Introduction to Portugal s lithium battery energy storage project

Will a lithium battery factory be built in Portugal?

According to the latest report on February 21st, battery manufacturer CALB will invest 2 billion euros (approximately Yuan 15.1684 billion) in Sines, Portugal to build a lithium battery factory aimed at providing high-performance energy storage batteries for the European electric vehicle industry.

Why should Portugal invest in a battery factory?

“Our factory will not only create new jobs but will also place Portugal at the forefront of the production of batteries for electric vehicles in Europe,” he highlights. According to CALB, “this strategic investment” aims to “reinforce its presence in the European market for electric vehicles (EV) and energy storage systems (BESS)”.

Can Portugal build a fully integrated lithium supply chain?

Alongside Spain, Portugal is leveraging its abundant lithium deposits to build a fully integrated supply chain, covering: Strengthening Europe’s battery ecosystem by reducing reliance on Chinese manufacturers will enhance supply chain security and create a more resilient local production network for lithium-ion batteries.

Should Portugal produce battery-grade LI-compounds?

Therefore, the production of battery-grade Li-compounds in Portugal would aid the EU in lessening its dependence on external sources for this strategic metal, assisting as well in increasing the domestic supply of raw materials for battery manufacturing. Portugal has been the sole European lithium producer since 2011 (USGS 2024).

Is Portugal a key player in the global battery value chain?

Portugal has taken monumental steps in establishing itself as a key player in the global battery value chain. Five major initiatives have been announced recently, marking a transformative moment for the nation’s green energy ambitions. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments:

Does Portugal have a lithium reserve?

Despite Portugal's relatively small reserve, there are parallels with controversies related to lithium mining in the much-studied Lithium Triangle of Latin America. Yet, there are also differences in terms of the social process, related to how power manifests.