Plans to deploy 5GWh of sodium ion BESS systems in Europe have been unveiled by Chinese battery major CATL and Netherlands-based energy infrastructure specialist Alfen.

The companies said on July 16 the move marked the next step forward in a long-standing partnership that includes a battery supply deal agreed in 2023.

Initially focused on lithium ion energy storage projects, the supply partnership was extended in 2024 to support Alfen’s growing demand for ESS developments in Europe. 

CATL said the joint deployment of sodium ion projects will allow it to gain experience in European grid applications for sodium batteries, optimising products for adaptation to European grid codes and accelerating the battery maker’s push to deploy its technology globally.

The partners did not give costings or timelines for their plans, but Tan Libin, CATL chief customer officer and co-president of sales and marketing, said the initiative establishes forward-looking cooperation on next-generation, low-cost energy storage solutions, and the opening of new business opportunities beyond traditional lithium ion battery storage supply.

Alfen CEO Michael Colijn 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.”

Alfen, founded in 1937, has expanded from a focus on manufacturing switchgear and supplying secondary transformer substations to Dutch grid operators to embracing ESS and EV charging equipment in addition to smart grid tech.

Last February, CATL and Chinese auto firm Changan unveiled what they said is the first mass-production car equipped with sodium ion batteries.