Altech Secures €46M German Grant and Moves Battery R&D to Germany

Major German Government Grant De-Risks CERENERGY® Battery Project

Altech Batteries (ASX:ATC) has secured conditional binding funding approval for €46.11 million under Germany’s federal STARK program to support its CERENERGY® Sodium-Chloride Solid-State battery manufacturing facility planned in Saxony. This grant, covering roughly 30% of eligible capital expenditure, marks a significant de-risking milestone for the 120 MWh project, which aims to provide a lithium-free, safer alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

The STARK program, backed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy alongside the EU, targets sustainable industrial transformation in regions undergoing structural change. The funding approval is contingent on Altech achieving full financial close by 30 June 2026 and parliamentary approval of the 2026 federal budget, adding an execution hurdle ahead. CEO Daniel Raihani highlighted the grant as a strong endorsement of CERENERGY®’s strategic importance in Europe’s energy storage landscape, reflecting technical progress made with Fraunhofer IKTS, a key research partner.

Silumina AnodesTM R&D Transitions to Germany with New CTO

In a strategic pivot aimed at operational and cost efficiencies, Altech has relocated its Silumina AnodesTM battery materials R&D laboratory from Perth to Saxony, Germany, colocating it with the pilot plant. This move is expected to streamline testwork and pilot operations, accelerating the path to commercialisation of its silicon-enhanced lithium-ion battery anodes, which promise 30% higher energy density and improved cycle life.

To lead this effort, Altech appointed Dr Luise Bloi as Chief Technology Officer. Dr Bloi brings a PhD focused on carbon-based anodes for solid-state batteries and experience from Skeleton Technologies, ACC Automotive Cells Company, and Fraunhofer Institute, strengthening Altech’s technical leadership in Europe. The company has also signed non-disclosure agreements with leading German and US automakers for commercial sample testing, signalling growing interest in Silumina AnodesTM technology.

Asset Rationalisation and Financial Position

Altech surrendered its non-core Kerrigan Exploration License 70/4718 held in Western Australia, a move anticipated to reduce operating costs and sharpen focus on core battery projects. The company reported a cash balance of A$1.38 million at the end of March 2026, with operating cash outflows continuing amid ongoing development activities.

The company’s quarterly cash flow report revealed net operating cash outflows of A$926,000 and investing outflows of A$35,000, partially offset by financing inflows of A$102,000. Altech continues to pursue strategic partnerships and capital raising to secure the additional funding required to reach financial close for the CERENERGY® project and advance Silumina AnodesTM commercialisation. The board remains focused on attracting partners who can contribute capital, technical expertise, and market access.

These developments build on Altech’s recent technical and corporate momentum, including the breakthrough in Silumina AnodesTM battery technology and a $6 million capital raise earlier this year, which accompanied a board renewal aimed at fast-tracking commercialisation and operational focus. The relocation of R&D and appointment of a German-based CTO further embed Altech’s commitment to establishing a European battery manufacturing footprint, aligning with regional industrial policy and market demand for sustainable energy storage solutions.