Next-Gen Energy Technology (Next-Gen) and Siemens have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will accelerate Next-Gen’s efforts to establish the first Li (NCA) cathode materials manufacturing plant outside of China.
Lithium NCA cathode materials use critical minerals that are currently mined in multiple states of Australia but sent offshore for refining and processing in China.
Speaking on the collaboration, Andrew Cooper, CEO of Next-Gen said, “Our Lithium NCA solution is world first, transformative and nation building. We are 100% Australian owned and operated but with a depth of knowledge in energy storage materials development. We have some of the world’s leading experts in lithium technology who have worked with us to develop our patented technology.
This new knowledge will now be transferred to Australia to provide employment and export opportunities. This project will be the centrepiece for the battery value chain and has already attracted both upstream and downstream global investment and will help strengthen Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities”.
Speaking on the announcement Darryl Kaufmann, head of Digital Industries for Siemens in Australia and New Zealand said, “Technology and digitalization are the key to increasing manufacturing complexity and sovereign capability whilst accelerating sustainability in Australia”.
“Being the largest automation and industrial software company in the world, we’re making our technology more accessible than ever so that companies like Next-Gen can bring their innovations to life through powerful tools such as digital twin. We’re proud to extend our support to organisations such as Next-Gen who are pushing the boundaries of local innovation, manufacturing and supply chain.”
