Moment Energy: Leading by Example in the Evolution of Electric Vehicles
The transition towards electric vehicles in California is an essential step towards establishing cleaner energy. However, for this transition to be truly effective, we must prioritize the repurposing of batteries and invest in a comprehensive lithium recycling infrastructure. This shift not only strengthens our commitment to sustainability but also paves the way for innovations in energy storage and independence.
California stands as a beacon of progress in the electric vehicle (EV) movement, accounting for a remarkable 25% of all EV sales in the United States. This impressive growth is fueled by a comprehensive infrastructure of public chargers, generous incentives, and rebate programs, all converging towards a bold vision of ensuring 100% of new car sales are zero-emissions by 2035.¹
As of 2024, California has witnessed over 2 million electric vehicle sales, with Los Angeles County leading the charge by registering 128,321 new zero-emission vehicles. Other key regions, such as Orange County, Santa Clara County, and San Diego County, are also experiencing significant increases in EV adoption.²
While many celebrate this transition to electric vehicles as a monumental step for environmental sustainability, the conversation must pivot toward a pressing concern: the lifecycle of EV batteries. As we embrace this shift, we must prioritize the repurposing of batteries and proper lithium recycling to ensure a truly sustainable future.
The Realities of EV Battery Lifespan
Electric vehicle batteries typically last 10 to 20 years, but on average, they provide reliable service for about 12.5 years. They are generally replaced when their capacity dips to around 80%.³ When we consider the projected growth in EV sales, this raises alarming questions: What happens to millions of removed batteries? How can we mitigate the environmental impact of premature battery disposal?
While companies like Li-Cycle recycle EV batteries,⁴ they are currently struggling due to the cost of battery transportation and the expense of the technology.⁵ Proper infrastructure to support this process is urgently needed. It’s not just about the recycling methods but about preemptively establishing systems that compensate for battery waste and ensure safe disposal.
Center for Community Energy: a Non-Profit Clean Energy Advocacy Group
At the Center for Community Energy, our core initiatives focus on sustainable energy solutions that benefit the environment and homeowners. Our initiatives champion electrification, electric vehicles, and local microgrid development. With California producing more solar energy than the grid can currently store⁵, our company has taken a special interest in bi-directional charging and taming peak-hour costs to make electricity more affordable for everyone.
Our recent participation in the Intersolar Convention in San Diego provided us with insights into the latest advancements and trends in the sustainability sector. It was there that we engaged with Brandon Hong from Moment Energy —a pioneering Canadian company that upcycles electric vehicle batteries into sustainable energy storage solutions. These batteries serve as a vital resource for the grid during peak consumption periods, allowing owners to harness surplus solar energy generated throughout the day.
After the event, we had an exclusive interview with Brandon Hong and Miguel Resendiz Jimenez about the exciting developments in this company.
Moment Energy: Leading by Example
Innovatively addressing these challenges is Moment Energy, a trailblazing company that has crafted the ability to build a a manufacturing plant able to produce over a GWh in battery storage yearly.—without mining any new lithium. They “keep people’s lights on and keep batteries from ending up in landfills.”⁶ ⁷ Moment Energy takes a pioneering approach by repurposing retired EV batteries, transforming them into usable power sources for the grid. This is not just a sustainable solution; it is a vital one.
Moment Energy – Founders at their Warehouse
Founded about five years ago by experts from Tesla and Apple, Moment Energy has raised significant funding, including $15 million from Voyager Ventures and Amazon’s Climate Pledge, alongside $20.3 million from the U.S. Department of Energy and $6 million from IRA. The company has rapidly expanded, now employing 45 staff and building a $40.6M gigawatt-hour manufacturing facility in Texas. The region is planning to create 250 new high-technology and high-paying jobs.
Moment Energy – 5th Year Anniversary
By acquiring used batteries from manufacturers and repurposing them, Moment Energy exemplifies how the technology can significantly extend battery life. These batteries undergo significant testing and grading process to determine a critical health analysis. Depending on their condition, they are safely repurposed and modularized, allowing for an additional 10-15 years of energy storage solutions for the grid without the use of new lithium for battery production.
This “second life” for batteries is a brilliant investment in both resource efficiency and environmental protection. The company set a precedent with UL-1974 certification, ensuring the safe repurposing of batteries. Their modular systems are available in different sizes, capable of storing 400 kWh and a 1 MWh solution with a 500 kW output (discharging for two hours).
Moreover, every battery repurposed reduces the demand for new lithium extraction. Lithium mining poses significant environmental risks, including habitat destruction and water depletion. If we can harness and regenerate existing batteries, we are taking a giant leap towards sustainability by reusing and repurposing critical mineral resources rather than depleting them.
The Need for Robust Recycling Infrastructure
Improper disposal of lithium batteries can lead to hazardous consequences, including environmental contamination and safety risks from battery fires. Advocating for policies that incentivize repurposing and recycling programs, support innovation in battery technology, and establish clear industry standards for battery disposal is of utmost importance.
With a clear and concise recycling program, 99% of lead-acid batteries are recycled making them one of the most highly recycled products compared to less than 15% of lithium-ion batteries.⁸ While EV batteries are returned to their manufacturer and recycled, billions of lithium-ion batteries in most other devices end up in landfills. Hence we need a comprehensive policy to address this issue and education for people to learn how to safely dispose of old lithium-ion batteries in established centers (not just pop-up events).
This future-driven approach requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and consumers. By building a robust repurposing first, then recycling framework that prioritizes safety and efficiency, we can transform discarded batteries into invaluable resources, preventing them from becoming a burden on our ecosystems.
Supporting initiatives, like those championed by Moment Energy and others in the sector, is essential. These companies are leading the charge in not only reimagining battery usage but also creating domestic energy solutions that have a positive, compounded impact on the grid, while benefiting the planet.
As we accelerate our pursuit of a cleaner future, let’s harness the potential of every battery we produce, ensuring that they are repurposed reintegrated, and recycled into our energy infrastructure systems. Together, we can drive a powerful change that not only meets our current needs but secures energy sovereignty and sustainability for future generations.
For more information about Moment Energy’s groundbreaking initiatives and innovative recycling processes, visit Moment Energy.
References:
- https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/news/california-moves-accelerate-100-new-zero-emission-vehicle-sales-2035
- https://www.energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/zero-emission-vehicle-and-infrastructure-statistics-collection/new-zev
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/how-long-do-ev-batteries-last/
- https://li-cycle.com/
- https://battery-news.de/en/2025/03/19/glencore-ihntends-to-acquire-li-cycle/
- Interview with Brandon Hong and Miguel Jimenez from Moment Energy on March 6th, 2025
- https://www.momentenergy.com
- https://batterycouncil.org/news/lead-battery-recycling-success-story-on-america-recycles-day/
