Axens’ MACARON cathode plant earns France’s strategic project label and 25% tax credit

Axens’ MACARON project, a proposed cathode active materials (CAM) plant for electric vehicle batteries, has achieved significant recognition from the French government. Located in Saint-Saulve, Northern France, the project has been designated as one of France’s 150 “major strategic projects” by the Élysée, awarded a Net Zero label, and approved for a 25% investment tax credit under the Green Industry Investment Tax Credit (C3IV) scheme. These milestones highlight the French State’s commitment to supporting the development of a domestic and European supply chain for critical battery materials. The Net Zero label, granted in March 2026, underscores the project’s importance in reducing Europe’s industrial reliance on external sources for strategic battery materials. It also aims to enhance the resilience of the European electric vehicle value chain, aligning with broader goals of sustainability and energy independence. This designation is expected to facilitate smoother engagement with permitting authorities in France and the European Union, potentially accelerating the project’s authorisation process. The financial backing through the C3IV scheme is particularly crucial, as it reimburses 25% of eligible costs related to plant construction and equipment installation. Axens has described this support as vital for the project’s viability, reflecting the high capital investment required to establish advanced battery material production facilities. Environmental and building permit applications are scheduled for submission imminently, with a public inquiry planned for summer 2026, marking key steps towards realising the project. Looking ahead, Axens targets a final investment decision by mid-2027 and aims to have the plant operational by 2030. Quentin Debuisschert, CEO of Axens, emphasised the project’s strategic value in fostering French and European industrial sovereignty in the battery sector. The MACARON plant represents a significant move towards securing local production capabilities for advanced battery materials, a critical component in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.