Sionic Energy has been awarded a $200,000 SuperBoost grant from the NSF Engines: Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine to advance the development and commercialization of its all-silicon lithium-ion battery platform. This funding aims to accelerate the production of batteries that offer superior energy density, ultra-fast charging capabilities, and compatibility with existing manufacturing processes. The technology is expected to impact various industries, including electric vehicles, aviation, and consumer electronics.
Sionic Energy’s battery platform enhances energy density by up to 42% compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries and reduces charge times to approximately 10 minutes. The advancement is achieved through the use of a proprietary silicon anode and an advanced electrolyte system, which improve battery efficiency without necessitating significant changes to current manufacturing methods. This approach ensures a scalable and cost-effective path to bringing the technology to market.
“Next-generation lithium-ion batteries must not only store more energy but also charge faster and integrate easily into existing production lines,” said Ed Williams, CEO of Sionic Energy. “The support from the Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine allows us to accelerate the commercialization of our silicon battery technology, helping to power the future of sustainable mobility and energy storage solutions.”
The SuperBoost program is a key initiative of the Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine, designed to shorten commercialization timelines from over five years to under two years. By providing targeted funding and facilitating connections between startups and regional testbeds, manufacturing hubs, and industry partners, the program supports the advancement of energy storage innovations in the United States and promotes economic growth in upstate New York.
Fernando Gómez-Baquero, director of the Translation Pillar at the Engine, highlighted the strategic importance of Sionic’s advancements. “Sionic’s work in silicon anode battery technology is a game-changer for lithium-ion energy storage,” he said. “Their ability to deliver higher energy density while ensuring fast-charging capability aligns perfectly with the Engine’s mission to foster breakthrough technologies that can transform the energy storage landscape. Through SuperBoost, we are helping companies like Sionic bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization, strengthening upstate New York’s role as a leader in next-generation mobility solutions.”
Meera Sampath, CEO of the Engine, emphasized this broader impact. “The Engine is designed to provide early-stage energy storage companies with the critical resources they need to scale,” she said. “Our region offers an unparalleled network of manufacturing capabilities and R&D infrastructure, making it an ideal location for accelerating battery innovations. Supporting Sionic through SuperBoost is another step toward strengthening domestic energy self-reliance, reinforcing national security, and positioning upstate New York as America’s Battery Capital.”
With the SuperBoost grant, Sionic Energy plans to validate and prototype its battery technology for automotive and mobility applications, ensuring adherence to industry standards and speeding up its entry into commercial markets. This initiative aligns with national objectives to establish a resilient, U.S.-based battery supply chain and promote clean energy solutions.
