Natron Energy has announced plans to construct the first sodium-ion battery gigafactory in North Carolina, representing a $1.4bn investment.

The project has received support in the form of a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state's Economic Investment Committee.

Spanning approximately 1.2 million square feet, the facility will be situated on a 437-acre Kingsboro megasite in Edgecombe County.

At full capacity, it is expected to yield 24GW of sodium-ion batteries each year. Natron Energy's batteries are claimed to be distinguished as the only UL-listed sodium-ion batteries on the market.

The batteries will cater to various sectors including microgrids, data centres, mobility, EV fast charging and telecom.

The operation of the facility will mark a 40-fold increase in Natron’s current production capabilities and is projected to generate more than 1,000 local jobs.

Over the 12-year period of the grant, the project is expected to contribute around $3.4bn to the state's economy.

The JDIG agreement outlines up to $21.75m in potential reimbursements to Natron Energy, distributed across 12 years.

Additionally, the project is expected to receive further support from the North Carolina Megasite Readiness Programme.

Natron Energy co-CEO Wendell Brooks said: “This facility advances Natron Energy’s position as the leader of the next battery revolution.

“Once operational, the Edgecombe County facility will accelerate Natron’s growth trajectory, allowing us to capitalise on the growing demand for efficient, safe and reliable sodium-ion battery energy storage.

“We are proud to be leading the charge in the advancement of a domestic battery supply chain, and we are grateful for the partnership of local and state officials here in North Carolina.”

The latest news comes after Natron Energy in April this year began operations at its sodium-ion battery manufacturing facility in Holland, Michigan.