UK-based Eqonic Group has unveiled a next-generation battery technology that aims to address three long-standing barriers to scalable energy storage—cost, safety, and sustainability.
After several years of R&D, the company claims to have developed a battery technology system that achieves material costs around 30% of traditional lithium metal batteries, potentially reducing total manufacturing costs to £50/kWh at scale—nearly half the current industry average. Given that materials make up almost 60% of production costs in conventional batteries, this development could reshape cost economics for grid-scale and commercial storage systems.
Beyond cost, the battery technology also mitigates one of the sector’s most persistent safety risks—thermal runaway. Eqonic’s proprietary composite materials are non-flammable, offering a safer alternative for both residential and large-scale installations.
Eqonic’s energy density roadmap projects a clear trajectory: to outperform sodium batteries by 2026, LFP by 2027, and to reach NMC-level performance by 2029. If achieved, this positions the company to compete not just on cost, but on performance metrics that matter across multiple use cases — from mobility to stationary storage.
IeB Perspective: Eqonic’s move reflects a strategic pivot seen among emerging energy innovators: developing core IP-first battery technology platforms while leveraging licensing and strategic partnerships to scale globally.
Instead of building a capital-intensive gigafactory, Eqonic’s licensing-based commercialization model lowers entry barriers and operational risks—opening opportunities for joint ventures, OEM partnerships, and technology integrations across global markets. This approach aligns with the trend of “asset-light scaling”, which allows technology providers to monetize IP while regional manufacturers handle production and distribution.
While developing its proprietary battery technology chemistry, Eqonic has also established a commercial foothold through its LFP-based energy storage systems. The company’s existing portfolio includes low- and high-voltage batteries, hybrid inverters, containerized storage systems, and customizable power conversion solutions. This dual-track model—revenue from established technology supporting R&D in breakthrough innovation—provides near-term stability as the firm transitions toward commercialization of its new platform.
