Cleaner Tech
Sodium Batteries From Michigan to Challenge Lithium’s Grip
Natron Energy’s batteries boast cheap materials, fast response.
Natron Energy has already started making cells at its Michigan plant and plans its first shipments in June.
Photographer: Natron EnergyThis article is for subscribers only.
Modern life runs on lithium-ion batteries, powering smartphones, laptops and electric cars alike. But as dominant as they’ve become, there are other ways to build a battery.
Natron Energy Inc. will unveil what it bills as the first full-scale plant in the US for making sodium-ion batteries on Monday. The plant situated near Michigan’s western shore has already started making cells and plans its first shipments in June.