U.S. Sodium-Ion Battery Production by Alsym-Re:Build Partnership
In a significant move for America’s clean energy supply chain, Alsym Energy and Re:Build Manufacturing have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop commercial-scale U.S. sodium-ion battery production. Announced today, the partnership aims to address surging demand for safe, cost-effective battery storage amid the rapid growth of renewable energy and data centers.
This collaboration combines Alsym’s advanced sodium-ion technology with Re:Build’s manufacturing expertise to create a fully domestic supply chain. The initiative is expected to strengthen U.S. energy security while offering a compelling alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. As utilities, developers, and technology companies seek reliable energy storage solutions, this partnership could accelerate deployment of sodium-ion batteries energy storage systems across the country.
What is the Alsym-Re:Build Sodium-Ion Battery Partnership?
Alsym Energy, a developer of high-performance, non-flammable sodium-ion batteries, and Re:Build Manufacturing, a leader in advanced domestic production, plan to establish commercial-scale sodium-ion battery cell manufacturing at Re:Build’s existing facility in New Kensington, Pennsylvania.
The MOU focuses on scaling production of Alsym’s Na-Series batteries, which use abundant, low-cost materials. This move marks an important step in expanding domestic battery manufacturing USA, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains. New Kensington, with its rich industrial history, was chosen for its skilled workforce and manufacturing infrastructure.
Why Sodium-Ion Batteries Are a Game-Changer for Energy Storage
The limitations of lithium-ion technology have become more pronounced as energy storage demand explodes. Lithium-ion cells are highly flammable, creating safety concerns that slow project approvals and restrict deployments in urban and sensitive areas.
Non-flammable sodium-ion battery technology from Alsym eliminates thermal runaway risks, offering a safer profile without sacrificing performance. These batteries also provide strong economics through lower material costs and a wide operating temperature range that reduces the need for expensive cooling systems.
Key applications include:
- AI data centers requiring high-cycle, reliable backup power
- Utility-scale renewable integration
- Commercial and industrial (C&I) facilities
- Urban deployments where fire regulations limit lithium-ion use
In sodium-ion vs lithium-ion comparisons, sodium-ion stands out for stationary storage where weight and energy density are less critical than safety, cost, and sustainability.
Key Benefits of This Domestic Manufacturing Initiative
This partnership delivers multiple advantages for the energy storage sector:
- Non-flammable chemistry — Enables faster permitting and broader siting options for energy storage systems (ESS).
- IRA 45X tax credit eligibility — Projects can maximize benefits under the Inflation Reduction Act through domestic production.
- Reduced supply chain risks (non-FEOC) — Creates a reliable, non-foreign entity of concern supply chain compliant with tax credits and defense procurement rules.
- Faster deployment and lower logistics costs — Local manufacturing shortens lead times and cuts shipping expenses.
- Support for U.S. energy security — Strengthens national resilience in critical energy infrastructure.
These benefits position the partnership as a practical solution for developers facing both safety and supply chain challenges.
Strategic Impact on U.S. Energy Security and Renewable Transition
By onshoring U.S. sodium-ion battery production, the collaboration supports the Biden-era goals of revitalizing American manufacturing while advancing the renewable energy transition. The facility in Pennsylvania is expected to create skilled jobs in a region eager for advanced manufacturing opportunities.
Re:Build already has deep experience in battery pack and module assembly. Expanding into cell manufacturing creates a more vertically integrated domestic solution. This is particularly timely as commitments for energy storage continue to grow rapidly, driven by AI power demands and state-level clean energy mandates.
The project reinforces America’s push to reduce dependence on overseas battery production, especially from regions with geopolitical risks.
Quotes from Leadership
“At Alsym, we believe the world needs safe, low cost, high performance batteries. Our Na-Series batteries are filling the critical energy needs for AI data centers, utilities, commercial real estate and other industries. It is a better battery for energy storage. Partnering with Re:Build allows us to accelerate our roadmap toward domestic commercial production. Their expertise in precision manufacturing and battery components is the perfect match for us. Together, we are providing a path for ESS integrators and developers to access high-quality cells that are not only non-flammable and high performance but are backed by a reliable, non-FEOC supply chain that is fully compliant with tax credit and Defense procurement rules.”
– Mukesh Chatter, CEO of Alsym Energy | Source: Alsym Energy
“Cell manufacturing is central to our mission of revitalizing American manufacturing. We have seen an immense ‘thirst’ from customers for a battery supply chain that is reliable and located right here in the U.S. Alsym’s technology is a game-changer for the stationary storage market. By collaborating on the development of commercial-scale cell manufacturing, we are positioning ourselves to meet the massive commitments our customers have already made to these cleaner, safer technologies.”
– Miles Arnone, CEO of Re:Build Manufacturing. | Source: Alsym Energy
What This Means for the Future of Sodium-Ion Batteries
The sodium-ion market is gaining momentum as developers seek alternatives to lithium-ion for long-duration and daily-cycle applications. With Alsym already announcing nearly 9 GWh in customer commitments, this manufacturing partnership could significantly de-risk supply for large-scale projects.
Industry analysts expect sodium-ion batteries’ energy storage to capture a growing share of the stationary storage market, particularly where safety and cost outweigh the need for maximum energy density. Success in Pennsylvania could encourage further investment in domestic battery innovation and production capacity.
Conclusion
The Alsym Energy and Re:Build Manufacturing partnership represents a meaningful advancement in domestic battery manufacturing in the USA. By focusing on safe, affordable, and domestically produced non-flammable sodium-ion battery technology, the two companies are helping to solve real-world barriers in the energy storage industry.
As the U.S. accelerates its clean energy goals, initiatives like this will play a vital role in building a resilient, secure, and competitive battery ecosystem. The project not only supports immediate deployment needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term technological leadership.
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