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TSX:NANO)(OTC PINK:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB
Q3 2023 Highlights and Headlines
Nano One Provides Quarterly Progress Update and Reports Q3 2023 Results
- Strategic investment and Collaboration Agreement with Sumitomo Metal Mining (SMM)
- Cash position of $26.0 million at quarter end ($43.0 million post-SMM strategic investment)
- Working capital of $22.0 million at quarter end ($39.0 million post-SMM strategic investment)
- Pre-Feasibility Study Completed for One-Pot LFP Production Lines
- LFP from Commercial Size Reactors and Customer Samples Delivered
nano one® Materials Corp. ("nano one" or the "Company") is a clean technology company with patented processes for the production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials that enable secure and resilient supply chains by driving down cost, complexity, energy intensity, and environmental footprint. nano one has filed its condensed interim consolidated financial statements (the "financial statements"), and management's discussion & analysis ("MD&A") as at and for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 ("Q3 2023") and is pleased to provide the following highlights from Q3 2023.
Corporate Milestones and Developments for Q3 2023
Strategic Investment and Collaboration Agreement with Sumitomo Metal Mining
On October 5, 2023, nano one and Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. ( "SMM", together with nano one, the "Companies") closed a transaction whereby the Companies agreed to a strategic equity investment in nano one by SMM of approximately $17,000,000 and entered into a collaboration agreement under which the Companies will work together to accelerate the commercial production of lithium iron phosphate ("LFP"), cathode active materials ("CAM") and nickel-rich CAM chemistries, such as lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide ("NMC"). SMM is a leading vertically integrated miner, refiner and producer of CAM.
nano one issued a total of 5,498,355 common shares (the "Shares"), representing approximately 5% of the current issued and outstanding Shares of nano one, at $3.07 per Share ($16,879,950) in a non-brokered private placement.
nano one intends to use the proceeds principally towards the conversion of its existing Candiac LFP manufacturing facility to a One-Pot production scale pilot plant, nickel and manganese-rich engineering, and piloting activities, and for working capital purposes.
Pre-Feasibility Study of One-Pot LFP Production Lines Completed
On October 23, 2023, the Company announced the completion of its Front-End Loading (FEL) 2 pre-feasibility study with Hatch Ltd., which estimates that the capacity for a One-Pot LFP production line is 12,500 tonnes per annum ("tpa") and that two such lines (25,000 tpa) could be built within a 167,000 sq. ft. building, making it more efficient in size, footprint, and capital cost than other commercial methods of making LFP.
nano one is actively exploring site locations for its expansion plans, including but not limited to its existing site in Candiac, Québec, and is engaged with governments in various jurisdictions where access to financial incentives and technology attraction programs could further increase shareholder value and stakeholder interests.
LFP from Commercial Size Reactors and Customer Samples Delivered
On September 14, 2023, the Company announced that recent One-Pot trials in the existing reactors at the Candiac plant have produced LFP at commercial scale with performance results consistent to lab scale. nano one has leapfrogged to full commercial size reactors and its LFP can be shipped to select customers for evaluation.
With nano one's existing commercial reactors, it has continued to optimize trials in the existing commercial scale reactors, reproducing lab and development results. This demonstrates the One-Pot process can scale to commercial volumes and advances the de-risking of the technology at commercial scale. This rapid advancement allows commercial scale LFP samples to be sent to qualified customers, for thorough evaluation and validation for the purposes of entering binding offtake agreements.
Q3 2023 Financial Position and Results
- Cash position at quarter end of $26.0 million, plus approximately $17.0 million subsequently raised through a strategic equity investment by SMM resulting in a cash position post-SMM investment of $43.0 million
- Working capital at quarter end of $22.0 million ($39.0 million post-SMM investment)
- Total assets of $46.0M (pre-SMM investment) at quarter end
- Total liabilities of $7.4M with no long-term debt at quarter end
- Net use of cash and cash equivalents of $8.4M for the quarter ($13.4M year-to-date)
- Total gross investment (capitalized and expensed) before allocations of government funding on at its Candiac plant including equipment, retrofitting, engineering, and expansion totalled $8.6M (year-to-date)
Annual budgeting planning activities are underway, with a base shelf prospectus to be filed following standard company governance practices to fund expansion plans.
For a more detailed discussion of nano one's interim Q3 2023 results, please refer to the Company's financial statements, and MD&A which are available at www.sedar.com.
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About nano one®
nano one materials corp. (nano one) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like Sumitomo Metal Mining, BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. nano one's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. The Company aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. nano one has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca
Company Contact:
Paul Guedes
info@nanoone.ca
(604) 420-2041
Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements
Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes but is not limited to: the Company's current and future business and strategies; estimated future working capital, funds available, and uses of funds, future capital expenditures and other expenses for commercial operations; results of the FEL 2 pre-feasibility study and timely completion of the FEL 3 study; industry demand; potential offtake commitments; projected revenue generation; ability to obtain employees, consultants or advisors with specialized skills and knowledge; joint development programs; incurrence of costs; competitive conditions; general economic conditions; the intention to grow the business, operations and potential activities of the Company; the functions and intended benefits of nano one's technology and products; the development and optimization of the Company's technology and products; the commencement of a commercialization phase; prospective partnerships and the anticipated benefits of the Company's partnerships; the Company's licensing, supply chain, joint venture opportunities and potential royalty arrangements; the purpose for expanding the Candiac facilities; the scalability of developed technology to meet expanded capacity; access to skilled labour, permits, and provincial and municipal utilities; and the execution of the Company's stated plans - which are contingent on access to capital and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', ‘target', ‘goal', ‘potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of the Company's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of cathode production facilities; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of the Company's plans which are contingent on support and grants; the Company's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of the Company's technology and patents via license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in nano one's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for the Company which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
SOURCE: nano one materials corp.
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Pre-Feasibility Study Anticipates 10X Increase in Capacity for Nano One LFP Site in Québec
Highlights:
- FEL 2 study estimates capacity at nano one Candiac can be increased by 10X, up to 25,000 tpa.
- Compact design cuts down land and water use, adding further value to the One-Pot Process.
- Potential to create 140+ full-time jobs, 1000+ indirect jobs and generate $50M in tax revenue over first 5 years.
- nano one readying to address a 2035 LFP market estimated at approximately 3 million tonnes and $48 billion per year in North America, the EU and Indo-Pacific regions.[i]
TSX:NANO)(OTC PINK:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB) nano one® Materials Corp. ("nano one" or the "Company") a clean technology company with patented processes for the production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials is pleased to announce the completion of its Front-End Loading (FEL) 2 pre-feasibility study with Hatch Ltd, which estimates that nano one could add 25,000 tonnes per annum ("tpa") of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) production capacity to its Candiac property, potentially making it significantly more efficient in size, footprint, and capital cost than other commercial methods of making LFP
" The study anticipates that the optimal production line capacity for One-Pot LFP is 12,500 tonnes per year, " stated Dan Blondal, CEO, " and that two such lines may fit in a 167,000 square foot facility at our Candiac site. Capacity could be added in 2 stages to synchronize with demand, supporting about 12.5 gigawatt hours of LFP cell manufacturing and increasing our capacity by 10x with only a 2x increase in footprint, when compared to the existing 2,400 tonne facility. This is a leap forward for our One-Pot process made possible by fewer units of operation, high efficiency kilns and by eliminating all wastewaters, by-products, and treatment thereof.
"The land and water use implications alone add significant value to the One-Pot Process and bolster our strategic objectives to engineer, package and license low cost, low footprint LFP production plants, for rapid turnkey deployment with partners in North America, Europe, Japan and other regions. "
Image 1.nano one FEL2 pre-feasibility study anticipates a 25,000 tpa Commercial LFP Plant in Candiac, Québec.
The FEL 2 study is at the prefeasibility stage and defines (a) the potential production line size, (b) the optimal plant size for nano one's site in Candiac, Québec, and provides (c) operating cost estimates and (d) Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE) class 4 estimates of the capital cost. Cost estimates are based on equipment quotes from various major vendors, installation factors, indirect costs, and best practices in engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM). Specifics on cost are commercially sensitive and held in confidence to allow the company to engage effectively in product pricing discussions with customers. LFP sample evaluation with customers is underway, with the goal of securing offtake commitments and building out production capacity to suit.
nano one is actively engaged with governments, not only in Québec, but also in other jurisdictions where access to financial incentives and technology attraction programs could further increase shareholder value and stakeholder interests.
Based on the FEL 2 pre-feasibility study and subsequent Economic Impact Assessment conducted by the Institut de la Statistique du Québec, it was determined that the project has the potential to create 149 direct, full-time highly skilled jobs and 1065 indirect jobs. In addition, the project has the potential to generate tax revenues for the Governments of Québec and Canada of approximately $35 million during construction and over $17 million annually when at full capacity. It could generate roughly $450 million in economic activity in Québec in the first five years.
Denis Geoffroy, CCO added, " The proposed facility could potentially supply Gigafactories announced in the US and Canada, creating new opportunities all while helping jurisdictions source local feedstock and meet GHG reduction targets."
The FEL 2 study relies on a process design basis from January 2023. Subsequent to this, nano one has identified further potential cost reductions from its full-scale trials and fast-tracking results, as disclosed on September 14, 2023. These anticipated improvements will be factored into an FEL 3 feasibility study, improving project capital and operating costs and energy usage. The FEL 3 study is out for tender and anticipated to kick off in November 2023 and conclude Q3 2024.
Alex Holmes, COO commented, "The FEL 3 study will define a stand-alone facility for expansion purposes, optimal financing, sighting, and joint venture opportunities. Timing of the study is aligned with the execution of our roadmap, as disclosed on April 24, 2023 and is synchronized with project finance, government funding, customer support and further strategic investment activities. Following the closing of our deal with Sumitomo Metals Mining, nano one is in a strong cash position with approximately $41 million in cash and cash equivalents. We continue to execute on our plans and look forward to meeting our milestones on the path to commercialization. "
As previously disclosed, Sumitomo Metals Mining made an equity investment of C$16.9M in nano one on October 5, 2023, and entered into a collaboration agreement to support the piloting and commercial adoption of nano one's sulphate-free LFP and NMC CAM. This is complementary to nano one's existing joint development programs with Rio Tinto, BASF, Umicore and Our Next Energy, in its bid to expand and address CAM markets in North America, Europe and the Indo-Pacific region that are projected to reach approximately 2.7 million tons of NMC and 3 million tons of LFP by 2035, for an LFP market value of approximately $48 billion and a combined total market value of approximately $146 billion. i
About nano one®
nano one materials corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like Sumitomo Metal Mining, BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. nano one's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. The Company aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. nano one has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca
Company Contact:
Paul Guedes
info@nanoone.ca
(604) 420-2041
Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements
Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes but is not limited to: the Company's current andfuture business and strategies; estimated future working capital, funds available, and uses of funds, future capital expenditures and other expenses for commercial operations; results of the FEL 2 pre-feasibility study and timely completion of the FEL 3 study; industry demand; potential offtake commitments; projected revenue generation; ability to obtain employees, consultants or advisors with specialized skills and knowledge; joint development programs; incurrence of costs; competitive conditions; general economic conditions; the intention to grow the business, operations and potential activities of the Company; the functions and intended benefits of nano one's technology and products; the development and optimizationof the Company's technology and products;the commencement of a commercialization phase; prospective partnerships and the anticipated benefits of the Company's partnerships; the Company's licensing, supply chain, joint venture opportunities and potential royalty arrangements; the purpose for expanding the Candiac facilities; the scalability of developed technology to meet expanded capacity; and the execution of the Company's stated plans - which are contingent on support and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', ‘target', ‘goal', ‘potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of the Company's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of cathode production facilities; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of the Company's plans which are contingent on support and grants; the Company's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of the Company's technology and patents via license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in nano one's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for the Company which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Hatch disclaims any and all liability arising out of, or in connection with, any third party's use of, or reliance upon, information contained in this press release and the use of this information by any third party is at the risk of that party. The following items were excluded from the project scope of the Hatch project: offsite infrastructure and services; utility connections including water, gas and power; all services are assumed to be available at the site boundary; storage facility for effluent or solid residue are assumed to be discharged to environment or managed/stored by a third party; costs of environmental and ecology related studies; no allowance for study costs (feasibility studies prior to detailed engineering/execution); land acquisitions and associated work land; schedule acceleration costs; schedule delays and associated costs, such as those caused by force majeure; permit applications; forward escalation beyond the estimate base date; government levies and taxes; sustaining capital costs; detailed owner's costs; and tailings or effluent impoundment costs.
[i] Demand data from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence Q2 2023 Lithium Ion Battery Database, pricing assumes the prior 6 months' average from Benchmark's 2023 Monthly Cathode Assessments.
SOURCE: nano one materials corp.
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Nano One Announces Closing of Sumitomo Metal Mining $16.9M Strategic Investment and Collaboration Agreement
TSX:NANO)(OTC PINK:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB)(TSE:5713
nano one® Materials Corp. ("Nano One" or the "Company"), a clean technology company with patented processes for the sustainable production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials, is pleased to announce the closing of the strategic equity investment and collaboration with Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd ("SMM", together with nano one, the "Companies"), a leading vertically integrated miner, refiner and producer of cathode active materials ("CAM"), announced on September 25, 2023. SMM made an equity investment of C$16,879,949.85 and the Companies entered into a collaboration agreement (the "CA") under which they will work together to accelerate the commercial production of lithium iron phosphate ("LFP"), CAM and nickel-rich CAM chemistries, such as lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide ("NMC").
Investment and Collaboration
SMM purchased by way of private placement, 5,498,355 common shares (the "Shares") of nano one at a price of C$3.07 per share for a total investment into nano one of C$16,879,949.85 (the "Private Placement"). The Shares issued under the Private Placement equate to approximately 5% of the current issued and outstanding Shares of nano one.
The CA involves various aspects primarily centered on supporting the development of battery ecosystems, with a particular focus on LFP and NMC production using the One-Pot process. The collaboration will support technical product optimization for both LFP and NMC, as well as efforts to mitigate supply chain risks. These joint efforts are intended to strengthen and progress the development, design, construction, and operation of nano one's proposed LFP production scale pilot plant, the piloting of nickel- and manganese-rich CAMs, and nano one's first LFP commercial plant.
Additionally, the Companies will look to explore business development opportunities, including future sales and technology licensing, forging long term partnerships and identifying potential investment and financing opportunities to expand operations. In the pursuit of these shared business objectives, the Companies intend to exchange relevant market information and technical expertise to improve the quality and cost of CAM produced by the One-Pot process at the Candiac facilities to meet SMM customer requirements.
The Company intends to use this investment principally towards the conversion of its existing Candiac LFP manufacturing facility to a One-Pot production scale pilot plant, nickel- and manganese-rich engineering, and piloting activities, and for working capital purposes.
Together with the closing of the Private Placement and the CA, the Company entered into an investor rights agreement (the "IRA") whereby the Company granted SMM a participation right in any future equity financings to maintain its pro rata ownership interest for a period of up to three (3) years. Under the IRA, SMM has agreed to a standstill provision that, among other things, restricts SMM's ability to purchase additional shares without nano one's consent for a period of 24 months and restricts SMM's ability to sell the Shares for 12 months, subject to certain exemptions. In addition the Shares are subject to a restricted hold period of four months and a day under applicable Canadian securities legislation
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons (as defined in the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
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About nano one
nano one materials corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. nano one's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. nano one aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. nano one has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca
About Sumitomo Metal Mining
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. (SMM) dates back to 16th Century Copper Mining and Processing in Japan. SMM is an integrated producer covering from mineral resources development, smelting & refining, to the production of battery materials and functional materials. By connecting the core businesses, it has advantages in sustainable value chains. SMM has expertise, deep knowledge and many years of experience in producing various types of precursor cathode active material/cathode active material and aims to increase the production capacity of cathode materials (nickel CAM and LFP) from approximately 60,000 tonnes per annum currently to 180,000 tonnes per annum by 2030.
For more information, please visit https://www.smm.co.jp/en/
Company Contact:
nano one:
Paul Guedes
info@nanoone.ca
(604) 420-2041
Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements
Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to: the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of cathode production facilities; successful collaboration with SMM; industry demand; successful current and future collaborations that are/may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the functions and intended benefits of nano one's technology and products; the development of nano one's technology and products; achieving commercial production of LFP and pilot scale production of NMC at the Candiac facility; nano one's licensing, supply chain, joint venture opportunities and potential royalty arrangements; the purpose for expanding the Candiac facilities and scalability of developed technology; and the execution of nano one's plans - which are contingent on support and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', ‘target', ‘goal', ‘encouraged', ‘projected', ‘potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of nano one to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of nano one's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of the Candiac facility; industry demand; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of nano one's plans which are contingent on support and grants; nano one's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of nano one's technology and patentsvia license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in nano one's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for nano one which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of nano one has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. nano one does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
SOURCE:nano one materials corp.
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Nano One Announces Collaboration Agreement with Sumitomo Metal Mining and a C$16.9 Million Strategic Investment
TSX:NANO)(OTC:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB) and Tokyo, Japan (TSE:5713
Highlights:
- Sumitomo Metal Mining and nano one will partner via Collaboration Agreement.
- Sumitomo Metal Mining will make a C$16.9M equity investment in nano one.
- The Companies intend to jointly explore business development opportunities focused on future sales, licensing, partnerships, investment and financing opportunities for expanded operations.
- Collaboration to support the development of battery ecosystems, with a particular focus on LFP and NMC production using the One-Pot process.
- Includes ongoing research and development for the production of clean, reliable, long-lasting battery materials.
Nano One® Materials Corp. ("Nano One") is a clean technology company with patented processes for the sustainable production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials, and Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. ("SMM", together with nano one, the "Companies") is a leading vertically integrated miner, refiner and producer of cathode active materials ("CAM") with over 400 years of experience. The Companies are pleased to announce that they have agreed to a strategic equity investment in nano one by SMM of C$16,879,949.85 and to enter into a collaboration agreement (a "Collaboration Agreement") under which the parties will work together to accelerate the commercial production of lithium iron phosphate ("LFP"), CAM and nickel-rich CAM chemistries, such as lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide ("NMC").
"This announcement builds on years of technology development and CAM production by both Sumitomo Metal Mining and Nano One Materials," said nano one CEO, Dan Blondal, "and it expresses our joint ambitions to develop and lead world class battery ecosystems and long-term partnerships in the production of LFP and NMC cathode materials. Sumitomo Metal Mining is a world class leader, having pioneered nickel-rich cathode active materials for long range electric vehicle battery applications. We are proud to be partnered with such a reputable and deeply experienced organization and to be jointly addressing emerging market demand in Japan, North America and other global regions."
For over 400 years, SMM has been mining, smelting, refining, and processing metals with a large and diverse customer base that includes nickel-rich cathode materials for lithium-ion battery and electric vehicle producers in recent years. In 2022, SMM expanded their CAM product portfolio to include LFP and have chosen to collaborate and partner with nano one to accelerate its efforts.
nano one has plans to build its first commercial LFP plant adjacent to its existing production scale pilot facility in Candiac, Québec, and is nearing completion of a Front-End Loading Pre-Feasibility Study ("FEL-2") that will help determine key factors including costs, production line size, total capacity and timing. The Companies believe LFP is an important battery material that will capture a significant portion of the market in the years ahead, and that it can be produced responsibly and cost effectively in North America, Japan, and other jurisdictions using technology and know-how from both organizations.
Katsuya Tanaka, Managing Executive Officer, General Manager of Battery Material Division of SMM stated, "nano one has proven LFP production experience and has demonstrated that their latest technology works at scale, their materials perform, and their costs are competitive. nano one is also aligned with our belief that less waste and energy intensive CAM production technology is one of the most important keys to contribute to developing EV markets. This is particularly important in Japan, North America, and other emerging markets where the race to meet net-zero goals and establish battery supply chains is just beginning. We are excited to be working with nano one."
Strategic Equity Investment
SMM will make a strategic equity investment into nano one for gross proceeds of C$16,879,949.85. On closing, nano one will issue a total of 5,498,355 common shares (the "Shares"), representing approximately 5% of the current issued and outstanding Shares of nano one, at C$3.07 per Share in a non- brokered private placement. nano one intends to use the proceeds principally towards the conversion of its existing Candiac LFP manufacturing facility to a One-Pot production scale pilot plant, nickel- and manganese-rich engineering, and piloting activities, and for working capital purposes.
In connection with the closing of the investment, nano one and SMM will enter into an investor rights agreement, providing SMM with participation rights in any future equity financings to maintain pro rata ownership interest for a period of up to three years from the date of closing. Under the agreement, SMM will agree to a standstill provision that, among other things, restricts SMM's ability to purchase additional shares without nano one consent for a period of 24 months and restricts SMM's ability to sell the Shares for 12 months, subject to certain exemptions.
The Shares will be subject to hold period of four months and a day under applicable Canadian securities law. Closing is subject to certain customary closing conditions, including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "Exchange"). nano one expects closing to occur within 30 days.
Strategic Collaboration Agreement
SMM and nano one will enter into a Collaboration Agreement on closing of the investment that will encompass various aspects primarily centered on supporting the development of battery ecosystems, with a particular focus on LFP and NMC production using the One-Pot process. The collaboration will support technical product optimization for both LFP and NMC, as well as efforts to mitigate supply chain risks. These joint efforts are intended to strengthen and progress the development, design, construction, and operation of nano one's proposed LFP production scale pilot plant, the piloting of nickel- and manganese-rich CAMs, and nano one's first LFP commercial plant.
Further, the Companies will jointly explore business development opportunities, including future sales and technology licensing, forging long term partnerships and identifying potential investment and financing opportunities to expand operations. In the pursuit of these shared business objectives, the Companies intend to exchange relevant market information and technical expertise to improve the quality and cost of CAM produced by the One-Pot process at the Candiac facilities to meet SMM customer requirement.
Being the first CAM producing investor in nano one, SMM has taken a leadership position in seeking to transform the battery materials supply chain for electric vehicle, industrial and renewable energy storage applications. SMM's investment builds on past investments in nano one from mining companies and governments and could accelerate LFP adoption, demand and business opportunities for the Companies. In the future, the Companies intend to evaluate and negotiate a longer-term partnership in the form of a joint-venture and/or a licensing agreement for large scale production of LFP, NMC and other CAM formulations using nano one's One-Pot process in Asia (excluding China) and other global jurisdictions such as Europe, North America and the Indo-Pacific region.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "US Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to US Persons (as defined in the US Securities Act) unless registered under the US Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
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About nano one®
nano one materials corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. nano one's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. nano one aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. nano one has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca
About Sumitomo Metal Mining
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. (SMM) dates back to 16th Century Copper Mining and Processing in Japan. SMM is an integrated producer covering from mineral resources development, smelting & refining, to the production of battery materials and functional materials. By connecting the core businesses, it has advantages in sustainable value chains. SMM has expertise, deep knowledge and many years of experience in producing various types of precursor cathode active material/cathode active material and aims to increase the production capacity of cathode materials (nickel CAM and LFP) from approximately 60,000 tonnes per annum currently to 180,000 tonnes per annum by 2030.
For more information, please visit https://www.smm.co.jp/en/
Company Contact:
Paul Guedes
info@nanoone.ca
(604) 420-2041
Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements
Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to: the closing of the financing and related transaction, the approval by the Exchange for the financing; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of cathode production facilities; successful collaboration with SMM; industry demand; successful current and future collaborations that are/may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the functions and intended benefits of nano one's technology and products; the development of nano one's technology and products; achieving commercial production of LFP and pilot scale production of NMC at the Candiac facility; nano one's licensing, supply chain, joint venture opportunities and potential royalty arrangements; the purpose for expanding the Candiac facilities and scalability of developed technology; and the execution of nano one's plans - which are contingent on support and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', ‘target', ‘goal', ‘encouraged', ‘projected', ‘potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of nano one to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of nano one's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction and operation of the Candiac facility; industry demand; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of nano one's plans which are contingent on support and grants; nano one's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of nano one's technology and patents via license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in nano one's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for nano one which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of nano one has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. nano one does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
SOURCE: nano one materials corp.
View source version on accesswire.com:
https://www.accesswire.com/786984/nano-one-announces-collaboration-agreement-with-sumitomo-metal-mining-and-a-c169-million-strategic-investment
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LFP from Nano One's Commercial Size Reactors Lead to Fast-tracking Customer Samples
TSX:NANO)(OTC PINK:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB
Highlights:
- Commencing shipment of samples for partners to validate tonne scale LFP in Q4.
- Repeated One-Pot LFP trials demonstrates technology at commercial size reactors.
- Accelerated retrofit of Candiac for continuous production of LFP.
- 200 tpa reactors installed and optimization underway.
- Building pipeline of potential customers for LFP product orders.
Nano One® Materials Corp. ("Nano One" or the "Company") is a clean technology company with patented processes for the production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials that enable secure and resilient supply chains by driving down cost, complexity, energy intensity, and environmental footprint. The Company is pleased to report that One-Pot trials over the past few months in the existing reactors at the Candiac plant have produced lithium iron phosphate (LFP) at commercial scale with performance results consistent to lab scale. nano one has leapfrogged to full commercial size reactors and its LFP can be shipped to select customers in Q4 for evaluation. Additionally, the 200 tonne per annum (tpa) reactors have been installed and optimization is underway for scale-up.
"We are ready to send qualified LFP materials to our partners for evaluation at tonne scale from our commercial scale reactors." said nano one's Chief Commercialization Officer Mr. Denis Geoffroy, "These reactors performing are an important milestone in our commercialization strategy, to provide tonne scale samples to strategic partners and boost the confidence in our technology's scalability. I am very proud of our team who achieved these results in a very short timeframe."
2,000 tpa Commercial Reactors [existing]:
nano one has continued to optimize trials in the existing commercial scale reactors, reproducing lab and development results. This demonstrates the One-Pot process can scale to commercial volumes and advances the de-risking of the technology at commercial scale. This rapid advancement allows commercial scale LFP samples to be sent to qualified customers, ahead of schedule, for thorough evaluation and validation for the purposes of entering binding offtake agreements for both the existing Candiac plant and the first full commercial line to be built next door. Optimization will continue and the results have helped identify key processing parameters and will expedite the commercial scale-up process.
Successful repeatable LFP trials in the existing commercial scale reactors will lead to an accelerated refurbishment of the plant to automatize the use of the existing reactors for the One-Pot process. This will enable continuous production capabilities up to 2,000 tpa level toward the end of 2024.
200 tpa Pilot Reactors [new]:
In parallel, the team has continued to work on the reception, installation, and commissioning of the 200 tpa One-Pot reactors. These reactors will provide important information to improve the processes and support validation in a cost-effective manner as the Company continues to innovate. They also allow nano one to have a baseline automated production capacity of 200 tpa, ready to deliver to customers once they have validated the product.
"The experience of our team has been invaluable in achieving these important milestones." said Alex Holmes, COO, "Working concurrently with both the 200 tpa reactors and existing commercial scale reactors has fast tracked our commercialization efforts. We are setting the foundation for growth that can secure market share and enhance shareholder value. This couldn't have been achieved without the unwavering dedication of our team and showcases the amazing talent we have at nano one."
"Being ahead of schedule and producing high-quality LFP cathode material is what we needed to fast-track nano one's progression to profitability." said Andrew Muckstadt, VP Business Development, "While attending The Battery Show in Novi Michigan this week, we are able to talk to select customers about taking orders and potentially supplying them with LFP for their business plans in the future. As major players are still determining their supply chain and partners, we are demonstrating we have a viable product that can be produced in North America and replicated around the world."
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About nano one®
nano one materials corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. nano one's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. The Company aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. nano one has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca
Company Contact:
Paul Guedes
info@nanoone.ca
(604) 420-2041
Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements
Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes but is not limited to: the Company's future business and strategies; industry demand; incurrence of costs; competitive conditions; general economic conditions; the intention to grow the business, operations, revenues and potential activities of the Company; the functions and intended benefits of nano one's technology and products; the development of the Company's technology, supply chains and products; results of trials and optimization for scale up to commercial production;current and future collaboration engineering, and optimization research projects; plans for construction, scale-up and operation of a multi cathode piloting hub; the successful and timely commencement of a commercialization phase; successful validation of LFP products; prospective partnerships with customers and the anticipated benefits of the Company's partnerships; the purpose for expanding its facilities; and the acceleration and execution of the Company's plans - which are contingent on support and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', ‘target', ‘goal', ‘potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of the Company's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction, scale-up, and operation of cathode production facilities; achievement of industrial scale piloting, demo commercial production and potential revenues; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of the Company's plans which are contingent on support and grants; the Company's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of the Company's technology and patents via license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in nano one's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for the Company which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
SOURCE: nano one materials corp.
View source version on accesswire.com:
https://www.accesswire.com/783883/lfp-from-nano-ones-commercial-size-reactors-lead-to-fast-tracking-customer-samples
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Cleantech Market Update: Q1 2024 in Review
“In Q1 of 2024 we saw more of the ‘new normal’ in venture and growth investing — following the explosive years of financing during the pandemic, equity financing levels have essentially leveled out, but have settled at average levels higher than the averages pre-pandemic,” said Anthony DeOrsey, research team lead at Cleantech Group.
He told the Investing News Network (INN) that the period brought investment growth in hard-to-abate sectors such as green steel and cement, and said Q1 was a successful venture quarter in hydrogen production technologies. Additionally, the year's first quarter was marked by decreased levels of investment activity in the Asia Pacific region compared to 2023, when China was the biggest market for cleantech spending, as well as growth in the European market.
At a global level, the discussions and agreements at COP28 late last year highlighted the importance of addressing climate change through a swift and just transition to renewable, sustainable energy sources. This urgency provided a backdrop for evaluating the performance of the cleantech industry in 2024's first quarter.
What trends impacted cleantech in Q1?
US supports cleantech sector with funds and policies
Government investment is key for the cleantech industry to thrive and innovate, and in February, the US Department of Energy announced it would invest US$100 million to support pilot projects and testing facilities focused on carbon dioxide (CO2) removal technologies. This funding is part of the Carbon Negative Shot Initiative, which aims to reduce the cost of capturing and storing CO2 from the atmosphere to less than US$100 per net metric ton by 2032.
The Biden administration also demonstrated its commitment to addressing climate change by allocating US$6 billion to fund 33 projects focused on decarbonizing energy-intensive industries, such as aluminum and other metals mining, cement and concrete production and iron and steel operations. The project is part of the government's Investing in American Agenda, with funding coming from the Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act.
According to a March press release, these efforts are expected to reduce the equivalent of over 14 million metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, comparable to the emissions of 3 million gasoline-powered cars.
Also in March, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a new rule to limit tailpipe emissions on light-duty and medium-duty vehicles starting in 2027. This rule, which the Biden administration has called the “strongest ever” of its kind, is part of the Investing in America Agenda and is funded by the Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.
Steel and cement industries getting greener
Cement and steel are two of the most-produced materials globally, and are among the world's top sources of CO2 emissions. Now, however, efforts are being made to make these markets greener.
“These traditionally hard-to-abate sectors now have enough of a slate of innovative solutions to start charting a path forward to decarbonization,” DeOrsey said about these industries.
“We are now at an interesting stage in which there are new green steel and cement production technologies that are entering the market (mostly through demonstration plants, but some at commercial scale) — a first 'tranche' of technologies is emerging while the more nascent technologies are seeing more venture support.”
Cleantech Group's take on the “tranches” of green steel and green cement development.
Chart via Cleantech Group.
For example, Brimstone received a US$189 million federal investment to build a new plant to deploy its decarbonized process for producing cement, and Sublime Systems was selected to receive US$87 million to accelerate the construction of a cement factory in Massachusetts. It will reduce carbon emissions by replacing limestone with calcium silicate, thereby producing industry-standard cement with electrochemical reactions instead of applying heat.
DeOrsey also mentioned Skyven Technologies, a California-based startup company that has received US$145 million to deploy steam-generating wind pumps to manufacturing facilities worldwide.
Overseas, H2 Green Steel and Boston Metal have recently made significant advancements in this area. Stockholm-based H2 Green Steel secured 6.5 billion euros to build the world’s first large-scale green steel plant in Europe, with contributions from institutional investors such as the Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, Mubea and Siemens Financial Services, along with a 250 million euro grant from the EU Innovation Fund. Meanwhile, Boston Metal raised US$20 million in Series C2 funding from Marunouchi Innovation Partners, bringing the total to US$282 million, to expand its presence in Asia and further develop its platform for decarbonized steelmaking using molten oxide electrolysis.
EV market faces challenges and opportunities
The first quarter of 2024 saw notable developments in the electric vehicle (EV) industry unfold.
Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA), facing backlash from investors after reporting Q1 sales figures that were 8.5 percent lower than the previous year, opened its North American Superchargers to Ford (NYSE:F) EVs. To improve profit margins, Tesla also chose to raise the price of its Model Y EVs by 2,000 euros in Europe and by US$1,000 in the US.
In China, EV sales growth has slowed in recent months. However, in March, Chinese EV manufacturer BYD (HKEX:1211) debuted an affordable EV model priced below US$10,000. It is currently not sold in the US, but reportedly has attracted attention from American carmakers. BYD has set an ambitious target to increase its annual sales by 20 percent, aiming to sell 3.6 million units in 2024. The company is aiming for half a million of those sales to be overseas.
Meanwhile, Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL), made progress in the autonomous vehicle sector by securing approval to operate its self-driving cars at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour on highways and local streets in specific areas of Los Angeles and the Bay Area. For its part, newcomer Fisker (OTC Pink:FSRN), which launched its first EV in 2023, has encountered substantial difficulties, as demonstrated by the company’s decision to reduce the price of its Ocean SUV by 39 percent. The company was also forced to halt production, is facing a potential bankruptcy and was delisted from the New York Stock Exchange on April 22. These developments highlight the varied experiences and challenges faced by different players in the evolving EV and autonomous vehicle markets.
“An interesting pull-through effect of global EV rollout has been the opportunities it is creating for innovation and growth of new technologies in EV charging — Europe has seen consistent venture activity in this regard over the past few years,” said DeOrsey about trends he's noted in this part of the cleantech sector.
What factors will move the cleantech market in 2024?
Enhanced geothermal gaining steam
As the year continues, where should cleantech investors direct their attention?
“A space to watch is enhanced geothermal,” said DeOrsey. “Despite having significant potential to provide 24/7 firm clean power, challenging project economics have remained a barrier. New technologies in drilling and closed-loop systems have shown promise to better access the latent power potential in hot, dry rock geothermal deposits.”
Recent developments in this space include a US$17 million Series A funding round led by Chesapeake Energy (NASDAQ:CHK) to develop EarthStore, Sage Geosystems’ first commercial geopressured geothermal systems facility, in Houston in Q4 of this year. Also, geothermal energy startup Fervo Energy raised US$244 million in February to further operations at a project in Utah that is aiming to bring 400 megawatts of clean electricity to the grid by 2026.
Quaise Energy, identified by DeOrsey as another geothermal energy company to watch, raised US$21 million in a Series A1 funding round, with new investors Mitsubishi (TSE:8058) and Standard Investments joining Prelude Ventures and Safar Partners. Quaise is developing terawatt-scale geothermal energy by vaporizing rock with MIT-researched techniques that use millimeter-wave microwaves to dig deep geothermal wells.
Other cleantech developments to watch
As the EV market evolves, Tesla is facing a potentially difficult year, with analysts anticipating decreased sales. However, the success of emerging competitors like Xiaomi (HKEX:1810), whose debut of the SU7 model resulted in a 16 percent surge in share value, demonstrates that the EV landscape remains dynamic.
“The subsidies to Chinese EV manufacturers are very significant and (have) allowed for a rapid scaling of EV production and sales, both within China and Chinese-produced vehicles for export,” DeOrsey told INN.
“There is already a high 27.5 percent import tariff on Chinese-built vehicles in the US,” he continued. “The onus will now be on US manufacturers to slash costs through learning effects and use of technology."
In DeOrsey's view, western EV producers should look to leverage new technology in order to reduce expenses. While there are many variables at play, Cleantech Group sees innovation reducing cathode costs for batteries.
He is monitoring Ascend Elements’ US$162 million funding round, which will go toward the construction of North America’s first sustainable cathode precursor manufacturing facility, set to open in early 2025.
Aside from that, a recent partnership between Canada’s Heliene and Georgia-based Suniva marks an important development for US solar project developers, as it enables them to take advantage of a new federal subsidy offered under the Inflation Reduction Act. By joining forces, Heliene and Suniva will produce "Made in USA" solar panels, incorporating Suniva's US-made solar cells into Heliene's US-made solar modules.
Finally, if GE Verona (NYSE:GEV), a spinoff of General Electric (NYSE:GE) that encompasses GE Renewable Energy, GE Power and GE Digital, continues to demonstrate a strong performance on the New York Stock Exchange, it could serve as an indicator of investor confidence in the renewable energy and power sectors.
Investor takeaway
As the world increasingly embraces cleantech, investors can strategically allocate their resources by staying informed on recent and emerging trends, policies and partnerships that are shaping the renewable energy landscape.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Technology or real time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.
Frontier Shortlists Preferred Banks as Waroona Debt Financing Process Moves into Phase Two
HIGHLIGHTS
- Frontier has commenced Phase Two of the debt financing process, shortlisting preferred banks ahead of additional due diligence to enable submission of binding, credit approved terms
- The Company anticipates credit approved terms to be provided during the next 8 to 12 weeks, assuming successful completion of due diligence
- Phase One of the Debt Financing Process generated strong interest from Australian and international banks, confirming:
- Interest in providing senior debt financing which aligns with the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) assumptions1
- Acceptance of the selected original equipment manufacturers
- Key due diligence requirements and the proposed third-party service providers to undertake the work to meet those requirements
- Ability of potential financiers to meet the proposed timetable
- The DFS set out the maximum debt carrying capacity and included assumptions regarding amortisation periods and interest rates
- Targeted maximum debt carrying capacity in the DFS was between 65% to 70%, which equates to a debt facility of $200 million to $225 million
- The strategic equity investor process is ongoing, with NDAs in place with a number of Australian and international groups
CEO Adam Kiley commented: “Key to the initial phase of the debt financing process was confirmation of our major funding assumptions, which assumed gearing levels of between 65% to 70%, equating to between $200 million and $225 million, equipment selection, due diligence requirements and the funding timetable.
Confirmation of these key assumptions in such a short time frame is testament to the key attributes of the Waroona Project being well understood by financiers, predominately due to its simplicity and its executability as well the strong returns it delivers.
We have now moved into the second phase of the debt financing process and will be working closely with shortlisted banks towards credit approved terms and complete due diligence requirements in a timely manner.”
Shortlisting banks for debt financing
Following the release of the DFS for Stage One of the Waroona Project in late February, the Company commenced the Debt Financing Process to assist in meeting the funding required for development at the Waroona Project. Image 1 below provides an outline of the key outcomes and indicative timing for each phase of the process.
Image 1: Waroona Project – Debt Financing Process and indicative timing
As highlighted above, Phase One of the Debt Financing Process involved the Company’s debt advisor, Leeuwin Capital Partners, seeking expressions of interest from financial institutions to participate in the Debt Process.
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from Frontier Energy, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.