LG Energy Solution begins production at new battery plant
The largest battery manufacturer in North America is adding to its production capacity even further, as LG Energy Solution began production at its new facility in Lansing, Michigan Aug. 18.
Manufacturing both EV batteries and large-format systems for energy storage projects, the new facility “will play a key role in broadening Michigan’s manufacturing base,” according to representatives. The plant is aiming for more than 35 GWh of annual battery production capacity once at full-scale production.
More specifically, the plant will manufacture lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells for energy storage systems, the company says. With cells integrated by LG Energy Solution Vertech, the complete systems will go toward utility, grid-scale energy storage, as well as other commercial and industrial markets.
David Kim, CEO of LG Energy Solution, says the plant’s opening is “a defining milestone” for the firm.
“Lansing will produce advanced batteries that support not only the future of mobility, but also America’s growing energy infrastructure and digital economy,” he says. “We are strengthening America’s battery ecosystem, expanding our manufacturing footprint and reaffirming our long-term commitment to the United States.”
In addition to large-scale battery systems, the new plant will produce nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells for Toyota. The company says the new cells will power a bevy of the auto giant’s EV models, with the process entirely manufactured on U.S. soil between LG and Toyota’s efforts.
“Domestic battery production is foundational to America’s energy future – reducing dependence on foreign adversaries, driving good-paying American jobs and advancing the American Energy Dominance Agenda,” says U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, who attended the plant’s grand opening ceremony.
“Michigan is uniquely positioned to help lead this effort with its skilled workforce, manufacturing expertise and the industrial capabilities needed to strengthen America’s domestic battery supply chain.”
Committing to the Mitten
LG Energy Solution has invested more than $2 billion into the Lansing facility since 2022. Now employing 900 team members, and with plans to nearly double that number in the coming years, the company is fully committing to Michigan, company representatives say.
“The state’s skilled workforce is a great fit for our high impact industry, and we expect to continue our partnership with Michigan well into the 21st century,” says Dae-sik Choi, president of LG Energy Solution Michigan. “The jobs at this facility pay well, offer great benefits and require creativity and problem solving at all levels.
“Unlike many other high-tech industries, battery making creates jobs for everyone, from hourly workers to advanced degree holders.”
The facility’s opening also marks LG Energy Solution’s second plant in the state, according to the company. The South Korean company has invested north of $5 billion total in the Great Lakes State since 2010, and expects to be a top 50 employer across the state by the end of 2026.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says the state hopes to keep working with LG not only to bolster its economy, but create opportunities in the American energy sector as a whole.
“Michigan is open for business and creating good-paying jobs building the future of cars, chips, and batteries,” she says. “LG Energy Solution has called Michigan home for more than 20 years, and we’re proud to see that investment continue with the start of production at its Lansing facility. This project will create up to 1,700 good-paying jobs, helping more working families make it in Michigan. It’s part of our historic work to invest in clean energy, electric vehicle manufacturing, and battery storage in communities across Michigan.”
