Enzinc is an engineering technology company developing advanced, high-performance green batteries to support the energy transition. Founded in 2011 by experienced professionals from clean energy, automotive, and aerospace sectors, the company focuses on creating efficient zinc-based battery solutions. Under the leadership of CEO Michael Burz and CMO Dej Knuckey, Enzinc has established itself as an innovator in sustainable energy storage. The company’s approach combines material science expertise with practical manufacturing solutions, enabling traditional battery manufacturers to produce more powerful and environmentally friendly products.
Battery Technology
Enzinc’s primary innovation is its zinc microsponge anode technology, developed in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. This proprietary design addresses common challenges in zinc battery performance while offering significant advantages over traditional energy storage solutions. The technology enables the production of nickel-zinc batteries that deliver three times the energy output and cycle life compared to conventional batteries.
The zinc-based batteries feature an aqueous electrolyte system, eliminating thermal runaway risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. This makes them particularly suitable for applications requiring high safety standards. The technology integrates seamlessly with existing lead-acid battery manufacturing infrastructure, allowing producers to upgrade their facilities with minimal investment.
These batteries excel in both mobile and stationary applications, offering enhanced performance across varied temperature ranges. The use of zinc, the fourth most mined metal globally, ensures reliable material supply and reduces dependency on scarce resources. The batteries are fully recyclable, contributing to sustainable energy storage solutions.
Recent Projects
In 2024, Enzinc expanded its operations by opening a Manufacturing Technology Center in Oakland, California. This facility focuses on scaling up zinc anode production to meet increasing customer demand. The company also secured $8 million in Series A funding, enabling accelerated commercialization of its zinc battery technology. Additionally, Enzinc received recognition through the Energy Storage Award for Research and Development Innovation, validating its technical achievements.
Investors
Enzinc’s financial backing comes from several significant investors, including TO VC, which led the $8 million Series A funding round, and American Century Investments. The company’s seed round was co-led by 3×5 Partners and valued at $4.5 million. Additional support includes a $1.8 million BRIDGE grant from the California Energy Commission, along with funding from CalSEED and CalTestBed programs.
Business Details
Location: Richmond, California, USA (Product Development Center) and Oakland, California, USA (Manufacturing Technology Center)
Website: https://enzinc.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2386600
