Li-S Energy Opens 2MWh Battery Cell Production Facility in Victoria

Li-S Energy on Friday inaugurated its new 2MWh Battery Cell Production Facility in Geelong, Victoria in the presence of Federal Minister for Industry and Science, Hon. Ed Husic MP, and the Hon. Libby Coker, Federal MP for Corangamite.  At the same event, a $1.7 million grant was awarded to the company under the Industry Growth Program (IGP) Commercialisation and Growth Grant. This funding will support the development of Australia’s first lithium foil production facility, marking a significant milestone in advancing the country’s capabilities in battery technology and manufacturing.

Li-S Energy, an innovative Australian firm, is bringing to market cutting-edge lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal batteries, utilizing exclusive intellectual property developed at Deakin University. These advanced batteries are notably lighter than traditional lithium-ion batteries, offering substantial weight-saving advantages. This reduction in weight is crucial for applications with stringent performance demands, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), electric aviation, and defense systems, where enhanced efficiency and performance are essential.

With the backing of the IGP Grant announced by Minister Husic, Li-S Energy aims to expand its operations from cell manufacturing to producing premium lithium foils and laminates directly from lithium metal ingots. Lithium metal foil, essential as the anode for both lithium-sulfur and lithium-metal batteries, is currently imported and suffers from quality limitations, lacking optimization for Li-S cells. This strategic move will enable Li-S Energy to enhance the performance and reliability of their advanced battery technologies.

This initiative will establish a new sovereign manufacturing capability for Australia, mitigating supply chain risks and enhancing the value of the country's advanced battery material exports. In addition to incorporating the lithium foil into its own battery products, Li-S Energy plans to export these foils internationally, creating an additional revenue stream and capitalizing on the expanding global market for advanced battery materials.

Dr. Lee Finniear, CEO of Li-S Energy, emphasized Australia’s strategic position in the global lithium market, producing 52% of the world’s lithium ore but largely exporting it without further processing. He highlighted the significant opportunity for Australia to capitalize on the projected US$51 billion global market for lithium metal foil by developing domestic production capabilities. Finniear expressed gratitude to the Minister for the official opening of their production facility and acknowledged the Australian Government’s IGP Grant, which supports the establishment of Australia’s first lithium foil manufacturing capability. This initiative aims to add substantial value locally before exporting this high-value product to international markets.

Minister Husic expressed his appreciation to Li-S Energy for hosting the event and showcasing their innovative work in advanced battery technology. He highlighted the announcement of the first grants from the $400 million Industry Growth Program, with Li-S Energy being one of the recipients. This grant will support their development of lightweight batteries crucial for aviation and drone technology. Minister Husic underscored the Albanese Government's commitment through the Industry Growth Program, designed to bolster SMEs and enhance manufacturing capabilities with cutting-edge technologies. He concluded by expressing pride in the achievements of Li-S Energy and their contribution to Australia's technological advancement.