Ontario Construction News staff writer
Asahi Kasei has begun construction on a 1.7-billion-dollar lithium-ion battery separators manufacturing facility in Port Colborne.
The new facility is a first of its kind in Canada.
The plant is expected to begin production in 2027 and will produce battery separators vital to the safe and efficient functioning of EV batteries. These separators help improve the durability and overall performance of the batteries that power electric vehicles.
EllisDon is the general contractor on the project, and the site was cleared by St. Catharines-based Rankin Construction.
“This facility will help connect minerals in northern Ontario with electric vehicle battery manufacturers and automakers across the province,” said Premier Doug Ford. “It’s a critical part of our plan to produce electric vehicles from start to finish here in Ontario, creating high-quality jobs and boosting local economies.”
The project is a joint venture between Asahi Kasei and Honda Canada Inc., which will oversee construction and production.
Port Colborne’s plant will produce enough battery separators to support the production of one million electric vehicles annually. The facility is expected to create over 300 jobs in the region, with the first phase of construction slated for completion in 2027.
“Asahi Kasei’s investment in Ontario’s auto sector will contribute to the province’s growing position as a leader in electric vehicle innovation,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s minister of economic development, job creation and trade. “We are excited to see this partnership between Asahi Kasei and Honda come to fruition, bringing economic growth and good-paying jobs to the Niagara region.”
Since 2020, Ontario has announced more than 45 billion dollars in electric vehicle and battery investments from major companies, including Honda, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, alongside key parts and component producers.