LG Energy Solution Joins Global Automotive Software Marketplace SDVerse as First Battery Maker

SK On will transition to a unified production system centered on its SK Battery America (SKBA) operations in Georgia to improve efficiency in North America. According to the company on the 3rd, starting April 6 (local time), production volumes from SKBA’s first plant will be transferred to the second plant. In addition, part of the second plant’s production lines will be converted from electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing to energy storage system (ESS) production. The Georgia Plant 1 has an annual capacity of 10GWh and began commercial operations in the first quarter of 2022, while Plant 2 has a capacity of 12GWh and started operations in the fourth quarter of 2022.

According to Westwater Resources on the 3rd, it received a contract termination notice from SK On on March 31 (local time). Under the agreement, SK On had planned to source up to 34,000 tons of natural graphite produced at Westwater’s Kellyton facility in Alabama between 2027 and 2031, but the plan has been canceled following the termination.

According to data from the CPCA, lithium battery exports reached 926,000 mt in January-February 2026, up 63%, while export value rose 43% to $14.2 billion. The export price of lithium-ion batteries fell from $27,300/mt in 2023 and $20,100/mt in 2024 to $15,700/mt, and further to $15,300/mt in 2026. The average price in 2026 declined only 10% YoY, a marked improvement from the 26% drop in 2024 and the 22% drop in 2025.