European Chemical Industry News & Insights

ACC Opens First Gigafactory in France

At a glance
  • The Gigafactory represents an investment of 850 million euros.
  • The first production unit will be operational by end of 2023, with full ramp-up by end of 2024.
  • The site will create around 2,000 direct jobs by 2030.
  • ACC sources cobalt, lithium, copper, and nickel from environmentally and ethically responsible suppliers.

Investment and Timeline

The Gigafactory in Billy-Berclau/Douvrin, France, represents an investment of 850 million euros. The first of the site's three production units will be operational by the end of 2023, with full ramp-up scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.

Production Capacity and Workforce

The factory includes over 60,000 m2 of workshops and an initial production line with a capacity of more than 13 GWh, rising to 40 GWh by 2030. The site will create around 2,000 direct jobs by 2030, contributing to the growth of the Hauts-de-France region.

Environmental Standards

The Gigafactory benefits from the latest safety and environmental management standards, with industrial water consumption 5 to 10 times lower than that of a standard car manufacturing plant and a recycling rate of 90% for its waste. The site is classified SEVESO, ensuring high levels of safety and prevention.

Responsible Sourcing

ACC is committed to sourcing strategic materials such as cobalt, lithium, copper, and nickel from suppliers who respect environmental and human rights standards. The company also actively contributes to the development of the battery recycling industry.

Future Expansion

ACC plans to implement two additional gigafactories in Kaiserslautern, Germany, by 2025 and Termoli, Italy, by 2026. This will bring ACC's total industrial capacity to 120 GWh by 2030.