
In a significant move that could reshape Europe’s clean energy manufacturing landscape, California-based startup Lyten has announced it will fully acquire the Northvolt Dwa Energy Storage Systems (ESS) facility. Located in Gdansk, Poland, the plant—once Europe’s most promising response to Chinese battery dominance—was left dormant after Northvolt’s bankruptcy earlier this year. Lyten’s decision to restart operations at the expansive site signals a renewed effort to bolster regional energy resilience and innovation in battery technologies.

I. Lyten’s Strategic Expansion into Europe
1. Full Acquisition of Northvolt Dwa ESS
Lyten, a Silicon Valley-based company specializing in next-generation lithium-sulfur batteries, declared on Tuesday that it would take complete ownership of the Gdansk-based Northvolt Dwa ESS factory. This acquisition comes on the heels of Northvolt’s financial collapse in March 2025, marking one of the largest corporate bankruptcies in Sweden’s history. The factory had previously halted operations in November 2024, symbolizing a setback in Europe’s bid to compete with Chinese battery producers.
Now, Lyten aims to breathe new life into the facility. “We plan to immediately restart operations in Poland and deliver on existing and new customer orders,” said Dan Cook, Lyten’s CEO and co-founder, in a press release. The strategic takeover is expected to finalize in the third quarter of this year, though financial details have not been disclosed.
2. A Lifeline to Europe’s Energy Storage Industry
The reactivation of this factory represents more than just a business maneuver—it’s a potential lifeline for Europe’s energy storage ambitions. With its 25,000 square meter (269,000 square feet) footprint and advanced manufacturing capabilities, the plant had been seen as Europe’s flagship project for large-scale energy storage. Its revival by Lyten could reestablish a crucial foothold for the continent in the highly competitive global battery market.
II. The Factory’s Capabilities and Long-Term Vision
1. Massive Production Capacity and R&D Facilities
Originally launched in 2023, the Gdansk facility is equipped with production machinery capable of manufacturing up to 6 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of energy storage systems per year. According to Lyten, the site also has the infrastructure and spatial capacity to eventually scale output to 10 GWh annually. This would make it one of the most productive battery plants in Europe.
In addition to production, the facility also houses research and development operations—making it not only a manufacturing hub but also a center for technological advancement in battery chemistry and design.
2. Strong Market Demand and Pre-Booked Orders
Lyten revealed that it has already secured customer orders extending well into 2026, underscoring the market’s confidence in its products and the demand for reliable energy storage solutions. With the factory’s restart, Lyten plans to prioritize fulfilling these existing contracts while also seeking to attract new clients across Europe and beyond.
This robust backlog of orders may provide the startup with stable revenue as it ramps up operations and works toward scaling production.
3. Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
At the heart of Lyten’s mission is the development of sustainable battery technology. The company is known for its proprietary lithium-sulfur battery platform, which offers a lighter, more energy-dense, and environmentally friendlier alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells. Incorporating this technology into the production lines at the Gdansk factory could position Lyten as a leading innovator in Europe’s clean tech sector.
III. Broader Industry Implications
1. Reigniting Europe’s Battery Manufacturing Ambitions
Northvolt Dwa’s collapse was widely seen as a major blow to Europe’s battery industry, which has long sought to reduce dependence on Asian imports, particularly from China. With Lyten stepping in, there’s a renewed opportunity to revive local manufacturing, create jobs, and support Europe’s green transition goals.
This acquisition also demonstrates the potential for cross-Atlantic cooperation in energy innovation, as U.S.-based startups look to invest in European infrastructure and talent.
2. Potential for Technology Transfer and Local Talent Engagement
By setting up shop in Poland, Lyten is expected to engage with local engineering and manufacturing professionals, many of whom were previously employed by Northvolt. This transition offers a pathway to retain valuable talent and technical know-how within the region.
Moreover, the knowledge transfer from a Silicon Valley tech startup could infuse the European market with cutting-edge practices in energy storage development, potentially boosting innovation across the continent.
3. A Resilient Move Amidst Economic and Geopolitical Challenges
The acquisition comes at a time when Europe is grappling with supply chain disruptions, inflation, and geopolitical tensions—all of which have affected energy projects and investments. Lyten’s bold decision to invest in a previously bankrupt site signals confidence in the long-term viability of the battery market and the strategic importance of energy independence.
Conclusion
Lyten’s acquisition and planned revival of the Northvolt Dwa ESS factory mark a pivotal moment for Europe’s clean energy ambitions. Not only does this move salvage a major piece of the region’s battery infrastructure, but it also injects new momentum into the continent’s push for technological sovereignty in energy storage.
With state-of-the-art facilities, long-term customer commitments, and a commitment to innovation, Lyten is well-positioned to reshape the future of energy storage in Europe. This strategic entry into the European market could set a precedent for other international players looking to invest in and revitalize dormant assets for sustainable growth.














