New chemistry batteries planned for 2025

Alsym says its proprietary battery technology avoids lithium and cobalt, taking advantage of readily available materials that are inherently non-flammable, non-toxic and easier to recycle. The company also promises to provide the performance of lithium-ion batteries at a fraction of the cost and without the inherent risk of fire. The company’s batteries are also less sensitive to raw material shortages and price volatility due to their use of low-cost materials with robust supply chains.

The company has not disclosed the specific battery chemistry, but PV Magazine reports that the cathode is primarily manganese oxide, the anode is a different metal oxide, and the electrolyte is water-based.

The company will provide Synergy and Nissen Kaiun with 1GW of batteries per year for three years starting in the company’s first year of high-volume production in 2025, conditional on the battery systems meeting key performance levels and regulatory requirements specific to cargo ships.

Alsym’s batteries can be used to propel cargo ships as they enter and leave port, power berthed ships, and support peak shaving applications at sea.

The company plans to start pilot manufacturing its non-flammable batteries for EVs, ships, and stationary storage later this year at its facility in Massachusetts.

“Zero-emission vessels are the future of maritime shipping, and we’re working with like-minded owners, including Nissen Kaiun, to decarbonize every part of the ecosystem as quickly as possible,” said Captain Rajesh Unni, Founder and CEO of Synergy Marine Group. “By lowering the cost of electrification and minimizing the risk of battery-related fire events, Alsym’s technology is well-placed to be a safer alternative that can help the shipping industry meet its goal of zero net emissions by 2050—especially in light of the European Commission’s recent proposal to classify lithium as toxic.”

By using low-cost, inherently non-flammable raw materials with robust global supply chains, Alsym aims to provide batteries at a fraction of the cost of lithium-based technologies, making electrification both safe and economically viable. These batteries can help reduce risks to crew and cargo, as well as lower insurance costs for fleet managers and shippers.

“Synergy Marine is on the cutting edge of technology in the maritime sector, and we’re honoured to be part of their journey to work with owners in their transition away from fossil fuels,” said Mukesh Chatter, President and CEO at Alsym Energy. “By manufacturing batteries from low-cost, readily available materials that are inherently non-flammable and non-toxic, we’re providing an economically-viable way to help them decarbonize while also lowering operating expenditures and insurance costs associated with lithium and cobalt-based battery technologies.”