wiredInUSA January 2018

Exelon Albemarle Corporation are founding investors in Volta Energy Technologies, a new Napierville, Illinois-based firm that aims to connect technical and product development expertise with investment opportunities. “The energy sector is undergoing a transformation,” said Chris Crane, president and CEO of Exelon. “We must help lead the nation through this change by investing in the next big innovations that provide the best commercial and customer solutions. Exelon launched and invested in Volta because we operate at the forefront of energy innovation, and energy storage represents an important next frontier.” Some reports suggest that the worldwide advanced battery and storage market will rise to over $100 billion within a decade. Over the next year, Volta will seek other investors who hold energy storage as a key element of their business strategy. “Investing in Volta is a strategic priority for us,” said Luke Kissam, CEO of Albemarle Corporation. “Many expect that there will be exciting innovations in lithium battery technology in the future, and we want to be a part of any process that might identify new technologies to power the potential of clean energy solutions. We are excited about ultimately creating value in the markets, and for Albemarle, through our partnership with Volta.” Traditional venture capital funds often lack the expertise required to advance innovations from laboratory to market, and public research institutions are not charged with commercializing their work. Volta’s aim is to bridge the gap. Corporation and

Bridging the storage gap

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wiredInUSA - January 2018