Enzinc, a developer in the growing field of zinc battery tech, was awarded the Coup de Coeur prize in the World Materials Forum (WMF) Start Up Challenge for how it uses this common material in energy storage.
The ninth WMF, held in Nancy, France, last week, brings together industry leaders, experts and innovators from around the world. Enzinc is based in California and has already received awards from ARPA-E and the California Energy Commission and raised a $4.5 million seed round in 2022.
“We are incredibly honored to receive the Coup de Coeur Start Up Award, a resounding validation of our groundbreaking technology and the unwavering dedication of our team towards fostering innovation,” said Michael Burz, Enzinc founder and CEO.
The demand for high-power batteries is substantial, but the industry’s growth is hindered by materials shortages. Enzinc says it enables established lead-acid battery manufacturers to “triple their output and substantially improve their margins.” The Enzinc approach offers twice the energy density of any other zinc battery. It excels in both mobility and stationary applications.
“Enzinc is at the forefront of material innovation, and our drop-in zinc microsponge anode is transforming the battery industry,” Burz says. “With Enzinc inside, users can sustainably power anything from short and mid-range electric vehicles to stationary storage systems. Our proprietary zinc battery technology eliminates traditional failure points and supply chain risks, offering superior batteries with higher margins, increased power and enhanced safety.”
Considering the limitations associated with lithium, a market valued at $70 billion, and the power delivery shortcomings of lead-acid batteries worth $40 billion, a zinc-based battery technology fills the gap and provides a solution for modern applications.
Enzinc has secured four out of five Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) Program grants from the California Energy Commission and, in 2022, closed a $4.5 million seed round led by Portland-based 3×5 Partners.
— Solar Builder magazine
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