One year after launching public consultations for its cathode active materials (CAM) plant in Saint-Saulve, Axens’ MACARON project has been named by the Élysée as one of France’s 150 major strategic initiatives. This designation follows the award of a Net Zero label by the French State in March 2026 and approval under the Green Industry Investment Tax Credit (C3IV) scheme earlier this year.
The Net Zero label highlights the project’s contribution to reducing Europe’s industrial dependency on critical battery materials, strengthening the resilience of the electric vehicle value chain, and supporting the European Union’s climate and energy objectives. With this recognition, Axens can expect focused support from national and European authorities as it advances through the permitting process.
Under the C3IV program, which targets industrial projects that advance the energy transition, the MACARON project is eligible for a 25 percent investment credit. This incentive will reimburse one quarter of the expenses related to plant construction and equipment installation, providing essential backing to Axens and its industrial partner, Licamax.
In the coming weeks, Axens will submit applications for environmental authorization and building permits, leading to a public inquiry planned for summer 2026. The company aims to make a final investment decision by mid-2027 and begin operations at the Saint-Saulve facility by 2030.
The proposed CAM plant will produce advanced battery materials locally, reinforcing French and European industrial sovereignty in the rapidly growing e-mobility sector. Covering the full value chain—from feasibility studies and technology licensing to commissioning and long-term operational support—Axens is positioned to deliver high performance with a reduced environmental footprint.
Source: Axens
