osaka plan shows that AI infrastructure is now pulling battery innovation in a new direction. Zinc-halogen technology may not replace lithium-ion in vehicles, but it could become strategically important for safer, locally sourced stationary storage.

Hithium and Samsung C&T Join Forces for 10GWh BESS Projects

Hithium

Hithium, a manufacturer of battery energy storage systems (BESS), has announced a partnership with Samsung C&T, a South Korean engineering and construction firm. The collaboration aims to pursue multiple global energy storage projects with a combined capacity of up to 10GWh.

Hithium's Expanding Global Presence

Hithium has a strong track record, having delivered over 50GWh of BESS products in China and Eastern Europe.  The company recently entered the Australian market with a 640MWh project in partnership with utility-scale renewable energy developer Lightsource BP. 

While the specific timeline for the newly announced projects with Samsung C&T was not disclosed, this partnership signifies a major expansion of Hithium's global footprint.  Hithium Tech USA, a subsidiary of Hithium, is also investing $100 million in a new battery module and energy storage assembly plant in Mesquite, Texas. This facility will have a production capacity of 10GWh per year.