Volta to build Canada’s first battery copper foil plant in Quebec
Source：financialpost.com
From：Taiwan Trade Center, Toronto
Update Time：2023/12/28
Volta Energy's announcement of a copper foil factory in Quebec is a significant step towards strengthening the province's EV supply chain. This state-of-the-art facility will play a vital role in producing essential components for EV batteries, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the electric vehicle industry. The plan for the $750-million factory east of Montreal represents the third international factory for Volta, joining facilities in Luxembourg and Hungary.
Volta, which will operate as Volta Energy Solutions Canada, expects mass production and North American sales of its copper foil to start in 2026. It anticipates producing 25,000 tons of copper foil per year, which will increase to 63,000 tons per year in its second phase – enough material for 2.5 million EV batteries, according to a release.
"Copper foil plays an essential role as a current collector in the construction of lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in EVs. With its strategic geographical location providing privileged access to the North American market and its strong political commitment to making electric vehicle battery production a key sector of its economy, Quebec is the ideal location for Volta's first North American factory," explains Dejae Chin, Chairman of Solus Advanced Materials and Volta Energy Solutions. "The support of the Quebec and Canadian governments as well as the City of Granby was crucial to the success of this inauguration. Our team is committed to increasing the efficiency of the local EV battery supply chain for years to come."
Copper foil assumes a pivotal role as a current collector in the construction of lithium-ion batteries, commonly utilized in EVs. The strategic geographical location of Quebec, offering privileged access to the North American market, coupled with its unwavering political commitment to making electric vehicle battery production a cornerstone of its economy, renders Quebec the ideal setting for Volta's inaugural North American factory. This perspective was elucidated by Dejae Chin, Chairman of Solus Advanced Materials and Volta Energy Solutions, who emphasized the indispensable support of the Quebec and Canadian governments, as well as the City of Granby, in realizing this milestone. Chin affirmed their team's dedication to enhancing the efficiency of the local EV battery supply chain for years to come.
To produce copper foil, Volta relies on sustainable cutting-edge technology. Contributing to the circular economy is a priority: sourcing relies on copper residues; scraps created during the process are reintegrated into the production chain to reduce waste; steam and heat from the electrolysis process are transformed and redistributed to heat the plant and control its temperature; onsite water treatment stations ensure that water is recycled and reused to the highest capacity.
"Volta brings unique advantages and expertise to the region. Its commitment to advanced technology, sustainability, and circular economy practices sets it apart", says Dejae Chin. "Volta's presence in Granby is expected to generate significant positive impacts such as job creation, local sourcing and community engagement".
The production of essential components like copper foil and the establishment of EV manufacturing plants are vital steps towards achieving Quebec's vision of becoming a global leader in the electric vehicle industry. These developments not only create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth but also contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner, greener future.
Source: https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/solus-unit-to-build-quebec-ev-plant