Congo Republic unipower battery

Can the Democratic Republic of the Congo produce lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials?

London and Kinshasa, November 24, 2021 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) can leverage its abundant cobalt resources and hydroelectric power to become a low-cost and low-emissions producer of lithium-ion battery cathode precursor materials.

How does the DRC influence the global battery supply chain?

Mining policy decisions made by politicians in the DRC’s capital Kinshasa or mining regions like Kolwezi are felt throughout global battery supply chains. For instance, as the producer of 70% of the world’s cobalt, the DRC has influence over the global electric vehicle battery supply chain.

Does the Democratic Republic of the Congo influence the cobalt market?

The mineral-rich Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is often portrayed as a victim of exploitation by China, the US and Europe in their competition for its minerals, which are critical for the energy transition. But our research has found that the DRC can influence the shape of the cobalt market, in which it is the single largest producer.

How much cobalt does the DRC produce?

“The DRC produces about 70 per cent of global cobalt but captures just 3 percent of the battery and electric vehicle value chain.

Is the Democratic Republic of the Congo a victim of exploitation?

An artisanal miner holds a cobalt stone at the Shabara artisanal mine near Kolwezi. Junior Kannah/AFP via Getty Images The mineral-rich Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is often portrayed as a victim of exploitation by China, the US and Europe in their competition for its minerals, which are critical for the energy transition.

How much would a DRC plant cost?

This is three times cheaper than what a similar plant in the U.S. would cost. A similar plant in China and Poland would cost an estimated $112 million and $65 million, respectively. Precursor material produced at plants in the DRC could be cost competitive with material produced in China and Poland but with a lower environmental footprint.