CATL partners with Alfen on European sodium-ion energy storage

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL has signed a memorandum of understanding with European energy system integrator Alfen N.V. The companies plan to begin deploying 5 GWh of sodium-ion energy storage systems, based on CATL's NATRION technology, in Western European countries, including the Netherlands, from 2027.

The system, known as CATL TENER Sodium, is reportedly designed with a 25-year lifespan and improves the overall system round-trip efficiency (RTE) by nearly 2%, leading to lower lifecycle costs. It is also compatible with lithium iron phosphate systems, offering Alfen flexibility in battery material choices and mitigating risks from lithium price fluctuations.

This collaboration marks the first major deployment of the NATRION sodium-ion energy storage system in the European market. The initiative aims to gather local operational experience with European grid standards and accelerate the adoption of sodium-ion storage technology across the continent.

CATL globally launched its TENER Sodium solution in June. The system is described as flexible and stable, capable of operating in a wide temperature range of -20 to 45 degrees Celsius. CATL previously announced that initial domestic deliveries in China would commence in September, with global commercial delivery set for June 2025.