Windsor, Canada – NextStar Energy’s Windsor battery plant has reached a production milestone with its one-millionth battery cell since commercial operations began in November 2025. This achievement coincides with the onboarding of more than 1,300 direct employees and an investment exceeding CA$5 billion in the facility. As the country’s only commercial-scale battery manufacturing site, NextStar Energy aims to bolster domestic growth and innovation in automotive and energy storage markets.
Battery cells at the Windsor facility undergo precision assembly, including electrode coating, cell stacking and formation cycling, supported by advanced automation and multi-stage quality verification processes. Each cell is validated through real-time monitoring systems to ensure consistent performance and reliability. The plant holds ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and IATF 16949 certifications, reflecting its commitment to environmental management, workplace health and safety and automotive-grade quality standards.
Since opening, NextStar Energy has announced strategic partnerships and supplier agreements to secure critical battery materials, reinforcing supply chain resilience and supporting local economic development. Brett Hillock, Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the contribution of the workforce to the rapid production ramp-up, attributing success to employee expertise and dedication.
NextStar Energy is transitioning to full ownership under LG Energy Solution while maintaining Stellantis as a committed customer. This ownership structure will leverage LG Energy Solution’s technological leadership and global operational network to expand NextStar Energy’s customer base, including the energy storage system sector. Production of ESS battery cells is expected to accelerate through 2026, further establishing Canada’s role in global energy storage innovation.
This milestone underscores NextStar Energy’s focus on scaling capacity, upholding high product quality and nurturing a skilled workforce. Ongoing investment and strategic partnerships are set to enhance the facility’s contribution to clean-technology manufacturing and support the broader shift toward electrified mobility and energy storage applications.
Source: LG Energy Solution Press Release
