CATL Secures 5 GWh Sodium Ion Battery Deal With Alfen
CATL and European energy provider Alfen signed a strategic deal to deploy 5 GWh of sodium-ion energy storage systems across Europe starting in 2027.
CATL sodium ion battery storage system for European energy grid
Expanding the Battery Partnership
The two companies started working together in 2023 to secure energy infrastructure. Their initial projects focused entirely on traditional lithium-ion battery supplies. This new agreement marks a major shift toward alternative chemical compositions.
Alfen wants to diversify its raw material portfolio through this deal. The transition helps the company protect itself against volatile lithium price fluctuations. It also creates a more resilient supply chain for future projects.
The New Sodium System
CATL officially launched its Tener Sodium Energy Storage system in Munich on June 22, 2026. Engineers designed the technology to provide grid stability and long-term cost efficiency. The system targets utility-scale projects that need reliable operations.
Alfen executive Michael Colijn expressed high expectations for the technology. He said, "Sodium-ion is the next step in how we think about Energy Storage – more diversified, resilient, and built for where the market is heading." The provider expects these systems to improve overall grid performance.
Benefits For European Energy
Sodium-ion batteries offer significant environmental and safety advantages over older designs. They operate reliably across a wide range of temperatures and present lower fire risks. This makes them highly suitable for the European climate.
CATL executive Tan Libin emphasized the strategic value of the partnership. He stated, "With their superior safety performance and lifecycle sustainability advantages, sodium-ion batteries will deliver unique value to European customers." The Chinese manufacturer hopes to accelerate Europe's Green Energy transition.
