CATL has signed a memorandum of understanding with European energy storage provider INTILION to deploy 3GWh of sodium-ion battery storage systems across Germany, Switzerland and Austria over the next five years, according to Chinese automotive outlet Gasgoo.
The deal covers CATL's Tianheng sodium-ion storage product, which the Chinese battery maker designed for overseas cold-climate markets. The system is rated for 15,000 charge cycles, a designed operating life of 25 years, and maintains high discharge power at -20 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for European grid frequency regulation and commercial and industrial storage applications.
The partnership is not new. Since 2022, CATL and INTILION have delivered more than 30 storage projects in Germany, building experience in project delivery, local maintenance and grid connection. INTILION brings integration expertise, sales channels and customer relationships in the German-speaking region, which CATL says will accelerate adoption of its sodium-ion storage solutions in Europe.
Why sodium matters for Europe
European storage demand is growing, but cold-weather operation, grid access rules and safety standards create high entry barriers. Sodium-ion chemistry offers advantages in wide-temperature performance, longevity and safety compared with lithium-based alternatives, CATL said, positioning it as a complement to lithium storage in the region.
The 3GWh framework agreement marks a step toward commercial-scale deployment of Chinese sodium-ion storage in Europe. CATL said the two companies will continue to pursue parallel deployment of sodium-ion and lithium-based technology routes on the continent.
The agreement comes as European storage markets expand rapidly, with utilities and industrial customers seeking systems that can handle low temperatures while meeting strict grid and safety requirements. Sodium-ion cells also rely on more abundant raw materials than lithium, which could ease supply-chain concerns for European buyers.
CATL, the world's largest battery maker, has been investing heavily in sodium-ion technology as a complement to its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and ternary chemistries. The company has said sodium-ion cells could help reduce dependence on lithium imports and offer a lower-cost option for applications where energy density is less critical than cost and safety.
INTILION, headquartered in Germany, focuses on battery storage systems for grid-scale and commercial use. Its regional footprint will be key to navigating Germany's complex grid connection procedures and local regulatory requirements, which have slowed some foreign storage entrants.
Financial terms of the memorandum were not disclosed. The deal does not include pricing details, and no specific project timelines have been announced beyond the five-year framework.
