Clarios Plans $1 Billion Investment in Critical Minerals Processing Plant

Clarios, the world’s largest manufacturer and recycler of low-voltage batteries, has announced its decision to invest up to $1 billion in a state-of-the-art critical minerals processing and recovery plant in the United States.

This initiative represents a significant advancement in Clarios’ strategy to bolster the domestic supply of critical minerals, as stated in a news release on Tuesday.

Based in Glendale, Wisconsin, Clarios is owned by global investment firm Brookfield and operates 16 manufacturing and distribution centers throughout the U.S.

Potential Locations and Project Funding

For the new facility, Clarios has already conducted preliminary site assessments and is considering Indiana, Texas, or Utah as potential locations for this investment.

This project forms part of Clarios’ broader $6 billion energy manufacturing strategy and is expected to receive backing from federal government advanced manufacturing tax credits.

Technological Advances and Market Demand

The upcoming critical mineral processing and recovery plant will employ advanced technologies to extract antimony and other vital minerals from recycled materials. This process aims to enhance both the efficiency and sustainability of recycling efforts.

Antimony, essential for the production of ammunition, infrared sensors, and precision optics, has seen a surge in demand, particularly after China implemented export controls last September. Following this move, the price of antimony has more than tripled.

Alignment with National Security Goals

Clarios asserts that its strategy is in line with the U.S. government’s initiative to strengthen domestic critical mineral supplies. The administration has stressed the importance of these resources for national security and economic growth, as demonstrated by recent executive orders aimed at increasing supply and reducing reliance on foreign sources.

“By investing in critical mineral processing and recovery, Clarios is supporting these national security priorities and contributing to the resilience of the U.S. supply chain,” the company noted.

Recent Corporate Developments

Previously, Clarios had filed to go public in the U.S. in 2021 but later suspended those plans due to macroeconomic pressures. Earlier this year, the company officially withdrew its IPO plans.