Norwegian start-up Morrow Batteries has opened Europe’s first gigawatt-scale factory for LFP batteries in Arendal, Norway.
Reaching another significant milestone, Morrow will be able to produce up to 3 million battery cells annually, or 1 GWh capacity.
Test production has already started. Morrow will work closely with customers to fine-tune the production equipment to achieve serial production quality over the following months. Commercial production will commence at the end of the year.
The plant is Europe’s first gigafactory for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.
“This is a hugely important day in Norwegian industrial history and a testament to the bold vision and risk-taking spirit of our founders and the dedication of our diverse team of Morrowers, now consisting of 200 individuals from 34 nationalities. Our achievements today would not have been possible without the unwavering support from the Arendal municipality, local and national government, and our committed shareholders. Together, we are paving the way for a sustainable energy future to make Europe more competitive and safe”, said Lars Christian Bacher, CEO of Morrow Batteries.
“As a result of the efforts put in by many, Arendal has become the first city in Europe to host a giga LFP factory, contributing jobs, value-creation, and positioned for significant export revenues. We look forward to delivering the first commercial batteries to customers by the year’s end, ” he adds.
LFP batteries are rapidly becoming an important building block for the zero-emission society. They dominate Battery Energy Storage Systems, heavy-duty machinery and mid-range electric vehicles.
Since November last year, Morrow has produced and shipped thousands of LFP sample cells to potential customers for testing and validation at the company’s Customer Qualification Line (CQL). The company can now deliver a commercially viable, thoroughly tested, competitive LFP product.
Norway is particularly suitable for battery manufacturing because of its process industry and material technology industrial track record, a long tradition of engineering and industrial innovation, abundant access to renewable power and a labour model that ensures competent and committed employees.
More than 366.000 working hours, or 200 man-years, were required to install the dry room, utilities, and production equipment. During construction, 1.650 people completed mandatory health safety and security (HSE) training. No accidents occurred during construction or equipment installation.
Morrow Cell Factory will employ about 150 people working a shift schedule. It is the first of four factories planned in Arendal.
