- Element Energy commissions the world’s largest 53 MWh energy storage facility in Texas, which uses repurposed EV batteries connected to the ERCOT grid.
- The project reuses 900 EV batteries, reducing waste and carbon emissions, backed by $7.9 million from the U.S. Department of Energy.
- Element Energy secured $111 million in funding to scale its innovative battery reuse solutions for grid-scale energy storage projects.
Element Energy, a California-based company, has launched the world’s largest energy storage facility using repurposed electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The 53 MWh installation, operational since May 2024, now connects to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid, marking a significant advancement in sustainable energy storage.
The project uses 900 recycled EV batteries, extending their lifecycle through advanced technology inspired by the semiconductor industry. This method reduces waste and carbon emissions, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional battery recycling processes.
In 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provided $7.9 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support second-life battery technologies. This funding helped Element Energy commercially launch the Texas facility and advance its mission to meet the rising demand for energy storage solutions.
“Our technology closes the loop for energy storage and enhances battery safety,” said Dr. Tony Stratakos, CEO and Co-Founder of Element Energy. “This project validates our vision and pushes us to accelerate second-life battery deployment.”
Element Energy’s strategy for reusing batteries delivers significant environmental benefits. For every 2 GWh of reconditioned batteries, the company prevents 8,500 metric tons of waste and cuts carbon emissions by 150 metric tons. So far, Element Energy has processed nearly 2 GWh of used batteries and plans to expand these efforts to larger grid-scale projects.
Element Energy raised $111 million earlier this year to support future projects. The funding includes $73 million in Series B equity investments and a $38 million debt facility from Keyframe Capital Partners, providing the financial backing needed to scale their sustainable energy solutions.
The Texas facility showcases Element Energy’s ability to tackle the growing global demand for energy storage. Reusing EV batteries addresses waste management issues and supports the energy sector’s transition to greener storage options.
With the demand for renewable energy storage rising, Element Energy’s approach highlights the future of sustainable energy solutions. By focusing on repurposing used batteries and minimising environmental impact, the company positions itself at the forefront of circular energy storage innovation.
Element Energy’s Texas project and its plans for future deployments demonstrate the potential of second-life batteries to become a critical component of the energy storage industry, offering ecological and financial gains.