In the EV battery industry, Chicago-based NanoGraf has been awarded a $60 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to construct a state-of-the-art silicon anode battery material factory in Flint, Michigan. 

According to NanoGraf, this grant, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will contribute to a total $175 million investment in the plant. The project aims at enhancing production capacity to 2,500 tons of silicon anode material annually. This plant will support the production of up to 1.5 million EVs each year. In addition, the initiative is expected to create 200 construction jobs and 150 permanent operational positions, contributing to the local economy and workforce development.

The DOE’s grant to NanoGraf is part of a larger $3 billion initiative spread across 14 states, aimed at strengthening the domestic production of advanced batteries and battery materials. NanoGraf’s project stands out as one of 25 selected for this crucial funding.

Francis Wang, CEO of NanoGraf, emphasized the company’s commitment to the U.S. battery supply chain stating, “As a U.S.-based and U.S.-founded company, we’re committed to strengthening the domestic battery supply chain—and this factory is a big step forward. Our expansion into Michigan will allow us to leap to larger scale production to meet national demands for high-performing EV batteries and consumer electronics.”

NanoGraf specializes in advanced silicon anode battery material, which enables the production of stronger, lighter, and longer-lasting lithium-ion batteries. This technology is crucial for improving the performance of EVs and other battery-dependent products.

The new Flint plant will be NanoGraf’s third production site, expanding the company’s total manufacturing footprint to over 414,000 square feet. It is set to become one of the world’s largest silicon anode plants, significantly boosting U.S. efforts to onshore the battery supply chain.

The project showcases a robust commitment to local community development and labor relations. Around 80% of the 150 permanent jobs created will be filled by residents from the local community, ensuring that the benefits of the project are felt nearby.

To further enhance labor relations, a project labor agreement has been established with the North American Building Trades Union, which is expected to generate around 200 construction jobs. This partnership highlights the project’s dedication to providing quality employment opportunities. Moreover, the company plans to implement a community benefits program that will focus on workforce development, education, and apprenticeships.

Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley welcomed the development stating, “The combined investment from NanoGraf and the Department of Energy will ensure domestic access to innovative battery technology, meeting future demand for higher-performing EVs, and creating high-paying jobs that will benefit Flint for years to come.”

As global competition in EV technology intensifies, domestic production of advanced battery materials becomes increasingly important for maintaining technological leadership and economic competitiveness.

NanoGraf’s expansion also highlights the growing trend of revitalizing traditional manufacturing hubs with high-tech industries. The choice of Flint, a city with a rich automotive history, for this cutting-edge plant symbolizes the evolving landscape of American manufacturing.

Read More: DOE Unveils $50M Grant Program To Enhance EV Manufacturing In Key States

As the project moves forward, it will be closely watched by industry observers as a bellwether for the success of federal investments in advanced manufacturing and clean energy technologies.

Want to learn more about EV? Thinking of buying an EV? Head over to EV.com discover more.

EV.com is the world’s 1st Electric Vehicle (EV) marketplace that aims to promote zero-emission mobility by providing a platform for consumers to learn about, compare, and purchase EVs.