Standard Chartered has completed the signing of a EUR514 million multi‑export credit agency green financing package for Easpring Finland New Materials Oy, supporting the development of a new lithium‑ion battery cathode active material (CAM) plant in Kotka.
The Kotka CAM plant represents a substantial industrial investment in Finland. It is expected to supply leading battery manufacturers across Europe including LG Energy Solution (LGES), AESC and SK On
The bank acted as Lead Arranger, Joint Green Loan Coordinator and Lender, with backing from both China’s Sinosure and Finland’s export credit agency, Finnvera.
The funding will enable construction of a major CAM manufacturing facility designed to help close Europe’s supply gap for essential battery materials, reinforce the resilience of the regional EV battery value chain, and contribute to long‑term energy transition goals. The project is also highlighted as a significant example of Sino‑European cooperation in the new‑energy sector, combining China’s battery materials expertise with Europe’s need for secure, localised supply chains.
Eleanor Weir of Standard Chartered said: “The energy transition will be shaped not only by the technologies we develop, but by our ability to build the industrial supply chains that support them.” She added that the transaction demonstrates the bank’s ability to connect partners across markets and emphasised the role of export credit agencies in unlocking long‑term capital.
Standard Chartered also provided wider banking support, including capital flows, cash management and foreign exchange, with RMB actively used in the investment structure. As Joint Green Loan Coordinator, the bank confirmed the project’s alignment with the Green Loan Principles and international sustainability standards.
The Kotka plant’s first phase is designed for 60,000 tonnes of annual CAM output, with scope for expansion as European demand grows. Around 270 permanent jobs are expected once the facility becomes operational.
The project is a joint venture owned by Beijing Easpring Material Technology (70%), Finnish Minerals Group (28.3%) and LG Energy Solution (1.7%).
Image: The financing package was signed in Helsinki on July 8, 2026. Credit: Easpring Finland.
