Good morning, dear getquin community.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been taking a deep dive into the battery and energy storage industry—its entire value chain, the major players, and the hidden champions behind the scenes. Today, I’d like to share this knowledge with you @Tenbagger2024 and show how individual technologies are coming together to form a cohesive energy system. I look forward to hearing your perspectives on this.

It’s no coincidence that Warren Buffett $BRK.B (-0,88%) Berkshire Hathaway. He recognizes early on where real value is created and what role chemical processes play in the development of modern energy and storage systems. That is precisely where it will be determined how efficiently batteries and fuel cells will be produced, operated, and recycled in the future—and who will profit from this transformation in the long term.

Personally, I’m not yet as broadly positioned in this sector as I’d like to be. I’ve already invested in some segments, but the entire value chain still offers enormous potential—and that’s exactly what I wanted to better understand through this analysis, among other things.

I’ve deliberately avoided mentioning personal favorites @Multibagger to keep the analysis neutral. If you’re particularly interested in certain companies, topics, or questions, feel free to mention them here in the comments. I’m open to feedback, additions, and discussions, and if any key players are missing in a particular area, I’ll be happy to add them later. This post ended up being a bit longer because I wanted to present the topic comprehensively and clearly. If you’re primarily interested in the companies, the value chain, and the shovel manufacturers, you can skip ahead to points 13 through 16.

Perhaps Part 2 will cover fuel cells, if that’s what you’d like? I wish you all the best of luck with your investments and, of course, a wonderful Sunday.

Structure of the Post

1. Introduction and Hook

2. Topic and Objective: Value Creation Concept 3. The Battery Industry as a Model

4. Basic Principle of the Battery

5. Applications

6. Battery Life Cycle

7. Future Trends

8. Raw Material Base and Development

9. Value Chain Stages 1–9

10. Value Creation Vectors in the Battery Industry

Value Creation as a Cycle and an Overall Model

11. Macro and Micro Levels and How They Fit Together

12. Significance of Battery Industry 4.0

13. Value Chain with Company Assignments for Stages 1–8

14. Key Players at Each Stage, Plus Overarching Financiers and Strategic Distributors

15. Points of Connection: Hybrid Energy Systems for Data Centers, Industry, and Transportation

16. Energy for Humanoid Robots: The Next Evolutionary Stage of Application

17. Takeaway with a Hidden Question in the Body Text

18. Sources

2️⃣.Topic and Objective of the Article

The battery industry has long been more than just cell manufacturing or e-mobility. It is at the center of a global structural transformation that is redistributing energy, technology, and capital. The goal of this article is to understand the battery as a complete value chain—from raw material extraction through material technologies, production, and application to recycling and recovery.

I will show how genuine value is created along this chain, which industries benefit directly from it, and why the battery industry is becoming a central link in future energy systems. At the same time, the goal is to view the whole as a strategic model—a convergence of technology, economics, and sustainability that extends far beyond the mobility sector.

3️⃣.Basic Principle of the Battery

At its core, a battery is a chemical energy storage device that stores electrical energy in the form of chemical compounds and releases it again when needed. It consists of three main components: an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte. During charging and discharging, positively charged ions move back and forth between these electrodes. This generates an electric current that can be used to power vehicles, supply machinery, or stabilize energy in grids.

The basic principle is reversible. This means that energy can not only be drawn from the battery but also fed back into it. This simple yet highly effective reaction makes batteries one of the central building blocks of modern energy systems. Thanks to advances in chemistry, materials technology, and manufacturing, performance is steadily increasing, while weight, charging time, and costs are continuously decreasing.

4️⃣.Applications

Today, batteries are far more than just a power source for electric cars. They are the backbone of modern energy systems and key to stabilizing renewable power grids. Their applications range from electric mobility to stationary energy storage to industrial and digital applications.

In the mobility sector, batteries enable the transition from internal combustion engines to electric drive technology and form the foundation of new vehicle platforms. In the energy sector, they serve as buffer storage for solar and wind power, balance out grid fluctuations, and ensure a reliable supply during peak times. In industry, they ensure supply reliability, efficiency, and emergency power solutions, while in data centers they are increasingly being used as emission-free backup systems.

In addition, new areas of application are emerging in aviation and maritime transport, in household and building systems, and in microgrids that supply remote regions or industrial parks with energy independently of the central grid. Batteries are thus a universal energy storage medium that connects sectors and lays the foundation for flexible, decentralized energy architectures.

5️⃣.Battery Life Cycle

A battery goes through a clearly defined life cycle that extends far beyond its actual use. It begins with the extraction and processing of raw materials, continues through cell and system manufacturing to the active use phase, and ends with the recovery and recycling of the materials.

During the production phase, active materials and cells are manufactured from raw materials such as lithium, nickel, manganese, cobalt, graphite, and copper. These cells are then assembled into modules and complete battery packs. During the usage phase, the batteries provide energy for years in vehicles, energy storage systems, or industrial facilities.

Once the end of their service life is reached, the second cycle begins. Cells that are still powerful enough are reused in so-called second-life applications, such as stationary energy storage systems. Finally, the recycling process takes place, during which valuable raw materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt are recovered and fed back into the production cycle.

This closed-loop material cycle is the crucial step toward a sustainable battery economy. It reduces dependence on primary raw materials, lowers environmental impact, and makes the entire value chain more resilient in the long term.

6️⃣.Future Trends

The battery industry is facing a period of massive technological and structural change. Progress is shifting from a focus on sheer capacity increases toward efficiency, sustainability, and material independence.

A key trend is the shift toward solid-state batteries, which—thanks to solid electrolytes—are safer, more compact, and more powerful than today’s lithium-ion systems. At the same time, silicon anodes are gaining importance, as they enable higher energy densities and shorter charging times. Sodium-ion batteries open up new possibilities for cost-effective storage solutions, particularly in applications where weight and energy density are less critical.

The digitization of batteries is also advancing. Smart battery management systems analyze the condition, temperature, and state of charge of each cell in real time. This not only improves safety but also extends service life and optimizes operation.

On an economic level, the industry is moving toward vertical integration: manufacturers are securing raw materials, energy suppliers are building their own storage facilities, and technology conglomerates are investing directly in manufacturing capacity. At the same time, political pressure is growing for a circular economy, recycling, and carbon neutrality.

The future of batteries thus lies in a combination of new materials, smart control systems, and closed-loop systems. Those who successfully integrate these three elements will play a decisive role in shaping the dynamics of the energy market in the coming years.

7️⃣.Raw Material Base and Development

The battery industry begins at the source of raw materials. Lithium, nickel, manganese, cobalt, copper, and graphite currently form the basis of nearly all high-performance cells. These metals determine the energy density, stability, and service life of every battery. At the same time, they are the most sensitive part of the value chain, as their extraction, processing, and supply determine costs, sustainability, and geopolitical dependencies.

A significant shift has taken place in recent years. Companies and governments are investing in new mining areas, recycling facilities, and alternative materials to ensure a secure supply. Lithium and nickel, in particular, remain key materials, while cobalt is increasingly being replaced. Graphite is undergoing a transformation toward synthetic and recycled forms, which are intended to reduce dependence on China.

The trend is clearly moving toward material efficiency and a circular economy. Instead of constantly opening new mines, closed-loop systems are emerging in which raw materials are reused multiple times. At the same time, alternative cell chemistries are coming to the fore, relying on abundantly available elements such as sodium, iron, or silicon.

This shift reduces costs, lowers environmental impacts, and increases the independence of entire economies. The raw material base of the battery industry is thus transforming from a linear supply chain into a global, circular material network that combines technology, recycling, and sustainability.

8️⃣.Value Chain

The battery industry follows a clear industrial logic that extends from the extraction of raw materials to the recycling of materials. Each stage in this chain creates its own value and is, at the same time, a prerequisite for the next.

1. Raw Material Extraction – Mining and extraction of lithium, nickel, manganese, cobalt, copper, and graphite from mines and salt lakes. This stage determines the cost structure and environmental footprint of the entire battery.

2. Refining and processing – Processing raw materials into battery chemicals, such as lithium hydroxide or nickel sulfate, which are used in cell production.

3. Materials technology and component manufacturing – Production of cathode, anode, and electrolyte materials, as well as separators, conductive foils, and binders.

4. Cell production – Assembling the materials into electrochemical cells through coating, stacking, and sealing. This step determines capacity, safety, and quality.

5. Module and pack manufacturing—Cells are assembled into modules and complete battery packs, including the battery management system and cooling.

6. System integration – Installation of battery packs in vehicles, energy storage systems, or industrial equipment. This is where the battery, software, and power electronics come together.

7. Use and operation – The battery’s operational phase spanning several years. Digital monitoring and predictive maintenance extend its service life and efficiency.

8. Recovery and Recycling – At the end of the life cycle, materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and graphite are recycled and returned to the production cycle.

Together, these eight stages form the complete industrial cycle of the battery industry. Value is created at every stage, but it is greatest where technology, energy efficiency, and recycling intersect. This is the point at which a supply chain becomes a true value-creation system.

9️⃣.Value Creation Vectors in the Battery Industry

The battery industry is shaped not only by production processes but also by several overarching forces that act like vectors, cutting across all stages of the value chain. These vectors determine which companies remain at the forefront and where value is concentrated in the long term.

1. Technology Vector

Advances in cell chemistry, materials science, manufacturing, and software integration. Companies that scale up in these areas reduce costs and increase energy density, safety, and service life.

2. Digitalization Vector

Data management, condition analysis, cloud-based battery monitoring, and predictive maintenance. This level connects physical systems with AI and makes operations and recycling more predictable.

3. Sustainability Vector

Circular economy, carbon-neutral production, ESG standards, and material recycling. Companies that lead in this area secure long-term approvals and capital.

4. Finance and Investment Vector

Capital flows from government subsidies, private funds, and infrastructure programs that finance manufacturing capacity and research.

5. Infrastructure Vector

Construction of gigafactories, recycling centers, charging infrastructure, and energy storage facilities. This foundation is crucial for scaling up and ensuring supply security.

6. Geopolitical Vector

Location decisions, trade agreements, raw material dependencies, and security interests determine who has access to strategic materials and markets.

These vectors operate simultaneously and reinforce one another. The true dynamics of the battery industry emerge where technology, sustainability, and capital are intelligently intertwined. This is the axis where innovation, returns, and resilience converge.

🔟.Value Creation as a Cycle

The battery industry is increasingly evolving from a linear supply chain into a closed-loop system. Energy, materials, and data flow continuously between production, use, and recycling. The goal is to conserve resources, minimize losses, and increase value throughout the entire life cycle.

The cycle begins with raw material extraction and proceeds through material development, cell manufacturing, and integration, all the way to use in vehicles, energy storage systems, and industrial facilities. After the operational phase, materials are recovered and reused in new batteries. This physical cycle is complemented by a digital data cycle in which all relevant information about the condition, performance, and age of each cell is stored and analyzed.

This creates a system that optimizes itself. Data from operations flows back into research, design, and recycling, making new generations of batteries more efficient, safer, and more sustainable. This combination of physical and digital cycles is the key to genuine value creation in the Battery Industry 4.0.

1️⃣1️⃣.Macro and Micro Levels

The battery industry operates on two interconnected levels that drive and stabilize one another. At the macro level, global structures, political programs, and economic frameworks take shape. At the micro level, technological, chemical, and process-related developments come into play, making these larger trends possible in the first place.

The macro level encompasses everything that drives the industry as a whole: geopolitical interests, energy policy, subsidy programs, trade, infrastructure, and capital flows. This is where the course is set for where gigafactories are built, which countries secure access to raw materials, and how nations reduce their energy dependence.

The micro level describes the technical reality: cell chemistry, material innovation, manufacturing technology, software integration, and recycling processes. This is where actual progress takes place. Every new battery chemistry, every improvement in energy management, or every reduction in the use of rare metals alters the larger system in the background.

Both levels are intertwined. Political decisions and capital flows at the macro level enable technological developments at the micro level, while technological breakthroughs, in turn, trigger new markets, trade structures, and investment cycles. It is precisely at this intersection—where technology, politics, and the economy interact within a closed system—that the strategic potential of the battery industry emerges.

1️⃣2️⃣.The Significance of Battery Industry 4.0

Battery Industry 4.0 stands for the complete digitization and networking of all processes along the value chain. It combines production, energy, data, and sustainability into a single intelligent system that is controlled, monitored, and optimized in real time.

At its core is the integration of physical equipment with digital platforms. Every cell, every machine, and every process provides data that is analyzed using AI and analytics. This creates a self-learning system that detects errors early, ensures quality, and extends the service life of the batteries.

In manufacturing, automated lines, robotics, and machine learning maximize efficiency and precision. During operation, cloud services and IoT sensors enable continuous condition monitoring, which optimizes maintenance, safety, and performance. At the same time, environmental data is collected to make CO₂ footprints transparent and verifiable.

Battery Industry 4.0 is therefore not just a buzzword, but the transition to a fully integrated, data-driven energy industry. It lays the foundation for scalability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, and connects research, production, use, and recycling in a closed digital loop.

Visual Overview of the Battery Value Chain

To make the entire structure more tangible, I have divided the battery industry system into three levels:

1. Macro level: global value creation, energy policy, raw material and production networks.

2. Micro level: technological processes, material cycles, and innovation axes.

3. Overall Model: the integration of both levels into a closed-loop system that connects production, use, and recovery.

This diagram illustrates how linear supply chains evolve into a circular, digitally controlled energy system—the very DNA of the Battery Industry 4.0.

➡️Battery Value Creation: Macro–Micro–Overall Model

[R&D] [Engineering] [Digitalization]

↓ ↓ ↓

Raw Materials → Materials → Cells → Systems → Use → Recycling

↑ ↑ ↑

[Supply Chain] [Second Life] [Service]

1️⃣3️⃣.Value Chain with Company Assignments + Hidden Champions

Specialized value is created at every stage along the battery value chain. Companies strategically occupy individual segments or integrate multiple areas to strengthen their position. The combination of material expertise, technological competence, and system integration determines who comes out ahead in global competition.

1. Raw Material Extraction

Lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite:

$ALB (+1,97%) Albemarle (NYSE: ALB) – U.S. One of the world’s largest lithium producers with mining sites in Chile, Australia, and the U.S. Supplies global cell production with lithium hydroxide for cathode materials

$SQM SQM (NYSE: SQM) – Chile – Specializes in lithium and potash products from the salt lakes of the Atacama Desert. Plays a central role in South America’s battery raw material supply

$9696 (+3,42%) Tianqi Lithium (SHE: 002466 / HKG: 9696) – China – Tianqi Lithium is one of the world’s largest lithium producers, with stakes in major hard-rock lithium projects in Australia (Greenbushes Mine) and processing facilities in China. The company supplies lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate for cathode materials in the battery industry. Focus on upstream control and chemical processing

$GLEN (+0,08%) Glencore (LSE: GLEN) – Switzerland – A diversified commodities group focused on nickel, cobalt, and copper. A leader in the recycling and reuse of battery waste

$SSW Sibanye Stillwater (JSE: SSW / NYSE: SBSW) – South Africa / U.S. – Sibanye Stillwater is a mining company focused on platinum group metals such as platinum and palladium (important for fuel cell catalysts), as well as nickel and cobalt from recycling and mining. Strategically particularly relevant because it engages in both primary mining and metal recovery. This positions it at the intersection of battery raw materials, fuel cell catalysts, and recycling streams

$PLS (-4,69%) Pilbara Minerals (ASX: PLS) – Australia – A major producer of spodumene concentrate. It is driving the expansion of local lithium value creation in Western Australia

$SYR (-6,1%) Syrah Resources (ASX: SYR) – Australia / Mozambique – Mines natural graphite in Balama, Mozambique, and is establishing anode materials production in the U.S. Strategically important for the Western graphite supply

Copper and other industrial metals:

$FCX Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE: FCX) – U.S. – One of the world’s largest copper producers. Supplies the battery and electronics industries with copper cathodes from mines in North and South America

$BHP (+0%) BHP Group (NYSE: BHP) – Australia / UK – Global mining conglomerate focused on copper, nickel, and iron. Invests heavily in sustainable mining and the decarbonization of raw material production

$RIO (-0,27%) Rio Tinto (NYSE: RIO) – United Kingdom / Australia – A multinational commodities giant with a growing presence in the lithium sector. A leader in sustainable copper mining and materials processing

Hidden Champions

$SLI (-3,03%) Standard Lithium (NYSE: SLI / TSX-V: SLI) – Canada / U.S. – Standard Lithium is developing direct lithium extraction (DLE) from brine in the U.S. The goal is to extract lithium without traditional hard-rock mining or massive evaporation ponds. This positions the company as a technology-driven lithium developer focused on ensuring North American supply security. This is clearly a second-tier stock with significant upside potential

$VUL (-1,19%) Vulcan Energy Resources (ASX: VUL) – Australia / Germany - Vulcan Energy is working on geothermal-coupled lithium extraction in the Upper Rhine Graben in Germany. Approach: Low-carbon lithium production from thermal brine plus regional supply for the European battery cell industry. This is extremely important geopolitically because it enables lithium from Europe for Europe without relying on traditional mining infrastructure

$LKE (-7,69%) Lake Resources (ASX: LKE) – Australia – Develops lithium projects using sustainable direct extraction technology (DLE). The goal is to extract lithium with minimal water consumption and CO₂ emissions

$SGML (+4,8%) Sigma Lithium (NASDAQ: SGML) – Canada/Brazil – Produces high-purity lithium concentrate in Brazil with a focus on ESG-compliant mining and local value creation

$ABAT American Battery Technology Company (NASDAQ: ABAT) – U.S. – Combines raw material extraction with the recycling of lithium and nickel. A pioneer in closed-loop material cycles using domestic sources

2. Refining and Processing

These companies process raw materials into battery chemicals, thereby facilitating the transition to materials technology.

$UMI (-2,67%) Umicore (EBR: UMI) – Belgium – A leader in the refining and processing of nickel, cobalt, and lithium. Develops cathode materials and operates recycling centers in Europe and Asia.

$BAS (-0,15%) BASF (ETR: BAS) – Germany – Global chemical company with a growing focus on battery materials, particularly cathode active materials and nickel-manganese chemistries

$003670 POSCO Future M (KRX: 003670) – South Korea – A specialist in cathode and anode materials. Part of the POSCO Group, it supplies LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI

$051910 LG Chem (KRX: 051910) – South Korea – Develops and manufactures battery materials, polymers, and electrolytes. Closely integrated with LG Energy Solution throughout the entire supply chain

$010130 Korea Zinc (KRX: 010130) – South Korea – Leading provider of rare metal refining. Supplies nickel and zinc products for battery cathodes

Hidden Champions

Ecopro (KRX: 086520) – South Korea – Manufacturer of high-purity cathode materials and precursors for nickel and cobalt chemistries. Key supplier to LG Energy Solution and SK On

Sila Nanotechnologies (private, U.S.) - Develops silicon anode materials to increase energy density and charging speed. Supplies automakers with advanced battery materials

Green Lithium – United Kingdom (private) - Is building Europe’s first large-scale lithium refinery. Focus on ESG-compliant, energy-efficient refining for the European market

Mangrove Lithium – Canada (privately held) - Develops modular refinery plants based on electrochemical processes to convert lithium concentrate into battery-grade lithium hydroxide

$ICL ICL Group (NYSE: ICL) – Israel – Manufactures specialty chemicals and electrolytes for batteries and energy storage. Combines chemical expertise with sustainable process optimization

3. Materials Technology and Component Manufacturing

They supply cathode and anode materials, electrolytes, separators, and coating systems.

$3407 (+0,26%) Asahi Kasei (TYO: 3407) – Japan – Manufacturer of separator films and electrolytes. A global leader in thermal stability and safety

$3402 (+0,06%) Toray Industries (TYO: 3402) – Japan – Develops high-performance polymers and carbon materials for electrodes, separators, and casings

$SOLB (-0,56%) Solvay (EBR: SOLB) – Belgium – Chemical company focused on binders, electrolyte salts, and coatings for cathode and anode production

$MMM 3M (NYSE: MMM) – U.S. – Supplier of additives, protective coatings, and conductive materials. Strong partner in cell and module manufacturing

$018880 Hanon Systems (KRX: 018880) – South Korea – Specializes in thermal management solutions for battery packs and electric powertrains

$PPG PPG Industries (NYSE: PPG) – USA – One of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty coatings and functional materials. Develops conductive and protective coatings for battery cells, enclosures, and interconnect components. Supports cell manufacturers with solutions to improve heat dissipation, safety, and service life

Hidden Champions

Nexeon – United Kingdom (privately held) – Develops silicon anode materials to increase energy density in lithium-ion cells. Focuses on lightweight construction and fast-charging capability

Group14 Technologies – U.S. (privately held) – A pioneer in silicon-carbon composites. Collaborates with automakers and cell manufacturers on the next generation of high-energy anodes

$TLG (+1,59%) Talga Group (ASX: TLG) – Australia/Sweden – Integrates graphite mining and anode production. Aims to sustainably produce carbon materials for European cell manufacturing

4. Cell Production

The technological heart of the value chain. This is where capacity, energy density, and cost structures are determined.

$3750 (+4,96%) CATL (SHE: 3750) – China – The world’s largest battery manufacturer with a market share of over 30 percent. A leader in LFP and NMC technologies and a partner to numerous OEMs

$373220 LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220) – South Korea – Global cell manufacturer with plants in Asia, Europe, and the U.S. Focuses on high-performance cells for e-mobility and energy storage

$SMSN Samsung SDI (KRX: 006400) – South Korea – Focuses on premium cells with high energy density. Close supplier to BMW, Rivian, and other premium manufacturers

$6752 (-1,11%) Panasonic Holdings (TYO: 6752) – Japan – Long-standing partner of Tesla. Building new production facilities in the U.S. and Japan

Northvolt – Sweden (privately held) – European pioneer in sustainable battery manufacturing. Focus on the circular economy, green energy, and closed-loop supply chains

Hidden Champions

$QS QuantumScape (NYSE: QS) – U.S. – Develops solid-state batteries with ceramic electrolytes for higher energy density and safety. Partners with Volkswagen

$SLDP Solid Power (NASDAQ: SLDP) – U.S. – Specializes in solid-state electrolytes and high-performance cells for automotive applications. Collaborations with BMW and Ford

24M Technologies (private, USA) – Develops semi-solid lithium-ion cells with simplified production. Significantly reduces costs and material consumption

$AMPX Amprius Technologies (NYSE: AMPX) – U.S. – Specializes in silicon nanowire anodes with extremely high energy density. Applications in aviation, drones, and robotics

$ENVX (+10,53%) Enovix (NASDAQ: ENVX) – U.S. – Develops 3D silicon cells with a novel architecture. Focuses on safety, fast charging, and compact formats

ProLogium – Taiwan (privately held) – Technology leader in solid-state batteries. Building the first large-scale production plant in Europe with partners from the automotive industry

5. Module and Pack Manufacturing

In this phase, individual cells are assembled into complete battery modules and packs. This is where mechanical engineering, robotics, and precision technology converge with energy chemistry and quality assurance. Companies such as KUKA (ETR: KU2), $ABBN (-1,88%) ABB Robotics (VTX: ABBN), Comau (privately held, Italy), Teamtechnik (privately held, Germany), and $LECN Leclanché (SWX: LECN) supply automated systems for the assembly, welding, testing, and cooling of battery modules. Cell manufacturers such as $300014 EVE Energy (SHE: 300014) or $3750 (+4,96%) CATL (SHE: 3750) also manufacture complete battery systems for the automotive and industrial sectors.

Hidden Champions such as $VAR1 Varta (ETR: VAR1), $MVST Microvast (NASDAQ: MVST), and $FORSE (-3,16%) Forsee Power (EPA: FORSE) are developing modular high-performance batteries for commercial vehicles, rail, shipping, and stationary storage solutions.

These companies combine innovative cell chemistry with thermal management, fast-charging capabilities, and longevity.

At the same time, automakers such as $TSLA Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA), $1211 (+5,06%) BYD (HKG: 1211), $VOW3 (-0,07%) Volkswagen (ETR: VOW3), $BMW (+0,76%) BMW (ETR: BMW), $MBG (-1,34%) Mercedes-Benz Group (ETR: MBG), $XPEV Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV), $NIO NIO (NYSE: NIO), and $RIVN Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) are increasingly integrating cell production into their own value chains in order to independently control efficiency, energy density, and cooling.

In short: At this stage, market-ready battery systems are developed; these are precisely assembled, thermally stabilized, and digitally monitorable. They form the heart of modern e-mobility and energy storage solutions and serve as the bridge between materials science and application.

6. System Integration

Here, the manufactured battery modules are combined into intelligent complete systems—in vehicles, data centers, networks, or industrial facilities.

This stage integrates hardware, software, and control systems into a functional energy landscape.

Companies such as $SIE (+0,14%) Siemens (ETR: SIE), Hitachi Energy (privately held, Switzerland/Japan), $ETN (+0,2%) Eaton (NYSE: ETN), $VRT Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), $WRT1V (+0,02%) Wärtsilä (HEL: WRT1V), $SU (-2,1%) Schneider Electric (EPA: SU), and $ABBN (-1,88%) ABB (VTX: ABBN) are developing comprehensive systems for energy flow control, grid stabilization, and digital integration.

Hidden champions such as $PCELL (-4,5%) PowerCell Sweden (STO: PCELL), Volterion (private, Germany), $ADSE (+3,1%) ADS-TEC Energy (NASDAQ: ADSE), AutoGrid Systems (private, U.S.), $EGT Eguana Technologies (TSXV: EGT), $EOSE Eos Energy Enterprises (NASDAQ: EOSE), and Nuvation Energy (private, U.S.) combine battery storage with control electronics, inverters, and AI-based management software. They create modular energy systems that are flexibly scalable and can be deployed to benefit the grid.

In short: This phase sees the emergence of interfaces between technology and the market—systems that not only store electricity but also intelligently control, distribute, and optimize it.

7. Utilization and Application

This is where the battery industry reveals its economic core. In this phase, energy is not only stored but also strategically deployed in mobility, data centers, grids, industry, and private households.

E-Mobility

Batteries are the foundation of electric powertrains. In addition to $TSLA Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA), $1211 (+5,06%) BYD (HKG: 1211), $VOW3 (-0,07%) Volkswagen (ETR: VOW3), $BMW (+0,76%) BMW (ETR: BMW), $MBG (-1,34%) Mercedes-Benz (ETR: MBG), and $NIO NIO (NYSE: NIO) are also part of $STLAM (-4,55%) Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), $LCID Lucid Motors (NASDAQ: LCID), and $RIVN Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN). They are developing their own battery cell chemistries, software, and charging infrastructure.

Hidden Champions such as $VAR1 Varta (ETR: VAR1) and $LECN Leclanché (SWX: LECN) supply modular systems and high-performance cells for specialized applications.

Data Centers and Cloud Infrastructure

The global expansion of AI, cloud, and storage architectures is driving a massive increase in energy consumption. Companies such as $GOOGL (-0,92%) Google (NASDAQ: GOOGL), $MSFT Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), $AMZN (-0,76%) Amazon Web Services (NASDAQ: AMZN), and $ORCL Oracle (NYSE: ORCL) are developing their own energy strategies and software solutions to operate their global data centers more efficiently and with lower CO₂ emissions. Infrastructure partners such as $EQIX Equinix (NASDAQ: EQIX) and $DLR (+1,21%) Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR) are relying on battery and hybrid solutions to ensure grid stability. Technology providers such as $VRT Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), $SU (-2,1%) Schneider Electric (EPA: SU), and $WRT1V (+0,02%) Wärtsilä (HEL: WRT1V) provide energy management, cooling, and hybrid power systems.

Hidden Champions such as AutoGrid Systems—AI-controlled virtual power plants, $ADSE (+3,1%) ADS-TEC Energy (NASDAQ: ADSE)—modular high-performance storage for server farms.

Energy suppliers and grid operators (NRPG)

This is where the transition between generation and storage takes place. Utilities such as $FLNC Fluence Energy (NASDAQ: FLNC), $NEE NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE), $ENEL (+0,17%) Enel (BIT: ENEL), $TTE (+2,47%) TotalEnergies (EPA: TTE), $RWE (-2,33%) RWE (ETR: RWE), and $ORSTED (+1,27%) Ørsted (CPH: ORSTED) are investing heavily in battery storage to stabilize grids and manage demand. They are joined by specialized developers such as $AMRC (-2,94%) Ameresco (NYSE: AMRC) and $AES (+0,22%) AES Corporation (NYSE: AES), which implement hybrid storage and power plant projects.

Hidden Champions such as $STEM Stem Inc. (NYSE: STEM) and GridBeyond (privately held, Ireland) connect these systems via software and enable real-time energy trading.

Industrial and residential storage

Decentralized energy systems are increasingly connecting industry, commercial properties, and private households with storage solutions. Sonnen (privately held, Germany)—a subsidiary of $SHEL (+2,32%) Shell (LON: SHEL) is a leader in home storage and energy communities. E3/DC (privately held, Germany) and $EGT Eguana Technologies (TSXV: EGT) provide modular systems for self-consumption and grid independence. Software providers such as TWAICE (private, Germany) monitor storage status, efficiency, and lifespan using digital twins.

Summary of the Usage Level

This phase integrates technology, infrastructure, and digital management. Whether in electric vehicles, cloud data centers, industrial facilities, or private households, batteries serve as the link between energy generation, consumption, and intelligence. This is where it will be determined which technologies will define energy distribution, efficiency, and autonomy in the long term.

9. Quality & Safety / Materials Technology

$KEYS Keysight Technologies (NYSE: KEYS) – U.S. – A leader in measurement technology, signal processing, and test systems for battery and semiconductor applications

National Instruments (NASDAQ: NATI) – U.S. – Develops modular test and measurement systems; now part of Emerson Electric

$FORM FormFactor (NASDAQ: FORM) – U.S. – Specialist in wafer probing and precision measurements in cell and semiconductor manufacturing

$KULR KULR Technology Group (NYSE: KULR) – USA – Specialist in thermal management and safety systems for lithium-ion batteries. The technology originated in the aerospace industry (NASA) and is now used in energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and recycling processes.

9. Recovery and Recycling

These companies close the loop and ensure the recycling of strategic raw materials.

$LICY Li-Cycle (NYSE: LICY) – Canada – Operates recycling facilities for lithium-ion batteries. Recovery of nickel, cobalt, and lithium using hydrometallurgical technology

Redwood Materials – U.S. (privately held) – Founded by Tesla’s former chief technical officer, JB Straubel. A leader in establishing closed-loop material cycles in the U.S.

Primobius – Germany (Neometals/SMS Group joint venture) – Develops modular recycling plants for battery production in Europe. Focus on industrial scalability

$UMI (-2,67%) Umicore (EBR: UMI) – Belgium - Combines materials production and recycling. A leader in the recovery of valuable metals such as platinum, nickel, and cobalt

Stena Recycling (privately held, Sweden) – One of Europe’s leading players in recycling and the circular economy. Processes industrial waste, electronics, and batteries, recovering valuable metals and materials for reuse

Heraeus (privately held, Germany) – A technology group specializing in precious metal recycling and materials technologies. Recovers platinum, gold, silver, and rare metals from industrial and battery waste and uses them to manufacture new functional materials

Hidden Champions

Tozero – Germany (privately held) – An innovative startup specializing in hydrometallurgical battery recycling. Its goal is the complete recovery of lithium, nickel, and graphite

$AMY (+0%) RecycLiCo (TSXV: AMY) – Canada – Develops chemical processes for the efficient recovery of high-purity battery materials

ACE Green Recycling – Singapore (privately held) – Works on CO₂-neutral recycling processes for lead-acid batteries and lithium systems. Focus on energy efficiency and scalability

Along this chain, a global network of specialists, producers, and integrators is emerging. The greatest growth opportunities lie at the intersections—where chemical expertise, digitalization, and the circular economy converge.

1️⃣4️⃣.Equipment manufacturers at each stage, plus overarching financiers and strategic distributors

⚒️ 1. Raw material extraction – “shovels” = exploration, machinery, plant engineering

Who benefits: Machinery manufacturers, chemical and plant equipment suppliers, raw material financiers

$CAT (-2,11%) Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT) – U.S. – mining equipment, transport vehicles for lithium and nickel mines

$6301 (-0,21%) Komatsu (TYO: 6301) – Japan – heavy mining machinery, particularly in South America and Australia

$SAND (+1,96%) Sandvik (STO: SAND) – Sweden – Drilling and rock-cutting equipment (lithium mines)

$FLS (+1,38%) FLSmidth (CPH: FLS) – Processing plants for nickel and cobalt

$EPI A (+1,23%) Epiroc (STO: EPI-A) – Sweden – Specializes in underground drilling, blasting technology, and automated mining solutions

$WEIR (+0,34%) Weir Group (LSE: WEIR) – United Kingdom – Supplies grinding and pumping technology for ore processing and material transport in mines

Hidden Champions

$ANG (-2,29%) Austin Engineering (ASX: ANG) – Australia – Manufactures mining vehicle components and heavy equipment for open-pit mining

$ORI (-0,69%) Orica (ASX: ORI) – Australia – Leading supplier of industrial explosives and drilling chemicals for exploration and mining

$METSO (+0,37%) Metso Outotec (HEL: METSO) – Finland – Equipment for ore processing and metal recovery

Investors / Funds:

$SPWRC8 BlackRock Natural Resources Fund

$LIT Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF

Sprott Physical Battery Metals Trust – Financing of exploration projects

⚗️ 2. Refining & Materials Chemistry – “Shovels” = Process plants, chemical equipment

Who benefits: Chemical plant manufacturers, specialty chemicals, process engineering

$LIN (+0,26%) Linde (NYSE: LIN) – UK – Gas processing, process plants (e.g., electrolytes, carbon-neutral hydrogen for batteries)

$AI (+0,34%) Air Liquide (EPA: AI) – France – industrial gases, CO₂-free syntheses

$WCH (-4,46%) Wacker Chemie (ETR: WCH) – Germany – Silicon compounds for anodes

$BAS (-0,15%) BASF Engineering Services – Germany – Process design & EPC for cathode production

$TE (+3,11%) Technip Energies (EPA: TE) – France – Engineering solutions for chemical refineries

$ANDR (-0,7%) Andritz AG (VIE: ANDR) – Austria – Machinery and plant manufacturer for chemical processing, filtration, and metal separation

$FLS (+1,38%) FLSmidth (CPH: FLS) – Denmark – Supplies large-scale plants for ore processing and metal recovery with a focus on energy efficiency

$VIE (+0,3%) Veolia Environnement (EPA: VIE) – France – Develops industrial water and waste solutions for metal processing and recycling

Hidden Champions

$PYR (+0,37%) PyroGenesis Canada (TSX: PYR) – Canada – Uses plasma technology to refine metals cleanly and efficiently. A sustainable alternative to traditional high-temperature processes

$MMI Metalo Group (TSXV: MMI) – Canada - Specialist in low-carbon metal refining. Develops energy-efficient processes for converting raw materials into battery-grade metals

Financiers / Strategic Partners:

KfW / EIB / EU Innovation Fund – support materials and recycling projects

Breakthrough Energy Ventures (Gates Fund) – invests in new cathode and anode technologies

🧪 3. Materials Technology & Components – “Tools” = Measurement Technology, Machinery, Software

Who benefits: Measuring instruments, lab automation, software for cell research

$TMO Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE: TMO) – U.S. – Materials analytics

$BRKR (+0,63%) Bruker (NASDAQ: BRKR) – U.S. – spectroscopy & materials characterization

$HEN3 (-0,51%) Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (ETR: HEN3) – Germany – Global supplier of industrial adhesives, sealants, and thermal materials, central to battery and electronics manufacturing

$MMM 3M Company (NYSE: MMM) – U.S. – Supplies high-performance insulation materials, adhesives, and protective coatings for battery cells and modules

$DD (+1,29%) DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (NYSE: DD) – U.S. – Produces polymers, insulating materials, and binders for electrolytes, separators, and cell packaging. Focus on safety and energy efficiency

$AMAT (+0,68%) Applied Materials (NASDAQ: AMAT) – U.S. – Supplier of production and coating equipment for battery and semiconductor manufacturing

Hidden Champions

Bühler Group (privately held, Switzerland) – Manufacturer of precision equipment for powder processing, coating, and material preparation

$AFX (+1,2%) Carl Zeiss Meditec AG (ETR: AFX) – Germany – Leading manufacturer of optical and imaging systems for research, microscopy, and materials analysis. Relevant to cell research and quality control of battery materials

Leica Microsystems (privately held, Germany / part of $DHR (-0,05%) Danaher Corporation, NYSE: DHR – U.S.) – Develops microscopes and imaging systems for materials science and cell analysis. Significant for research and process development in battery cell production

Ionbond (privately held, Switzerland) – A leader in hard coatings for electrodes, contact surfaces, and housings. Extends the service life of critical components

$ENTG Entegris (NASDAQ: ENTG) – USA – Develops specialty chemicals, filtration, and process solutions for ultra-high-purity battery and semiconductor manufacturing

Software & Simulation Providers:

$DSY (+1,1%) Dassault Systèmes (EPA: DSY) – Battery development simulation (CATIA / SIMULIA)

COMSOL AB (privately held, Sweden) – Developer of the multiphysics simulation platform. Enables coupled simulations of electrochemistry, mechanics, and thermodynamics in battery cells and energy systems

🏭 4. Cell & Module Production – “Shovels” = Production Equipment, Robotics, Measurement Technology

Who benefits: Machine builders, automation, quality control

$300450 Wuxi Lead Intelligent (SHE: 300450) – China – Develops automated production lines for cell manufacturing and assembly

Toshiba (TYO: 6502) – Japan – Manufacturer of cells and production systems for energy storage and vehicles

$SIE (+0,14%) Siemens AG (ETR: SIE) – Germany – Supplies digital production and automation software, including “Digital Twin” solutions for battery factories.

KUKA AG (ETR: KU2) – Germany – Robotics and automation expert for battery pack assembly and manufacturing processes

Hidden Champion

Tera Automation (privately held, Italy) – Precision machines for electrode handling and cell stacking

InoBat Auto (privately held, Slovakia) – Modular small-batch cell production with a research focus on material adaptation

Trumpf (privately held, Germany) – A leader in laser welding technology and manufacturing systems for cell housings and battery modules

$M5Z (+0%) Manz AG (ETR: M5Z) – Germany – Specialist in machine and plant engineering for cell and module production. Offers complete production lines for electrodes and cells

$DUE (+0,83%) Dürr AG (ETR: DUE) – Germany – Manufacturer of coating and drying systems for battery electrodes. Also supplies cleanroom systems for cell production

Bosch Rexroth (private, Germany) - A leader in production control, linear technology, and battery system integration for automated production lines.

Financing & Infrastructure

EU IPCEI Battery Initiative (Europe) – A European funding program worth billions aimed at strengthening European battery production and research.

Capricorn Partners (private, Belgium) - Venture capital investor focused on cleantech, deep tech, and battery projects in Europe. (Hidden Champion)

InnoEnergy (private, EU / Netherlands) - An EU-backed innovation network for financing and scaling battery startups such as Northvolt or Verkor. (Hidden Champion)

Swedish Growth Fund (private, Sweden) – A government-backed fund that invests in Swedish technology companies and battery manufacturing (Northvolt, Polarium). (Hidden Champion)

⚙️ 5. System Integration & Energy Management – “Components” = Power Electronics, Software, Grid Control

Who benefits: Hardware and software providers that control the energy system

$ABBN (-1,88%) ABB Robotics (VTX: ABBN) – Switzerland – Automation systems and robots for assembly, testing, and quality management

KUKA (ETR: KU2) – Germany – Leading provider of robotics and automation solutions for battery pack assembly

$ENR (-2,58%) Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR) – Germany – Grid integration, medium-voltage connections

$ETN (+0,2%) Eaton (NYSE: ETN) – Ireland – Grid protection, smart power distribution

$SU (-2,1%) Schneider Electric (EPA: SU) – France – BMS & EcoStruxure energy platform

$FLNC Fluence (NASDAQ: FLNC) – U.S. – Battery storage control (software + hardware)

Hidden Champions

Fronius International (privately held, Austria) – Specialist in welding technology and power supply systems for e-mobility

Comau (privately held, Italy) – Automation specialist for battery pack assembly, robotics, and testing systems. Close partnerships with automakers

Teamtechnik (privately held, Germany) – Develops automated test systems and production lines for battery and energy modules

Reis Robotics (privately held, Germany) – Specialist in precision robotics, welding, and joining processes in battery manufacturing

Software / AI:

TWAICE (privately held, Germany) – Offers a software platform for analyzing and optimizing battery lifecycles. Focus on condition monitoring, aging modeling, and second-life applications

AutoGrid Systems (privately held, U.S.) – AI-based software for energy management and grid optimization. Connects battery storage systems, solar farms, and wind farms to form virtual power plants

GridBeyond (private, Ireland) – Develops an AI platform for real-time grid control and energy trading optimization for industry and utilities

⚡ 6. Usage / Applications – “Shovels” = Charging Infrastructure, Power Management, Data Centers

Who benefits: Infrastructure, cloud, and network operators

$CHPT (+1,23%) ChargePoint Holdings (NYSE: CHPT) – U.S. – Operates one of the largest networks of electric vehicle charging stations in North America and Europe. Focus on software and infrastructure management

$ABBN (-1,88%) ABB Ltd. (VTX: ABBN) – Switzerland – Global energy and technology group, a leader in charging infrastructure, grid management, and industrial automation

$SIE (+0,14%) Siemens AG (ETR: SIE) – Germany – Technology and industrial conglomerate, strong in power distribution, automation, and digital grid systems

$VRT Vertiv Holdings Co. (NYSE: VRT) – U.S. – Leading provider of power, cooling, and infrastructure solutions for data centers and telecommunications

$NVDA (-0,41%) NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ: NVDA) – U.S. – Develops AI chips and data center architectures that optimize energy efficiency and performance management

$INTC (+2,73%) Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC) – U.S. – Manufacturer of energy-efficient processors and data center platforms, with an increasing focus on AI workloads

$AMD (+2,31%) Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ: AMD) – U.S. – Manufactures high-performance processors and GPUs with a focus on improving efficiency in data center applications

Hidden Champions

$WBX (+0,42%) Wallbox N.V. (NYSE: WBX) – Spain – Manufacturer of smart chargers and energy management systems for electric vehicles and building integration

$SMCI (-1,87%) Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMCI) – U.S. – Leading provider of energy-efficient server and data center architectures for AI and cloud infrastructure

$ALFEN (-0,42%) Alfen N.V. (AMS: ALFEN) – Netherlands – Specialist in smart grids and battery storage. Strong focus on European electromobility

Financiers / Operators:

$EQIX Equinix Inc. (NASDAQ: EQIX) – U.S. – The world’s largest data center operator. Increasingly investing in its own energy storage and microgrid solutions to improve efficiency and stabilize the power supply

$DLR (+1,21%) Digital Realty Trust Inc. (NYSE: DLR) – U.S. – Operates global cloud and colocation data centers. Focuses on integrating battery storage, renewable energy, and energy management systems

$BEP.UN Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (NYSE: BEP / TSX: BEP.UN) – Canada – Invests globally in renewable energy, storage technologies, and hydrogen infrastructure. A major financier and operator of hybrid energy systems

♻️ 7. Recycling & Second Life – “Shovels” = recycling technology, sorting machines, chemicals

Who benefits: Recycling plant manufacturers, software, and logistics

$ANDR (-0,7%) ANDRITZ AG (VIE: ANDR) – Austria - Manufacturer of mechanical and chemical processing plants for recycling and battery metal recovery

$NDA (+0,57%) Aurubis AG (ETR: NDA) – Germany – Europe’s largest copper producer and recycler. Entering the battery metal recovery sector to close raw material loops

$UMI (-2,67%) Umicore SA (EBR: UMI) – Belgium – Fully integrated materials and recycling group with closed-loop metal cycles

$LICY Li-Cycle Holdings Corp. (NYSE: LICY) – Canada – Operates hydrometallurgical recycling facilities for lithium-ion batteries

Hidden Champions

Tozero (privately held, Germany) – A startup with innovative hydrometallurgical technology for recovering lithium, nickel, and graphite

$AMY (+0%) RecycLiCo (TSXV: AMY) – Canada – Chemical processing of used batteries. Achieves high purity and low energy consumption

ACE Green Recycling (privately held, Singapore) – CO₂-neutral recycling processes for lithium and lead-acid batteries. Focus on energy efficiency and modular plants

Redwood Materials (private, U.S.) – A startup specializing in battery recycling and secondary raw material production with a focus on closed-loop supply chains

SMS Group (privately held, Germany) – Develops smelting plants and hydrometallurgical systems for metal and battery recycling

Funding Sources:

EU Circular Economy Fund (EU) – Supports European recycling and resource efficiency projects

Breakthrough Energy Ventures (U.S.) – Bill Gates’ climate fund, invests in new recycling technologies

EIT RawMaterials (EU) – EU initiative to support raw materials startups along the battery value chain

💰 8. Overarching Financiers & Strategic Fund Distributors

These players provide capital, technology, or infrastructure to all stages:

$BLK (-1,38%) BlackRock Inc. (NYSE: BLK) – U.S. – The world’s largest asset manager, investing in battery, raw materials, and energy technologies via thematic ETFs

Vanguard Group (private, U.S.) – One of the largest global fund providers, with passive investments in the energy and tech sectors

State Street Global Advisors (private, U.S.) – Manages institutional funds, including those focused on clean tech and infrastructure themes

SoftBank Vision Fund (private, Japan) – A private equity fund with investments in energy, battery, and robotics technologies

Temasek Holdings (private, Singapore) – A sovereign wealth fund focused on sustainable energy and infrastructure projects

$GS Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE: GS) – U.S. – Offers investments in energy storage and infrastructure projects through CleanTech and sustainable finance funds

$MS Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) – U.S. – Global financial services firm with dedicated funds for sustainable infrastructure and battery projects

Global X ETFs (U.S.) – Thematic ETF provider focused on lithium & battery tech, clean energy, and critical materials

$IVZ (-0,9%) Invesco (NYSE: IVZ) – U.S. – Asset manager with strategic holdings in CleanTech and infrastructure ETFs

$BEP.UN Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) – Canada – Invests in clean energy, battery storage, and hybrid power plants worldwide

Hidden Champions

Khosla Ventures (private, U.S.) – Venture capital firm focused on clean tech, storage technologies, and materials innovation

InnoEnergy (private, EU / Netherlands) – EU-funded innovation network that supports startups along the European battery value chain

1️⃣5️⃣.Interconnections – Hybrid Energy Systems for Data Centers, Industry, and Transportation

Hybrid energy systems combine different energy sources—such as batteries, fuel cells, photovoltaics, wind power, and grid power—into a single, intelligently controlled system. The goal: maximum efficiency, stability, and reliability of supply with minimal emissions.

These systems are at the heart of Energy Infrastructure 4.0. They combine storage, control, and utilization on a single platform. What matters most is no longer which energy source is used, but how it is integrated.

1. Data Centers – Energy Efficiency Through Storage and Grid Intelligence

Core idea: Data centers are continuous consumers of energy. Hybrid systems combining battery storage, fuel cells, and grid management offset peak loads and power servers during grid outages without the need for diesel generators.

Technological integration:

Lithium- or sodium-ion batteries for short-term load peaks

Hydrogen fuel cells for emergency and long-term power supply

Intelligent energy management software (EMS) for load balancing

Relevant companies:

$VRT Vertiv (NYSE: VRT) – U.S. – Power and cooling infrastructure for data centers

$SU (-2,1%) Schneider Electric (EPA: SU) – France – Digital power distribution, smart grids

$ABBN (-1,88%) ABB (VTX: ABBN) – Switzerland – Energy automation, modular microgrids

$EQIX Equinix (NASDAQ: EQIX) – U.S. – Operator; integrates battery storage and fuel cells

$NVDA (-0,41%) NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) – U.S. – AI-based load control and optimization

2. Industry – Hybrid Power Systems and Load Management

Core Idea: Energy-intensive industries use combined systems comprising storage, renewable sources, and hydrogen to achieve grid independence and cost efficiency.

Technological Integration:

Battery storage (Li-ion, sodium, solid-state) for production peaks

Hydrogen for long-term storage

Heat recovery + grid control via AI

Relevant Companies:

$SIE (+0,14%) Siemens (ETR: SIE) – Germany – Industrial microgrids, energy management

$WRT1V (+0,02%) Wärtsilä (HEL: WRT1V) – Finland – Hybrid power plants for industry and island grids

$TTE (+2,47%) TotalEnergies (EPA: TTE) – France – Integration of solar, batteries, and hydrogen in industrial parks

AutoGrid (private, U.S.) – AI platform for energy management (Hidden Champion)

$ALFEN (-0,42%) Alfen (AMS: ALFEN) – Netherlands – Smart grid and storage systems.(Hidden Champion)

3. Transportation – Energy Infrastructure for New Mobility

Core idea: The transportation sector is increasingly becoming electric, but with a variety of energy sources. Hybrid infrastructures combine battery, hydrogen, and grid systems for road, rail, and aviation.

Technological connections:

Battery swap stations and fast-charging hubs

Hydrogen refueling stations + local electrolysis

Sector coupling between transportation, electricity, and heating

Relevant companies:

$TSLA Tesla Energy (NASDAQ: TSLA) – U.S. – Energy storage and charging infrastructure

$NIO NIO Inc. (NYSE: NIO) – China – Battery-swapping networks

$005380 Hyundai Motor (KRX: 005380) – South Korea – Combination of battery and fuel cell propulsion

$BLDP (-1,49%) Ballard Power (NASDAQ: BLDP) – Canada – Fuel cells for commercial vehicles

$NEL (-0,52%) Nel ASA (OSL: NEL) – Norway – Hydrogen electrolysis and refueling systems

4. Interconnection Level – Energy System 4.0

At this level, batteries, fuel cells, renewable sources, and digital control converge into a shared flow of data and energy. The key lies in sector coupling: electricity, heat, mobility, and data share a dynamic grid.

Technology Platforms & Drivers:

$ENR (-2,58%) Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR) – Hybrid grid architectures, Power-to-X

Hitachi Energy (privately held, CH/JP) – Control systems and grid stabilization

$ETN (+0,2%) Eaton (NYSE: ETN) – Power distribution, load management

$ADSE (+3,1%) ADS-TEC Energy (NASDAQ: ADSE) – Fast-charging and storage systems. (Hidden Champion)

After examining the value chains and cross-sector applications, I’d now like to show you the whole picture in a simplified system diagram. The diagram visualizes the energy flow of a hybrid energy system: Renewable sources feed electricity into battery storage and fuel cells, which in turn supply consumers such as data centers, industry, and transportation. An AI control system connects all levels into a self-regulating, data-driven循环 system—the foundation of Energy Infrastructure 4.0.

Structure:

1. Energy Sources (top left)

Sun ☀️ → Photovoltaics

Wind 🌬 → Wind turbines

Grid power ⚡ → Feed-in from the public power grid

Hydrogen (H₂) → Produced by electrolysis from surplus energy

2. Conversion and Storage (center of the diagram)

Battery systems (lithium-sodium, solid-state) – short-term energy storage

Fuel cells / hydrogen tanks – Long-term storage and reconversion to electricity

Hybrid control / energy management system – AI-based control of energy flow

➜ Bidirectional arrows between battery ↔ fuel cell ↔ grid symbolize energy exchange and load management

3. Consumers (bottom right)

Data centers – Constant base load, backed up by storage and fuel cells

Industry – Flexible load control, use of hybrid energy for stabilization

Transportation sector – e-mobility, fast-charging hubs, hydrogen logistics

4. Data and Control Layer (above the center)

AI platforms (e.g., AutoGrid, TWAICE, NVIDIA)

Cloud integration for real-time data

Control of energy flow, CO₂ emissions, and costs

5. Feedback (below / base of the system)

Recycling → Raw material recovery → Cell production

Circular arrow visually leads back to the energy sources – symbolizing a closed-loop value chain

The hybrid energy flow illustrates how electricity, hydrogen, data, and raw materials reinforce one another in a circular, data-driven network. This is the foundation of Energy Infrastructure 4.0, which is dynamic, decentralized, and interconnected across sectors.

1️⃣6️⃣.Energy for humanoid robots: the next evolutionary stage of application

The next industrial revolution is no longer taking place solely in data centers or vehicles, but in the convergence of humans, machines, and energy. Humanoid robots symbolize this transition. These are systems that must think, act, and be self-sufficient. Their energy source is what makes them functional in the first place.

This is where battery technology, microgrid systems, and smart energy distribution intersect directly with artificial intelligence. Power density, longevity, and energy efficiency determine how autonomously these machines can operate. Whether in industry, healthcare, logistics, or everyday life, the stability of their energy supply is becoming a strategic factor for entire value chains. Next-generation batteries, solid-state systems, and mini fuel cells form the foundation for this. Companies that develop or supply these technologies are not only creating products but also building the infrastructure for a new form of intelligence that is energy-independent, networked, and scalable.

16.1 Technical Basis: What a Humanoid Really Needs in Terms of Energy

A humanoid robot is, at its core, a mobile energy system. It must walk, grasp, lift, balance, communicate, see, think, and remain safe while doing so. All of this requires a constant supply of energy.

Key requirements: high energy density with low weight, short-term power spikes, thermal stability, energy recovery, and long operating times without manual recharging. Currently, the energy requirements of humanoid robots range from 500 watts to 2 kilowatts, with energy storage capacities of 1 to 5 kilowatt-hours. A system is only considered suitable for industrial use if it can operate autonomously for several hours and recharge itself or swap modules.

16.2 Storage Status Today and in Five Years

Today:

Lithium-ion systems (NMC, NCA) dominate due to their high energy density.

LFP cells excel in safety and lifespan.

In five years:

Silicon anodes will increase energy density and charging speed.

Partially and fully solid-state batteries will improve safety and stability.

Combinations of batteries and fuel cells will emerge for continuous-load applications.

As a result, the robotics energy market is shifting toward modular, interchangeable high-performance cells with active thermal management and smart controls.

16.3 Industry Landscape

A. Cells and High Energy Density

$AMPX Amprius (NYSE: AMPX) – U.S. High-energy-density silicon anodes, ideal for robotics and drones

$ENVX (+10,53%) Enovix (NASDAQ: ENVX) – USA 3D cell architecture, compact and capable of fast charging

$QS QuantumScape (NYSE: QS) – U.S. Develops solid-state cells with ceramic electrolytes

$SLDP Solid Power (NASDAQ: SLDP) – U.S. Solid-state electrolytes for safe, high-performance cells

Sila Nanotechnologies (private, U.S.) Silicon anode materials for lighter systems

B. Battery Pack Architecture and Integration

$TSLA Tesla Energy (NASDAQ: TSLA) – USA Vertically integrated battery packs including BMS

$NIO NIO Inc. (NYSE: NIO / HKG: 9866) – China Battery swap systems for modular power supply

$LECN Leclanché (SWX: LECN) – Switzerland Modular packs for industry and logistics

C. Actuators and Drive Mechanisms

$6324 (+0,04%) Harmonic Drive Systems (TYO: 6324) – Japan Precision gearboxes for humanoid joints

$6268 (-0,43%) Nabtesco (TYO: 6268) – Japan: Cycloidal gearboxes for high loads and stability

Maxon (privately held, Switzerland): High-performance, high-efficiency motors

D. Power Electronics and Control

$IFX (-2,73%) Infineon Technologies (ETR: IFX) – Germany Power semiconductors for motor control and power distribution

$STM STMicroelectronics (EPA: STM) – Switzerland / France Sensors and energy controllers

$TXN Texas Instruments (NASDAQ: TXN) – U.S. BMS components and cell monitoring

E. Charging, Power Supply, and Infrastructure

$ADSE (+3,1%) ADS-TEC Energy (NASDAQ: ADSE) – Germany High-performance storage and fast-charging units

Wiferion (privately held, Germany) Inductive charging for autonomous systems

$ALFEN (-0,42%) Alfen (AMS: ALFEN) – Netherlands: Smart grids and charging infrastructure for robotics and industry

F. Control, Fleet Management, and Energy Intelligence

TWAICE (privately held, Germany) Software for battery health and lifespan prediction

AutoGrid (privately held, U.S.) AI-based platform for energy distribution and load control

$NVDA (-0,41%) NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) – U.S. Computing platforms for real-time control and energy management

16.4 Who Has the Most Potential

In the short term: Harmonic Drive Systems, Nabtesco, Maxon—because every humanoid robot needs precise, efficient joints.

Medium term: Amprius, Enovix, Sila, QuantumScape, Solid Power—they increase energy density and operational reliability, the key criteria for autonomy.

System-wide: NVIDIA, AutoGrid, TWAICE – because the future lies not only in storage but also in the intelligent control of energy flow.

16.5 Practical Blueprint – Energy Stack of a Humanoid Robot

Energy Storage: Lightweight, high-energy battery module with active thermal management, based on NMC or silicon.

Drive: BLDC motors with harmonic or cycloidal gearboxes, integrated regenerative braking. Power electronics: Inverters and DC/DC converters from Infineon or STMicro, BMS from Texas Instruments.

Charging Infrastructure: Quick-swap packs, inductive intermediate charging with ADS-TEC or Wiferion.

Intelligence: Status diagnostics via TWAICE, energy coordination via AutoGrid, computational control via NVIDIA.

A stack like this not only makes humanoid robots operational but also economically viable. It’s no longer just about robotics—it’s about energy expertise. Whoever masters this stack controls not only the machine but also the business case behind it.

1️⃣7️⃣.Takeaway

The battery industry has long since evolved from a standalone solution into a multifaceted ecosystem in which materials, technologies, data, and energy flows are intertwined. Hybrid energy systems that combine batteries, fuel cells, and renewable sources are no longer a vision but a reality, evident in data centers, industrial parks, and transportation systems around the world. What matters most is no longer just how energy is generated or stored, but how it is intelligently controlled and integrated into existing grids. This is precisely where the real added value lies: in the ability to synchronize energy flows, data systems, and capital flows. Perhaps this is the point at which it will be decided in the future who will shape true energy autonomy—those who produce energy, or those who can control it precisely?

1️⃣8️⃣.Sources & data used:

International Energy Agency (IEA) – Global EV & Battery Outlook 2024

BloombergNEF – Battery Supply Chain & Energy Storage Report

McKinsey & Company – Battery Value Chain 2030

Fraunhofer ISI – Energy System Analysis: Germany & the EU 2024

Company Reports & Investor Relations:

CATL, Tesla, Northvolt, Siemens Energy, Hitachi Energy

Manz AG, Vulcan Energy, Li-Cycle, Umicore, Albemarle

Market Analyses: Benchmark Minerals Intelligence, S&P Global, Reuters Energy Desk

Research Sources: IEA Hydrogen Roadmap, EU Strategic Raw Materials Act, Battery Passport Initiative (Global Battery Alliance)

Images:

Illustrative image — JLStock / Shutterstock.com

Photo: dpa

https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.Zs6cG53hAFkOB4TXG0psVgHaDR?pid=Api&P=0&h=180

https://www.bmwgroup.com/content/dam/grpw/websites/bmwgroup_com/News/2024/1280x854_batterie_und_charging_V1.png

Wow, I'm really surprised! While my favorite, DuPont, came up empty-handed, ASML was the clear winner in my stock selection🤔.

An analysis of the key metrics shows that ASML is extremely strong financially:

* Higher free cash flow

* Higher EPS

* Better margins across the board

Is it because of brand recognition? DuPont $DD (+1,29%) also has very strong fundamentals compared to its peers.

I guess I’ll have to take a step back and rethink my choice. 😉 Thanks for your votes! I’ll probably $ASML (+0,71%) and to increase my position $DHL (+0,4%)

Weekly Review: September 28

New all-time highs for the DAX, Dow Jones, S&P 500, gold, GE Vernova, Meta, Netflix, SAP, Vistra Corp, and Walmart 👑🥇 $LYY7 (-1,06%)
$CSPX (-0,22%)
$ABX
$GEV (-1,14%)
$META (-0,39%)
$NFLX (-1,61%)
$SAP (-0,68%)
$VST (-0,02%)
$WMT (-0,64%)

New 52-week highs for 3M, Air Products, Alibaba, Arista Networks, Barrick Gold, Bank of Nova Scotia, BlackRock, Caterpillar, Constellation Energy, DuPont, HSBC, Infosys, Live Nation, McDonald’s, Palantir, PayPal, Public Storage, Royal Bank of Canada, Royal Caribbean, Sea Ltd., Spotify, Tanger 💵📈 $PLTR (+0,42%)
$9988 (-0,98%)
$BABA (-1,82%)
$BLK
$CAT (-2,11%)
$BNS (-0,42%)
$STZ (-0,4%)
$DD (+1,29%)
$HSBA (-0,73%)
$HSBC (-0,92%)
$INFY
$LYV (-0,48%)
$MCD (-1,4%)$PUB
$PUB
$RCL (-3,44%)
$SEA
$SKT (+0,71%)

Bitcoin hits a new 1-month high, up 22% in three weeks since its low on September 7—from $52k to $66k—and up 150% in 12 months 📉📈 $BTC (-0,66%)

PayPal’s own stablecoin, PYUSD (crypto), is growing rapidly and now ranks 95th among the top 100 cryptos by market capitalization 💰 $PYPL (-0,46%)

Palantir joins the S&P 500 on Monday #PLTRgang 🤜🤛👊✊ $PLTR (+0,42%)

Uber is partnering with Google’s Waymo (Alphabet) and plans to offer robotaxis for an additional fee 🚗🤖 $UBER (-2,53%)
$GOOGL (-0,92%)
$GOOG (-0,82%)

Following the ECB and the Fed, China has also fired up the money printer *brrr brrr*, plus a massive economic stimulus package is on the way; Chinese stocks are having their best week in 10 years, and auto and luxury stocks with China exposure are rising as a result 🖨🇨🇳 $MC (-1,54%)
$P911 (-3,01%)
$BMW (+0,76%)
$MBG (-1,34%)

The CEOs of AMD and Nvidia confirm that demand for AI chips remains high 🧠🤖; the Nvidia CEO says he won’t sell any more of his own shares for the time being. $AMD (+2,31%)
$NVDA (-0,41%)

The upcoming PlayStation 6 will again feature an AMD chip, but AMD will be exiting the high-end graphics card market for PC gamers and will instead focus on scaling up its presence in the mid-range and entry-level segments. Nvidia would then have a monopoly 🎮 $SONY (-0,86%)
$6758 (-0,78%)

Super Micro is under suspicion of financial fraud. According to an insider, the U.S. Department of Justice is apparently already investigating; the stock price has fallen 62% in three months 🔍👮 $SMCI

AI requires a lot of electricity, and nuclear power plants are being reactivated in the U.S. In Germany, it’s the other way around due to the world’s most foolish energy policy. U.S. utility stocks, uranium mining stocks, and ETFs are rising. ⚛️⚡️ (see Podcast Episode 57, “Buy High. Sell Low,” pinned to my profile at ganznoben) $URNM
$URA (+0,23%)
$UEC (-0,75%)

Micron reports strong quarterly results and a +13% stock price gain; semiconductor stocks are rallying 💻📈 $MU (+3,65%)

Costco—mixed quarterly results; EPS beats estimates but revenue is worse than expected; stock falls slightly 🛒 $COST (-1,07%)

McDonald’s raises quarterly dividend by 6% to $1.77. The dividend has been increased for 48 consecutive years since the first payout in 1976. 🍟🍔 $MCD (-1,4%)

Investigation launched against Visa 💳 and SAP 💻 in the U.S. over alleged price-fixing $V (-0,95%)
$SAP (-0,68%)

Oil prices fall again; Shell & Co. heading toward a 1-year low 🛢⛽️ $SHEL (+2,32%)
$GB00B03MM408
$RDS.A

Meta to release Quest 3s VR headset for €330 starting Oct. 15, 2024 📱👓

Intel launches the “Gaudi 3” AI accelerator as an alternative to Nvidia’s H100. IBM, Google, and Dell are the first customers. 🧠 $INTC (+2,73%)

U.S. national debt climbs above $35 trillion for the first time 🖨💵

Ubisoft stock plummets due to the delay of “Assassin’s Creed: Shadows,” with a -70% one-year performance 🎮📉 $UBI (-6,77%)

DHL raises its outlook and growth forecast through 2030 and will increase letter postage rates by 10.5% in Germany starting in 2025 📦✉️📯 $DHL (+0,4%)

BASF is struggling with high energy prices and weak demand; plant closures loom and the dividend is being cut 🇩🇪📉 $BAS (-0,15%)

Adidas (+28%) has significantly outperformed Nike (-18%) since the start of the year ⚽️🏀👟 $ADS (-1,12%)
$NKE (-1,45%)

Takeover speculation at Commerzbank involving Italy’s Unicredit continues 🏦🇮🇹🇩🇪 $CBK (+1,49%)
$UCG (+0,34%)

Jefferies issued a “buy” recommendation for BioNTech and sees the BNT327 cancer antibody as a potential massive revenue driver. 👨‍⚕️⚕️💊 $DE000A0V9BC4

Mutares down 14% as short seller Gotham City levels serious allegations against the SDAX-listed company: pyramid scheme, accounting fraud, and a circular business model 🔍👮 $MUX (+3,01%)

>> If you want to read a recap like this every week, leave a like and subscribe. What important news did I miss? 👍❤️

Spinning the speculation carousel. 💸

The outlook is very bleak for Germany’s energy-intensive industry, but there’s one company in the sector whose decline really bothers me the most. That’s why I think it could soon be acquired, given its now-low market capitalization.

I’d like to outline a few plausible reasons why I think this and why I generally believe it’s significantly undervalued.

The company in question is Lanxess $LXS (-1,41%) .

Lanxess was the spin-off of the plastics division of the Bayer Group. It has been listed independently on the stock exchange since 2005.

It has evolved from a struggling subsidiary into a successful and highly competitive company with enormous potential for future growth.

Here are a few reasons why the stock is significantly undervalued.

1. The Market Segment

Broadly speaking, Lanxess is part of the chemical industry, yet this sector includes segments with margins just as strong as those in which Lanxess operates.

The company supplies the key segments of:

• High-Performance Materials, including synthetic rubber and advanced intermediates
• Specialty Additives
• Consumer Products

The fact is: You come into contact with products from Lanxess’s brand portfolio every day.

Here are a few examples:

• Kalaguard – preservatives for hygiene products and cosmetics
• Lewatit – ion exchange resins for water treatment in both small- and large-scale applications (such resins are typically found in every household appliance that uses water, such as dishwashers)
• Mesamoll – a plasticizer for plastics. Found primarily in durable applications, such as waterbeds, and thus high-margin—or, for the consumer, “expensive.”
• Saltidin – the active ingredient par excellence for “mosquito or tick sprays”
• Oxone – the chlorine-free pool cleaner for your home swimming pool.

Net margins of ~15% are not uncommon here; in fact, they’re more like the average.

2. Competition

In most segments of its chemical products, Lanxess is either the market leader or is clearly competing head-to-head with the market leader, BASF $BAS (-0,15%) and challenges the Ludwigshafen-based company right down to its very core.

3. Production Sites

Lanxess is also globally diversified in its choice of locations and is thus linked to different markets in terms of its cost structure. A decline in the German production sites would, roughly speaking, be devastating, but not the end of the company.

However, it must be acknowledged that most of the sites in Germany have definitely already paid for themselves and therefore represent the group’s cash cow. In the current situation, too many factors are converging.

• The decline in consumer spending
• High costs and, in some cases, bankruptcies among downstream manufacturers
• Competitive pressure
• The European market being flooded with Asian products

4. Management

Lanxess’s management under Matthias Zachert is definitely a role model for the German industrial landscape. It identifies promising market opportunities early on and strategically steers the group toward high-margin niches while keeping spending within reasonable limits.

It is no coincidence that Buffett also holds a 5% stake in the company.

5. Takeover Theory

The following, of course, reflects only my own thoughts and is therefore pure speculation.

Since the stock market crash of 2022, German industrial stocks have failed to recover. The current economic environment is simply too poor. There is a complete lack of political support measures. Various industry associations are increasingly criticizing the federal government’s economic policy, whereas state governments have already recognized the gravity of the situation and are pledging binding support to companies.

Even during the Covestro takeover bid, it was clear that foreign investors were keeping a close eye on German industry to take advantage of the low stock prices.

Another likely example, given its unique brand portfolio, is Lanxess.

The company’s enterprise value is expected to be valued at just under €5 billion in 2023, while revenue prospects continue to rise. Its market capitalization, however, is currently valued at just under €2 billion. However, a takeover offer of approximately €5 billion is estimated to be acceptable. The second factor, on the other hand, will be up to management, but with the right offer, they certainly wouldn’t turn it down.  

But who would be interested in this?

It’s reasonable to assume that other Middle Eastern emirates and funds will launch a major push into Europe—and Germany in particular—to expand their economic and political influence here and accelerate the shift away from oil. With a sustainable portfolio like Lanxess’s, this would be an ideal complement.

But U.S. corporations, such as Dow $DOW (+2,82%) or DuPont $DD (+1,29%) could boost their dominance in the plastics markets and incorporate the innovative strength of the German chemical industry into their corporate structure. Antitrust concerns raised by competitors, however, would pose a challenge. Yet even here, workarounds could be found through equity investments or concessions to competitors, similar to the Linde $LIN (+0,26%) -Praxair merger.

What do you think about this?

Water – Chemistry in Everyday Life

Today’s topic has been in the spotlight, largely due to Nestlé $NESN (-1,68%) has been in the spotlight over the past few months. But even on hot summer days, there’s constant discussion about this essential element of life and the business behind it.

What’s the story with Nestlé?

Nestlé is almost constantly the subject of criticism. I expressly ask that you refrain from commenting on the company’s activities or expressing personal opinions in the comments section below this post. The “Nestlé Waters” division operates production facilities in approximately 34 countries, for example, for the bottled water brand “Pure Life.” The criticism centers on production sites in areas where water is traditionally scarce, and where pumping further lowers the groundwater level. I’ll leave it open as to whether Nestlé should bear primary blame in this regard. In any case, it’s important to keep in mind that water licenses are officially sold to Nestlé in all of these countries. Nevertheless, some YouTubers have now realized that they can generate a lot of attention—and thus money—by denouncing international corporations. I hope, at least, that they’ll keep this in mind in the future when they’re enjoying their Wagner pizza or KitKat during live streams. Otherwise, that would amount to a double standard…

Whatever one’s stance on the matter may be. There is certainly a risk of nationalization in the event of water shortages at private water utilities. For that reason, I would generally rule out investing in such companies. However, the private sector is indispensable when it comes to drinking water treatment. The individual products have such a wide range of applications that they cannot be used specifically for water.

But what is the situation in Germany?

Based on the Food Act, Germany has the Drinking Water Ordinance. The ordinance’s goal is to protect human health and ensure quality and purity. Since the 2012 update, it has also addressed issues related to Legionella. Water utilities are responsible for compliance.

The details are defined more precisely in the annexes to the Drinking Water Ordinance itself. https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/trinkwv_2001/BJNR095910001.html

But how do I go about making water usable?

Of course, this depends primarily on your region. Water always falls into different quality classes and must be treated accordingly. According to the Federal Environment Agency, just under 63% of drinking water is sourced from groundwater. However, there are significant differences, particularly when comparing the east and west. The unregulated and reckless planned economy of the former GDR has left its mark on the environment even today. However, there is generally significant contamination along the lines of major industrial centers. While the Saale, Oder, Ruhr, and Ems rivers in particular bear the marks of industrialization, the soils surrounding the chemical industrial sites in central Germany remain severely degraded. I have drawn these findings from the Water and Soil Atlas.

But why this lengthy introduction?

Both the air and the soil contain countless contaminants and even toxic particles. Rain washes these away, causing them to seep into the soil and ultimately into the groundwater.

As a result, we must now find suitable methods to maintain the quality of our drinking water.

We therefore have the option of selectively removing these substances from the water using mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods.

How does that work?

Due to differences in regional water quality, drinking water treatment must, of course, always be considered on a case-by-case basis. Nevertheless, the first step generally involves chemical treatment with ozone. Through mechanical separation stages—such as sedimentation and filtration—as well as chemical separation processes involving flocculation and pH regulation, the treated drinking water enters the public water supply. The authorities regularly take samples, which are then tested in independent laboratories.

But who actually benefits from drinking water treatment?

From a personal perspective, I view the plant as a private drinking water producer, such as Nestlé or Danone, $BN (-0,03%) as risky. There is too great a risk of being criticized in the public eye, which makes it all the more likely that bottled water sales could be halted. Furthermore, especially in countries experiencing water shortages, one can certainly expect the nationalization of production and treatment facilities.

Beyond that, there are lucrative and promising opportunities to invest in suppliers.

An investment in drinking water treatment is inevitably linked to wastewater treatment as well.

The most prominent private-sector players in this field are American Water Works $AWK (+0,02%) , known as the “Dividend King.” Its direct competitor—if one can even call it competition in geographical terms—is Essential Utilities $WTRG (-0,31%) , as well as United Utilities $UU. (-0,14%) in the United Kingdom.

Incidentally, Veolia $VIE (+0,3%) , with its subsidiary Veolia Water, holds a dominant position. It holds countless stakes in municipal utilities and water companies. According to its own website, the company supplies approximately 5 million people in Germany with drinking water and treats their wastewater.

Even beyond direct drinking water treatment, there are highly lucrative suppliers of drinking water solutions and quality assurance services. The best-known example is probably Xylem $XYL (-0,36%) . In addition to fluid technology—which includes pump manufacturing and other equipment—the analytics division is a bright spot for investors. Its broad portfolio covers the entire spectrum of water analytics. Thus, investors benefit not only from municipal water systems but, above all, from industrial customers who are subject to regulatory requirements. It is nearly impossible to identify a direct competitor with such a broad presence in this segment.

If one were to try nonetheless, KSB’s pump division $KSB (-1,21%) is a prime example in Europe. In the U.S., however, IDEX $IEX (+1,09%) can offer an alternative in the field of technical pumps.

Several companies have also specialized in the field of chemical water and wastewater treatment.

Ecolab $ECL (-1,64%) , better known for cleaning and disinfecting agents, has been owned by Nalco Water since 2011. Its focus here is on water and wastewater treatment additives, which are also integral to any drinking water treatment process. Notable among these are slime inhibitors for biocides and Legionella, as well as corrosion inhibitors and hardness stabilizers.

Another notable competitor is DuPont $DD (+1,29%) , specifically its “Water & Protection” division. Its focus is on special resins that can adsorb and filter specific substances from the water. Depending on the application, this extends into the nanofiltration and ultrafiltration ranges. Ion exchangers can also be used to ensure a higher level of water purity.

Have you used water today? If so, you’ve probably already come into contact with one of these products.

How Penguins Revolutionized Modern Agriculture.

Hello, dear community,

Thank you so much for the great feedback on my last post. I hope your oven held up well during the practical tests.

For those of you who want to explore new horizons with your oven, here’s the link to the post I mentioned:

https://getqu.in/2A360BDV8GYN/n12zGfGeeF/

Just a thought-provoking prompt, since I’ll be running out of topics myself in a few weeks.

What topics in the fields of industry, energy, or chemistry do you, as investors, tend to question most often?

Here’s a topic close to my heart: “ammonia.” I hope you enjoy it.

Why Ammonia Is the Better Alternative to “Green” Hydrogen.

1. Significance and Background:

Ammonia is one of the most widely produced chemicals in the world. Researchers Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch called their process “bread from air”—a process that continues to shape the world today: ammonia synthesis.

Amid the competition for fertilizers during the Industrial Revolution, it was ultimately the rivalry between the major European powers that led the “land of poets and thinkers” to spark a revolution.

Based on research by biologist Justus von Liebig, nitrogen-containing fertilizers experienced an incredible surge in demand. Today, this can be compared more to the semiconductor industry.

Natural deposits of such fertilizers were limited. The potential here lay in Chilean saltpeter and guano (a mixture of seabird droppings, such as those from penguins, on limestone).

So while today we tend to seek dependencies, just under 100 years ago the goal was to limit them.

Ostwald achieved the first steps and successes in synthetic fertilizers with his Ostwald process. Today, however, this is used primarily for the production of nitric acid.

Birkeland, a Norwegian, developed a process—with the support of industrialist Sam Eyde—for producing nitric acid using an electric arc. This process, however, was drastically inefficient.

Let’s now turn to the main topic:

The Germans’ drive toward self-sufficiency remained unbroken. The chemists Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch therefore developed an industrial-scale synthesis based on nitrogen—which makes up nearly 80% of the air—and hydrogen. BASF showed great economic interest in this $BAS (-0,15%) . This led not only to a collaboration. In 1913, the first large-scale plant for the production of ammonia was built in Ludwigshafen, with a capacity of 30 metric tons per day—an enormous figure at the time.

Due to World War I and the resulting demand for explosives, additional plants were built in Bitterfeld and Leuna. Incidentally, this construction still forms the foundation for the significant chemical industry in Saxony-Anhalt today.

2. “Bread from Air”—the process in color.

Conventional production (gray):

To produce ammonia (NH₃), you need nitrogen (N₂) and hydrogen (H₂). Nitrogen can be easily obtained by feeding in air. Hydrogen was originally produced through chlor-alkali electrolysis. Today, however, hydrogen is primarily produced from natural gas via steam reforming.

After a relatively simple process, the end result is a truly repulsive, pungent-smelling liquid.

“Green” production:

The “green” production of ammonia differs only slightly from the conventional method.

Since nitrogen is already extracted from the air and thus does not generate greenhouse gases, CO2 savings are only possible during the production of hydrogen (H2).

In this process, hydrogen must be fed directly from water via electrolysis. At least, that would be the most efficient method, since no further phase change of hydrogen needs to be taken into account.

Thus, the process differs only in the production of the raw material “hydrogen.” The rest of the synthesis is also carried out using the Haber-Bosch process.

3. Uses – Why is ammonia actually so important for household use?

Ammonia is an important chemical raw material for virtually all branches of industry. Even in household use, we find it, for example, in:

- our refrigerator (refrigerant)

- our clothing (dye)

- diesel vehicles for exhaust treatment (AdBlue as a urea solution)

- proteins in the body and in the urea cycle as a breakdown product of the body’s own “overdose”

4. What does this mean in terms of potential beneficiaries for an investment?

To answer that, we must, of course, ask ourselves the questions behind the how, what, and why. Broadly speaking, ammonia can now be classified as part of the energy storage sector, though it receives significantly less attention in this regard than hydrogen.

The world’s largest publicly traded manufacturers are Yara $YAR (+1,76%) and CF Industries $CF (+1,92%) , although Yara, which also produces its own product, is more closely associated with the chemical trading sector, such as Brenntag $BNR (+0,16%) . As a result, the company is better positioned to weather crises during recessions. Chemical distributors can dispense containers of any size and purchase large batches, thereby retaining the difference as a margin. This tends to mean that, in times of economic uncertainty, customers are more willing to buy smaller containers to reduce inventory in the event of a production shutdown due to lack of demand.

CF Industries, on the other hand, is a “true” producer and has been aiming to produce “green” ammonia since this year.

With regard to advanced processes, the trend is now such that, due to improved efficiency, air is no longer injected—only pure nitrogen. Alongside this, of course, is hydrogen. Manufacturers usually possess the necessary process expertise themselves, so dependence on hydrogen suppliers can essentially be ruled out. One exception here is Linde’s engineering division $LIN . They possess expertise in entire hydrogen and ammonia plants. Incidentally, this would also be another reason to avoid the “small” hype stocks, such as Nel $NEL (-0,52%) or Plug $PLUG (+0%) in the hydrogen sector, and why these are unlikely to gain traction. After all, ammonia would be a massive customer for this industry. Nevertheless, ammonia producers are absurdly undervalued on the stock market—with average P/E ratios of 5. In contrast, some stocks in the largest hydrogen ETF $HTWO (-1,19%) are valued at >20—if they can even post profits at all.

Here’s an example:

CF-Industries is valued at around €14 billion. Plug Power is still valued at just under €7 billion—that’s half as much. While Plug has been burning through cash for years and doesn’t even generate revenue in the billions, CF is extremely profitable.

Both operate primarily in the “clean” energy sector. Nevertheless, CF is expected to see a decline in business in the coming years. This is inexplicable and illogical, and it certainly won’t happen.

5. So where is the growth potential?

This is truly extremely difficult to assess in this context, as the market is largely saturated and divided.

In general, however, one should indeed highlight BASF. Although the closure of ammonia production at the Ludwigshafen site is attributable to high production costs in Europe, the company largely retains the entire value chain of ammonia-based products in-house.

In the following, I would like to take a closer look at a few ammonia-based products that, in my opinion, have high growth potential. Given the growth potential of these products, manufacturers’ ammonia production should remain stable in the future and, of course, continue to gain in importance.

Urea:

Contrary to popular belief, urea is not merely ammonia or a solution of it. It is a distinct chemical compound and a derivative of ammonia.

With a market share of 46%, urea is the preeminent nitrogen-containing fertilizer. This trend is naturally set to continue as the global population keeps growing. Furthermore, many of the raw materials of the future are plant-based. This naturally means there is considerable growth potential here as well, along with a secure, crisis-resistant market. People will always eat!

3 representative examples: Yara $YAR (+1,76%) , CF Industries $CF (+1,92%) , Fertiglobe $FERTIGLB

Nitric acid:

Nitric acid is arguably the best-known nitrogen-containing acid. However, it is extremely dangerous in high concentrations, as it releases nitrous gases that are toxic and corrosive. It is used as a raw material for explosives such as TNT or nitroglycerin and is therefore essential for the mining sector. It is also found Yara is involved here as well. And no, this is not meant to be an advertisement. However, they control the vast majority of ammonia and nitrous production themselves and greatly value lucrative business opportunities.

Other major players in this sector include SKW Piesteritz GmbH and Staub & Co., as well as many other medium-sized companies.

Aniline:

Although aniline is now produced using ammonia only in the final stage of modern processes, it remains a steady market with growth potential. Earlier processes involved a complete reaction chain using ammonia. Aniline is a raw material for the production of dyes, medications, and synthetic rubber, as well as fibers—commonly known as synthetic fibers. As a substance, aniline also gave its name to the largest chemical company, BASF $BAS (-0,15%) , which derives from the original name of the Badische Anilin- and Soda-Ffactory .

In addition, however, DuPont $DD (+1,29%) , Shin-Etsu $4063 (+0,44%) and Eastman $EMN (-0,75%) also offer many aniline-based products.

6. Ammonia as the Fuel of the Future?:

The purpose of my posts is, of course, to discuss energy sources of the future while focusing on diversification.

A Solution as an Alternative Fuel:

However, since ammonia consists of 75% hydrogen and 25% nitrogen, it can easily be split again using a so-called ammonia cracker. This means that hydrogen can, for example, be harnessed for energy in a fuel cell and, on balance, has an efficiency many times higher than that of ammonia. Nevertheless, it still lags far behind battery-powered vehicles.

Nevertheless, even here, well-known companies—particularly in the heavy-duty transportation sector—have emerged that are considering ammonia as a solution for the future.

The Deutsche Bahn wants to convert some of its freight trains to ammonia in order to minimize its diesel fleet.

The VW subsidiary $VOW (-0,94%) , MAN, is working on ammonia-based marine engines.

John Deere $DE (+0,84%) is also working on such engines for medium-duty tractors.

7. Ammonia as an energy storage medium—what are its advantages?

The main point here is that while hydrogen is needed to produce ammonia, it would have to be liquefied for transport—a process that consumes a lot of energy.

A quick recap: To do this, hydrogen must be cooled to approximately -250 degrees Celsius and compressed to 700 bar.

Ammonia, on the other hand, can be liquefied at 20 degrees Celsius—that is, room temperature—and at approximately 8 bar.

The energy required is therefore dramatically lower. Furthermore, ammonia’s energy density (~3.3 kWh/l) is higher because hydrogen (~2.2 kWh/l in liquid form) is chemically bound as an energy carrier, thereby reducing the volume of the hydrogen.

The relevant parameters are taken from the “Formula Collection” published by Duden.

In addition to the advantage I described above—that the compression energy required for ammonia is significantly lower than that for hydrogen—ammonia can also be easily stored chemically and handled much more advantageously. For example, ammonia can be converted into a salt, making it very easy to store and transport as a solid. At approximately 60 degrees Celsius, these salts decompose and release ammonia again.

But even without conversion, ammonia is already usable today as a gas, since the natural gas network infrastructure is designed to handle it. It can be transported by ship, via pipeline, or even in standard gas cylinders or cartridges.

This is because the structure of ammonia is coarser and larger than that of hydrogen.

8. What is the general disadvantage of ammonia?

The biggest disadvantages are the acute health and environmental hazards posed by the substance. Leaks would certainly cause lasting environmental damage to animals, nature, and humans.

It contains only a quarter of the energy of gasoline and only half that of diesel. Consequently, twice the amount would be needed compared to fossil fuels.

Incomplete combustion—which is quite common in engines—produces “nitrous oxide,” a narcotic and potent greenhouse gas. Engines must therefore burn fuel extremely efficiently and thoroughly.

Postscript:

I hope you enjoyed this post.

The next post will cover the chemical processing of lithium. The carbon footprint is an interesting aspect here, but the focus will be on how the stock market completely misjudges the value chains and how valuations distort the picture of the real economy.