Statevolt to Invest US$3.2bn and Build New Battery Cell Gigafactory in UAE

Statevolt, a US-based company focused on green industrialization and low carbon energy solutions, has unveiled plans to build a cutting-edge battery cell gigafactory in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK). Under the name Statevolt Emirates, this venture in the UAE is poised to revolutionize the energy storage sector with a capital investment of US$3.2 billion.

The facility will specialize in semi-solid battery cells initially, with plans to transition to solid-state battery cells upon reaching full capacity. Spanning across 60 hectares in the Al Ghail Industrial Park at Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), the project anticipates generating up to 2,500 direct employment opportunities.

Statevolt has currently established factories in the US, UK, and Italy and works with local partners depending on their project needs.

Key goals of the project

Statevolt envisions its gigafactory as a beacon of innovation in battery technology, prioritizing safety and longevity. It aims to deliver adaptable battery solutions capable of thriving in diverse climates and conditions.

Our gigafactory in Ras Al Khaimah will specialise in battery cells production. It is a technology agnostic modular production facility, first lines of which will be dedicated to semi-solid battery cells, moving to solid-state battery cells when activating further lines. We plan to reach a production capacity of 40 GWH. – Lars Carlstrom, Founder and CEO of Statevolt, Speaking to Gulf Business

Statevolt battery cells will serve multiple purposes, including energy storage solutions (ESS), electric vehicles (EVs), and marine applications. However, the company’s primary strategy and emphasis will be meeting the escalating global demand for ESS, which are indispensable for grid stabilization, bolstering renewable energy integration, and enhancing energy efficiency.

Statevolt have framed their investment as aligned with the UAE’s Road to Net Zero vision. The company’s cutting-edge batteries can facilitate various applications leading to the decarbonization of key sectors.

Choice of RAK in the UAE

Statevolt has announced that it has obtained a commercial land agreement in RAKEZ, marking the initial milestone in the progression of this upcoming project. Subsequent steps will involve securing building permits, with the aim of having the first production line fully operational by the end of 2026.

The UAE’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and green objectives played a significant role in Statevolt’s selection of RAK for its latest venture, according to CEO and Founder, Lars Carlstrom, who believes it will contribute to the UAE’s Vision 2031 and Road to Net Zero.

RAK’s Energy Efficiency and Renewables Strategy 2040 presented an opportunity for sustainable and innovative developments, making it suitable ground for Statevolt’s new facility.

Recognizing the potential of Statevolt, RAK authorities have supported the venture at every stage, according to Carlstrom.

The company has also committed to investing in the community, including educational programs and upskilling initiatives for its residents, in harmony with the UAE’s Emiratization objectives.

Target customers and production plan

Statevolt Emirates’ post-production strategies involve the distribution of their next-generation batteries to various markets, capitalizing on their strategic location in the UAE. Situated closer to significant export destinations like Africa and India, this positioning enhances logistical efficiency and streamlines business operations.

The company anticipates serving a diverse array of customers, spanning industries such as battery parks and consumer-focused products like power walls. Their overarching objective is to fulfil the escalating demand for sustainable energy solutions in fast developing emerging markets, particularly Africa and India, all while maintaining stringent quality standards.

The initial production line of the factory is slated to yield approximately 6 GWh of cells. With the addition of further production lines and the factory operating at full capacity, the output is expected to scale up to 40 GWh.

The Statevolt Emirates’ gigafactory operated will pursue achieving sustainable production through optimization of production processes, resulting in superior energy efficiency when compared to conventional manufacturing plants.

Over the long term, the gigafactory aims to transition towards clean energy sources, effectively minimizing emissions associated with battery production. Operating on a large scale enables substantial investments in innovative technologies. These include advanced automation and recycling systems aimed at curtailing energy consumption and minimizing waste generation.

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