Industry

U.S. tightens security lock on ESS; Korean battery makers with North American plants eye order rally

The U.S. government has designated battery energy storage systems as equipment tied to national security, raising expectations that Korean battery makers with U.S. production bases will win more North American ESS orders in the second half. LG Energy Solution expects new ESS orders of 70 GWh in the second half, while SK On has secured a deal to supply 9 GWh over five years. Samsung SDI is converting EV production lines to ESS.

Industry

LG Energy Solution secures long-term lithium carbonate supply in U.S.

LG Energy Solution said on Sept. 1 it signed a long-term lithium carbonate supply agreement with U.S. developer Smackover Lithium, a joint venture set up by Standard Lithium and Norway’s state-owned energy company Equinor. Starting in 2029, the company will receive a total of 80,000 tons over 10 years. LG Energy Solution said the deal helps it respond to rising demand, meet IRA requirements and strengthen supply chain and ESG competitiveness in North America.