Vianode progress update – December 2021
Vianode, established by Elkem as a new company and brand dedicated to advanced battery materials, is progressing its work.
In 2021, Vianode has successfully onboarded 30+ highly qualified employees and opened its industrial pilot plant in Kristiansand, Norway. Several processes with potential customers and investors are currently ongoing and expected to proceed into the new year. A potential investment decision for a fast-track development is therefore expected in the first half of 2022.
“The booming market for batteries and battery materials continues. The growth in electric vehicles is strong and accelerating, and we are in close dialogue with many of the world’s top battery cell producers,” says Vice President in Vianode, Chris York.
“The interest in Vianode as a relevant battery material supplier is strong. We are focused on verifying our process technology equipment advancements and mature our industrial project plans. In addition, Vianode is awaiting clarifications related to framework conditions in Norway. This business represents cutting-edge technology development and we have been clear that a positive investment decision for a large-scale battery materials plant in Norway will require competitive public support mechanisms and supportive government policies,” says York.
2021 has been an eventful year for Elkem and Vianode. In April, Elkem successfully commissioned the industrial pilot for battery materials in Kristiansand, Norway, starting industrial scale pilot production for customers. In May, Vianode was established as a new company and brand dedicated to strategic growth opportunities in advanced battery materials. In August, Vianode secured an additional lease in Herøya to enhance its industrial production entrance into material supply for EV batteries.
Throughout the year, more than 30 new colleagues have been onboarded to the organization towards a total head count of more than 50 employees. Vianode has recently also been nominated for the “Special award” in the ranking of Norway’s smartest industrial companies, presented by Siemens and the Federation of Norwegian Industries.
“The Vianode team will continue its progress and close dialogue with potential customers, partners and government representatives in the coming weeks and months. The production of battery materials represents one of Elkem’s biggest growth opportunities, and we are excited about the opportunities for Vianode in 2022,” says York.
For more information:
Odd-Geir Lyngstad, VP Finance & Investor Relations, Elkem ASA
Tel: +47 976 72 806
Email: odd-geir.lyngstad@elkem.no
Hans Iver Odenrud, Corporate Communication Manager, Elkem ASA
Tel: +47 958 16 230
Email: hans.iver.odenrud@elkem.no
About Vianode, an Elkem company
Vianode, an Elkem company, is a producer of sustainably engineered battery materials that increases safety and reduces charging time in electric vehicles and enables better solutions for energy storage applications. Please also visit www.vianode.com.
About Elkem
Elkem is one of the world’s leading providers of advanced material solutions shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy, and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health, and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 6,800 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2020, Elkem was rated among the world’s top 5% on climate and achieved an operating income of NOK 24.7 billion. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK). www.elkem.com
