On December 6, 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $303.5 million loan guarantee for Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc. to establish two production lines in Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania. This facility will manufacture Eos Z3 zinc-bromine battery energy storage systems, which are designed to power approximately 130,000 homes annually. The project is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs and is part of the DOE's Title 17 Clean Energy Financing Program [2d895679].
Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the significance of this investment in enhancing energy security and supporting the clean energy transition. The Eos Z3 batteries are notable for their ability to withstand 6,000 charge/discharge cycles, offering advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries [2d895679].
In addition to the Eos Energy investment, the DOE has committed to a loan of up to $7.54 billion for Stellantis and Samsung SDI's joint venture, StarPlus Energy LLC, to construct two electric vehicle battery plants in Kokomo, Indiana. This initiative is projected to generate at least 2,800 jobs at the plants and additional employment opportunities at nearby parts supply companies [38c64cb2].
Furthermore, the DOE awarded Anthro Energy a $24.9 million grant to establish the first large-scale advanced electrolyte production facility in Louisville, Kentucky. This facility will produce 12,000 metric tons of advanced electrolyte annually, enhancing the U.S. battery manufacturing landscape [4fda33de].
Moreover, the DOE announced a $175 million investment for Flint, Michigan, which includes a $60 million federal grant for constructing a large silicon anode battery material factory led by NanoGraf. This project is anticipated to create 100 construction jobs and 150 operational jobs, supporting the Biden-Harris Administration's initiatives to strengthen the auto industry and promote clean energy [67bc6f06].
The DOE has also allocated $18 million for 27 research and development projects in marine and offshore wind energy across 17 universities, with funding aimed at reducing costs and improving performance in marine energy devices. Notably, $500,000 is designated for Oregon State University and $1 million for North Carolina State University [89609131].
These investments reflect a comprehensive strategy to enhance the U.S. EV battery supply chain, improve energy efficiency in federal facilities, and foster job creation in historically underserved communities. The collaboration between local unions, educational institutions, and manufacturers is crucial for developing a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of these new facilities [67bc6f06].