Vianode, a Norwegian developer of advanced battery materials, will establish its first large-scale, low-emission synthetic anode graphite production facility in Ontario, Canada. Synthetic graphite is a key component in lithium-ion batteries and is also used in defense, nuclear, industrial applications, semiconductors and steel production. The project supports Canada’s role in the G7 Critical Minerals Production Alliance by helping to diversify and secure domestic supply chains.
Structured as a phased, multi-billion-dollar investment, the facility will begin with an initial outlay exceeding CAD 2 billion. As future expansions are completed, capacity is expected to reach as much as 150,000 tons per year, strengthening North America’s access to this strategic material. Ground preparation is already under way following completion of a front-end engineering design study, with production slated to start in 2028.
“North American supply chains are heavily reliant on graphite sourced from China for lithium-ion batteries, defence technologies, nuclear technology and more. A large-scale facility in Ontario delivering high-performance anode graphite solutions will provide Canada with domestic capacity that will make supply chains more resilient. This scalable project is a key building block that aligns with recent shifts in trade policy and supports our ambition to be a leading and trusted supplier for G7 supply chains,” says Burkhard Straube, CEO of Vianode.
The federal government has endorsed the project as part of its national priorities and international commitments. Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources emphasized that the alliance enables deployment of sovereign tools, investment mobilization and offtake arrangements to accelerate secure, resilient critical minerals supply chains. These efforts are intended to drive the clean energy transition, bolster defense and manufacturing capabilities, and position Canada as a trusted supplier to allied nations.
Claude Guay, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister, added that supporting projects aligned with the Alliance’s goals promotes responsible resource development, fosters innovation, and reinforces Canada’s role as a global partner in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
The initial phase of the Ontario plant will create approximately 300 skilled jobs, rising to around 1,000 roles at full capacity. Ontario was selected for its manufacturing infrastructure, low-carbon electricity grid and strategic location. Vianode has operated an industrial pilot facility in Kristiansand, Norway, since 2021 and started production at its sustainable Via ONE plant in 2024. The company also recently introduced a high-performance recycled-materials graphite solution.
Source: Vianode Press Release
