Umicore and PowerCo to Launch €1.7 Billion CAM Plant in Wałbrzych Special Economic Zone by 2030

Umicore and PowerCo are set to invest approximately €1.7 billion by 2030 in a new facility dedicated to producing active cathode materials (CAM) for electric vehicle batteries. This initiative, part of the IONWAY joint venture established in early 2023, aims to meet the demands of PowerCo. The plant, situated in Nysa within the “INVEST-PARK” Wałbrzych Special Economic Zone, marks Umicore's third venture in Poland and its second in the region focused on cathode battery materials for the European automotive sector. Construction is slated to begin this year, with production commencing in 2026, and the factory is expected to generate around 900 jobs by 2030.

Umicore, present in Poland since 2015, and PowerCo highlight the Opole and Nysa regions as ideal for their business expansion, noting the strategic location in Central Europe with efficient transport connections. This location is pivotal for supply chain efficiency and supports the partnership's commitment to a sustainable, circular economy through the IONWAY project. The proximity to prominent universities and research institutes in Opole, Wrocław, and the Upper Silesian Conurbation is a key factor in securing highly skilled employees.

This investment not only promises a steady flow of orders for Umicore but also guarantees a consistent supply of active cathode material for PowerCo, fostering growth for both entities in this collaborative venture.