NGK Insulators, founded 1919, develops sodium–sulfur grid batteries and EnerCera ultra‑thin lithium cells while operating European beryllium‑copper alloy plants. Ceramic-based technologies deliver long life and safety for utility storage, microgrids, and IoT devices.
NGK Insulators, founded in 1919 and headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, is a manufacturer of advanced ceramics and energy storage systems. The company’s core activities include sodium–sulfur (NAS) grid-scale batteries, EnerCera ultra‑thin lithium cells, and metals production through European beryllium‑copper alloy facilities. NGK combines ceramic material science with energy storage engineering to supply utilities, industrial customers, and electronics markets. Its stated focus is on reliable, long‑life energy storage and durable ceramic products that support renewable integration and resilient power infrastructure.
NGK’s core technologies center on ceramic-based electrochemistry and thin-film battery construction. NAS batteries use a beta‑alumina solid electrolyte and high-temperature sodium–sulfur chemistry (~300°C) to deliver high energy capacity, long calendar life (reported <1% annual capacity loss under regular cycling), and certified fire-risk performance. EnerCera cells apply ceramic electrode design in an ultra‑thin lithium format (down to ~0.45 mm) for fast charge, high discharge currents, and low self‑discharge. NGK also pursues zinc-based rechargeable chemistries and collaborates with partners such as BASF to extend duration and manufacturing efficiency.
NGK supplies sodium–sulfur (NAS) stationary batteries for grid-scale energy storage and microgrids, ultra‑thin EnerCera lithium cells for IoT and wearable devices, and beryllium‑copper alloy products produced at European plants. Key benefits include long lifecycle and safety for utility applications, compact fast‑charging cells for electronics, and metal alloys for industrial and electrical components.
In 2025 NGK deployed a 70 MWh NAS battery project in Japan (May 2025) delivering utility-scale storage capacity for grid services. In June 2025 NGK completed a grid‑stabilization deployment in Hungary in partnership with the national utility (MVM) to support renewable integration and frequency control. These projects emphasize multi‑hour storage capacity and system integration with local grid operators.
NGK’s ownership is dominated by institutional investors (~59.5%), with the general public holding ~40.4% and insiders ~0.07%. Major shareholders include Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance, Nomura Asset Management, Dai‑ichi Life, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, and Nikko Asset Management. Additional holdings are reported among global fund managers such as Vanguard, Goldman Sachs, and major ETF issuers, reflecting a stable, long‑term investor base.
