DR Congo all in one battery storage

Can the Democratic Republic of the Congo produce lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials?

London and Kinshasa, November 24, 2021 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) can leverage its abundant cobalt resources and hydroelectric power to become a low-cost and low-emissions producer of lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials.

How many people in Congo have a lack of electricity?

This translates to about 41% in urban areas and 1% in rural areas. According to the International Trade Administration, lack of access to modern electricity services impairs the health, education and income-generating potential of millions of Congolese people.

How much would a DRC plant cost?

This is three times cheaper than what a similar plant in the U.S. would cost. A similar plant in China and Poland would cost an estimated $112 million and $65 million, respectively. Precursor material produced at plants in the DRC could be cost competitive with material produced in China and Poland but with a lower environmental footprint.

How can Africa extend its access to the battery industry?

In so doing, the country and the rest of Africa can extend their access from the USD271 billion battery precursor segment to the more lucrative USD1.4 trillion combined battery cell production and cell assembly segments of the battery minerals global value chain.

Is Africa a good place to buy a battery?

Africa has a wealth of critical battery raw materials and is in a position to use these to attract more value-add in downstream processing and manufacturing.”

Why do Congolese people need electricity?

According to the International Trade Administration, lack of access to modern electricity services impairs the health, education and income-generating potential of millions of Congolese people. “Most power generation development is directed and funded by mining companies seeking to power their facilities.”