The EMME project

EMME is a pioneering project dedicated to producing essential battery materials for electric vehicle batteries in France.

The project involves the development of a nickel and cobalt conversion hub, along with a materials science and process engineering laboratory, on the industrial-port site of Parempuyre-Blanquefort, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

Starting in 2028, this industrial and technical site will supply battery-grade critical materials to European players in electric mobility — supporting a more sustainable automotive industry.

By 2030, EMME aims to cover over 30% of France’s material needs for electric mobility.

Battery supply chain

EMME is positioned at Stage 2 of the battery value chain: Refined materials, and at Stage 6: Second life and recycling. Our process has been specifically designed to handle raw materials recovered from end-of-life batteries, reinforcing our commitment to a circular, low-impact economy.

What’s at stake

Building the industrial capacity and expertise needed to produce high-quality materials for electric vehicle batteries

Cutting the carbon footprint of battery-grade materials to support a cleaner, more sustainable mobility industry

The EMME project is fully aligned with the European Union’s "European Raw Materials Act" (March 16, 2023), which aims to secure Europe’s supply chains for critical raw materials. It also supports the France 2030 strategy, which seeks to position France as a key player in the electric mobility sector.

EMME meets the criteria for green industries as defined by the law of October 23, 2023, and was officially granted "green industry" tax credit approval on December 31, 2024. It has also been recognized as a Project of Major National or European Interest.

Our products

Two essential materials meeting battery-grade quality standards

Nickel sulphate

Nickel sulphate hexahydrate
NiSO₄·6H₂O

Gros plan de grains de sel bleus.

Cobalt sulphate

Cobalt sulphate heptahydrate
CoSO₄·7H₂O

Gros plan de grains de sel rouge, petits et translucides.

Co-products such as sodium sulfate, gypsum, and manganese carbonate are also produced.

Local Impact

Key Figures at a glance

  • 500 jobs, including 200 direct jobs on-site

  • €500 million in total investment

  • €30 million per year in operating consumables

  • €20 million per year in contributions to public finances

In addition to its measurable economic impact, EMME is committed to supporting the development of the local area, particularly the host municipalities of the project, through a range of community-focused initiatives:

  • Supporting local sports, cultural, and social activities

  • Helping to create a riverside recreational area during the construction phase

  • Participating in the upkeep of the Parc des Jalles

  • Collaborating with local stakeholders to improve transportation options — including a proposed electric river shuttle and a dedicated bike path

They Said It – Voices from the Local Economy, shared during an event gathering local economic stakeholders

  • “Full and unwavering support from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. We voted and submitted our feedback to the CNDP [Editor’s note: French National Commission for Public Debate]. Our opinion is overwhelmingly positive, especially since you addressed our environmental concerns.”

    Patrick SEGUIN, The President of the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie Bordeaux-Gironde (CCI Bordeaux Gironde)

  • Homme parlant en utilisant un micro lors d'une présentation ou conférence, portant un costume et des lunettes.

    “The strategy behind the EMME project is both national and European in scope. The core issue is the production of materials for electric vehicle batteries, which fits into a broader vision around securing supplies of strategic minerals and metals essential to industry. Our entire industrial base depends on them — from electric vehicles to renewable energy storage.”

    Benjamin GALLEZOT, Director of the Interministerial Delegation for the Supply of Strategic Metals and Minerals (DIAMMS)

  • Un homme en costume bleu et chemise blanche parlant dans un microphone durant une réunion ou une conférence.

    “We welcome the arrival of the EMME project, which aligns perfectly with the momentum of our regional chemical industry. This new site represents a tremendous opportunity — not only for the creation of skilled jobs and the development of new expertise, but also for strengthening our industrial sovereignty. In return, our sector will offer EMME strong local expertise in industrial chemistry and circular economy, a qualified network of partners, and the support of our institutions. It’s a powerful synergy that will undoubtedly contribute to the decarbonization of our industry and to training the next generation of talent.”

    Frédéric BATAILLE, General Delegate of France Chimie Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a professional federation representing 90 chemical industry sites and 7,500 jobs in the region

Project high-level timeline

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