Ronbay and Rock Tech partner to localize battery material supply in Europe, supporting EV growth and clean energy transition goals.
Ronbay Technology Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese producer of cathode active materials (CAM), and Rock Tech Lithium Inc., a German-Canadian cleantech company focused on lithium refining, have entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to create a fully localized and integrated supply chain for lithium-ion battery materials within Europe, strengthening the region’s battery ecosystem amid its green energy transition.
At the heart of this collaboration is the long-term supply agreement under which Rock Tech will provide battery-grade lithium hydroxide from its Guben converter facility in Germany to Ronbay’s cathode manufacturing base in Europe, particularly its new site in Konin, Poland. Ronbay has committed to supporting Rock Tech’s development by offering technical expertise and potentially investing in the ongoing progress of the Guben converter, located near the German-Polish border.
This partnership forms a vital link in Europe’s battery production chain, especially as the continent moves toward sustainable energy storage and widespread electric mobility. Ronbay brings substantial capabilities to the collaboration, with a diversified product portfolio that includes high-performance cathode materials for both lithium and sodium-ion batteries, such as high-nickel ternary CAMs and lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP).
As part of its global expansion strategy, Ronbay recently acquired a former Johnson Matthey CAM facility in Konin. The site includes completed factory and lab buildings and has secured necessary environmental clearances. The first phase of its 25,000-ton mid- and high-nickel ternary CAM production project is progressing steadily, with equipment installation set to finish in 2025 and full-scale commercial production targeted for 2026.
By producing cathode materials locally, Ronbay aims to enhance its European supply capabilities, expand its international customer base, and ensure faster delivery to regional clients. This strategic collaboration will not only accelerate the execution of both companies’ projects but also foster stronger integration of the European battery value chain.
Ronbay will further assist Rock Tech by connecting it with experienced construction and engineering partners to aid the build-out of the Guben facility. The two firms will also work together on marketing and customer acquisition, focusing on meeting demand in the EV and battery storage sectors.
According to Mirco Wojnarowicz, CEO of Rock Tech Lithium, this collaboration represents a shared vision of creating a resilient European battery materials supply network. The MoU sets the foundation for future legally binding agreements, emphasizing mutual technological support and a joint commitment to a sustainable energy future.
