Are China's battery exports a threat to US security?

A look at China’s battery exports, and its associated battery complex, reveals both opportunities and risks for US and allied comprehensive security interests. Sign up for PowerPlay, the Atlantic Council’s bimonthly newsletter keeping you up to date on all facets of the energy transition.

How does the Department of state support a battery supply chain?

through the American Battery Materials Initiative and other forums.The Department of State is leading international engagement and coalition-building with likeminded nations through forums like the Minerals Security Partnership,114 deepening relationships and helping to mobilize investment to diversify and secure supply chains

Why are lithium ion batteries difficult to source in North America?

Battery cells, especially Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) — the best Li-ion chemistry for safety and reliability, are difficult to source in North America due to China’s decade-long head start in building out its battery manufacturing base.

Do China import Li-ion storage batteries?

China exported $10.8 billion of Li-ion storage batteries to the United States in 2023, accounting for 72 percent of all US imports of the product. Chinese imports are particularly important in the storage market. These li-ion storage batteries are useful for decarbonizing the US power sector and complementing solar generation.

Are lithium-ion batteries a good investment?

On one hand, lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries, including those made in China, the world’s largest li-ion manufacturer, are useful for decarbonizing the US grid, improving the economics of solar deployment, and providing a key input for electric vehicles.

How many terawatt-hours of energy storage will be installed by 2030?

Estimates expect that by 2030, over 1 terawatt-hour of global energy storage capacity will be installed — a more than tenfold increase over 2020.