Altech Batteries Ltd (ASX:ATC, OTC:ALTHF) has secured preliminary approval for a €46.7 million (AU$83.45M) grant to support its CERENERGY® sodium-chloride solid-state battery project in Saxony, Germany. The funding is part of Germany’s STARK program, which aims to assist coal regions in transitioning towards more sustainable and diversified energy industries.
The approval represents 30% of the project’s capital expenditure, excluding working capital, financing costs and interest during construction. While a significant milestone, the approval remains conditional on overall financial close and the release of funds through the German parliament’s 2026 federal budget.
About the STARK program
The STARK program (Stärkung der Transformationsdynamik und Aufbruch in den Revieren und an den Kohlekraftwerkstandorten) is a Federal Government initiative, co-supported by the European Union, designed to facilitate the transformation of regions historically dependent on coal. It promotes projects that deliver ecological, economic and social sustainability while supporting clean energy innovation.
Altech’s project site is strategically located in these transition areas, making it well positioned to access grant funding not only through the German government but also from the states of Saxony and Brandenburg and EU innovation programs.
Recognition for CERENERGY® technology
The CERENERGY® project, developed in collaboration with Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, represents a new generation of sodium-chloride solid-state batteries. These batteries are designed to provide safe, durable and sustainable energy storage solutions without relying on critical raw materials such as lithium.
Altech said the written confirmation under the STARK program is an important signal of support from the German government and EU bodies, reflecting both confidence in the technology and its potential contribution to Europe’s energy transition.
Broader funding strategy
In parallel with the STARK grant, Altech has actively pursued funding opportunities from multiple government levels and European programs. Saxony and Brandenburg, in particular, have provided strong support for renewable energy projects, recognising the importance of clean energy technologies in regional economic transformation.
By securing preliminary grant approval, Altech is advancing towards the financial close of its CERENERGY® project, which is expected to play a strategic role in Europe’s push to diversify energy storage solutions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.