Blue Whale Materials (BWM) is in negotiations with the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) to receive $55 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Battery Materials Processing and Battery Manufacturing Program. The company, which specializes in lithium-ion battery recycling and is a portfolio company of Ara Partners, plans to use the money to aid its expansion plans for its facility in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. BWM will invest $110 million into the project, allowing the plant to process up to 50,000 tons of battery feedstock annually and produce enough valuable critical minerals to power over 100,000 electric vehicles annually. According to the company, by expanding operations, BWM will be able to convert 3.5 times more end-of-life batteries and production scrap into Blacksand, a high-purity, dry, mixed-metal precursor that stands apart from conventional black mass. The project is expected to generate 150 new jobs for the surrounding area.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, BWM CEO Robert Kang said, “The DOE’s backing underscores the importance of building a sustainable and resilient supply chain for critical minerals right here in the U.S.. This expansion not only supports our mission but also fuels economic growth in Bartlesville, a historic energy community.”
Reese Goldsmith, Head of Government Affairs for Ara Partners, added, “This selection for award by DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains is further validation of BWM’s pioneering battery recycling process, and Ara Partners is proud to have partnered with Blue Whale Materials to submit the proposal for award. Government partnerships are essential to decarbonize the industrial economy and increase U.S. manufacturing capabilities.”
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