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Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform

AGATHE - Making battery production more efficient and sustainable

From scale to sustainability
AGATHE reshapes battery production in Dunkirk

AGATHE expands Verkor’s battery factory in France while introducing advanced automation, artificial intelligence and high-rate reuse of production materials. 

 

Verkor - Cells and modules
Aerial view of the Verkor gigafactory
© Verkor

The AGATHE project involves expanding Verkor's battery factory in Dunkirk, France, doubling its production capacity from 8 GWh to 16 GWh. This expansion incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including automation and artificial intelligence to make manufacturing more efficient and sustainable. A notable feature is the introduction of a pre-recycling facility on-site, which can reuse over 95% of production leftovers, significantly decreasing waste and energy use. By adopting these advanced methods, the project not only improves product quality and reduces emissions but also promises a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to over 12 million tonnes of CO2 in ten years.

Beyond just increasing capacity, the AGATHE project promotes independence in the industry's material supply chain, supports environmental sustainability, and creates skilled jobs. Ultimately, it serves as a model for future factories, showcasing how they can be built efficiently and replicate its success elsewhere. 

This initiative strengthens Europe's position in the global battery market and plays a part in the transition towards clean energy.

  • Beneficiaries

    Coordinator: Verkor

    Participants: Giga Verkor Immo - Rekovr

  • Project Locations

    France

  • EU funding

    €76.3 million

  • Funding source
STEP Seal label the visual symbol of high-quality project proposals

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