WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy has selected seven projects for $500 million in funding to expand domestic critical-mineral processing, battery manufacturing and recycling, targeting supply chain vulnerabilities affecting American industry, energy production and national security.
The investments represent the third funding round under the department’s Battery Materials Processing and Battery Manufacturing and Recycling programs.
The programs support demonstration projects, construction of commercial-scale facilities and the retrofitting or retooling of existing operations.
The funding is intended to increase the amount of critical minerals and battery materials processed, manufactured and recycled within the United States, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
“For too long, America has depended on foreign actors for critical materials essential to modern life that underpin our economy, energy security, and national security,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated.
Assistant Energy Secretary Audrey Robertson indicated that the selected projects are intended to strengthen access to materials needed across the nation’s energy supply chain.
The initiative aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive order titled “Unleashing American Energy,” according to the department.
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