Title: Quebec Battery Supply Chain Projects Paused

MONTREAL — Two significant battery supply chain projects in Quebec have been halted. The expansion of a battery project in Bécancour is on hold, and the associated plant has been canceled. Quebec Economy Minister Christine Fréchette announced that Ultium Cam, a collaboration between General Motors and South Korean manufacturer POSCO, has paused the second phase of its project aimed at producing cathode active materials for electric vehicle batteries.

Additionally, Vale Base Metals has confirmed the cancellation of its plans for a nickel sulfate plant that was intended to supply Ultium Cam. Fréchette stated that these decisions are part of a broader global slowdown in the battery supply chain development. Despite this setback, she expressed hope that the GM project could be relaunched in the future.

Fréchette also noted that many other battery projects are still progressing in Quebec. This announcement follows the Quebec government's recent decision to terminate the Northvolt electric vehicle battery project near Montreal. The developments reflect ongoing challenges in the battery supply industry, which is facing various economic pressures.