In a significant move to enhance America’s battery manufacturing sector, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced over $3 billion in funding for 25 projects across 14 states. This initiative is expected to create over 12,000 jobs and bolster national security by investing in the domestic production of advanced batteries and battery materials.

As part of the "Investing in America" agenda, the US Department of Energy (DOE) revealed that the selected projects will generate a total investment of $16 billion, focusing on critical materials such as lithium. This investment aims to strengthen the U.S. grid, support the electrification of transportation, and promote good-paying union jobs in the battery sector.

US Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “We’re in the midst of a manufacturing revival in the United States… By positioning the US at the forefront of advanced battery manufacturing, we are creating high-paying jobs and strengthening our global economic leadership.”

John Podesta, Senior Advisor to President Biden for International Climate Policy, highlighted the administration's commitment to onshoring the supply chain for electric vehicles and batteries. He stated that these grants would not only boost manufacturing but also tackle the climate crisis.

The DOE's funding will retrofit, expand, and build new facilities for battery-grade processed critical minerals, components, manufacturing, and recycling. Nearly 90% of the selected projects are located in or near disadvantaged communities, aligning with the Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of federal investments benefit marginalized communities.

This strategic investment is seen as a crucial step towards establishing a robust domestic battery supply chain, thereby enhancing America’s energy security and economic competitiveness.