Norway-based Hydrovolt—the 50/50 joint venture between the Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt and the Norwegian energy and aluminum company Hydro—has taken its final investment decision on expanding its business to France through establishing recycling capacity located in Hordain in the heart of Northern France’s battery valley.

Hydrovolt is already running one of Europe’s largest EV battery recycling plants in Fredrikstad, Norway. Hydrovolt chose Northern France as the preferred entry region as it is a growing hub for the battery value chain.

The area has already attracted four major battery gigafactory investments, much due to the region’s location, skilled workforce and industrial and automotive tradition.

This is a big milestone for Hydrovolt, and the entry to the French market will help us maintain our position as a leading European recycler of EV and industrial batteries. It is key for us to establish local presence across Europe to help build a circular battery value chain.

—Ole-Christen Enger, CEO of Hydrovolt

As a first step, Hydrovolt will be establishing a collection point with the ability to discharge and dismantle EV batteries and industrial batteries. The chosen site in Hordain already has a set-up suitable for recycling operations designed at approx. 3000 square meters. Pending final permits, the company estimates to start operations in 2025.

European demand for batteries is growing exponentially, mainly driven by the electrification of transport, with an expectation to further increase by 2030. Recycling provides a new supply of battery-grade metals.