Clarios, an automotive battery manufacturer owned by investment firm Brookfield, is evaluating sites in Indiana, Texas, and Utah for a proposed critical minerals processing and recovery plant worth up to $1 billion, the company said on Tuesday.
The project, supported by recent U.S. executive orders and federal advanced manufacturing tax credits, aims to bolster the domestic supply of critical minerals essential to both national security and advanced technologies. “We’re excited to announce the next step in our strategy to increase our investment in the United States,” said Clarios CEO Mark Wallace in a statement.
The proposed facility will focus on recovering antimony and other critical minerals from recycled materials. Antimony is considered a strategic resource due to its use in ammunition, infrared sensors, night vision goggles, and precision optics. Its supply has come under pressure following China’s decision in September to impose export controls on antimony and other elements, which has driven up global prices.
“The administration has emphasized the importance of these minerals for national security and economic growth,” Clarios said. “By investing in critical mineral processing and recovery, Clarios is supporting these national security priorities and contributing to the resilience of the U.S. supply chain.”
The company, which withdrew its initial public offering plans in January, has completed initial site assessments and is now in discussions with officials in the three states under consideration.
Source: Reuters