Vianode has begun site preparation for its Via TWO synthetic graphite facility in St. Thomas, Ontario, marking the formal start of what will be North America’s largest low-emission synthetic anode graphite plant. The facility, located in the Yarmouth Yards Industrial Park, is scheduled to begin operations in 2028 and is part of Vianode’s broader strategy to expand its presence in North America and support the clean-energy transition.
The site was selected following a comprehensive North American assessment of potential locations. Key factors in the decision included proximity to major automotive manufacturers, access to Ontario’s clean electricity grid, a skilled local workforce, and strong backing from municipal and provincial governments. Subject to a definitive agreement, the Government of Ontario has agreed to provide a loan of up to CAD 670 million to support the project.
“Today marks an important step towards a resilient North American battery supply chain. Ontario and the city of St. Thomas have been strong partners from day one, and Via TWO will bring industrial-scale, low-emission graphite to market through a phased build-out that supports customers, communities and the clean-energy transition”, says Burkhard Straube, CEO of Vianode.
The phased, multi-billion-dollar investment will eventually enable annual production of up to 150,000 metric tons of synthetic graphite—enough to supply anode material for approximately two million electric vehicles each year. In the first phase, the facility is expected to create around 300 highly skilled positions, scaling up to roughly 1,000 jobs once full capacity is reached. These roles will span operations, engineering, quality control, and supply chain management.
“Today’s announcement is a historic milestone for southwestern Ontario and a major win for workers, creating good-paying manufacturing jobs today and for generations to come,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We’re proud to welcome Vianode to St. Thomas as we strengthen our province’s competitive advantage in a critical industry and build the most competitive, resilient, self-reliant economy in the G7.”
“Vianode’s decision is a clear signal that Ontario remains a dependable and competitive partner for business growth,” said Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario. “Investing today demands clear strategy and steady navigation through a changing economic landscape, especially for landmark projects of this scale. We’re proud to have worked with Vianode along the way to help it enter a new market and grow with confidence in Ontario.”
Since commissioning its first full-scale synthetic graphite plant in 2024 and operating a technology center in Norway, Vianode aims to supply materials for up to three million electric vehicles annually by 2030. The St. Thomas project represents a pivotal step toward that goal, reinforcing the region’s position in the critical minerals supply chain and supporting long-term economic growth.
Source: Vianode News
