American defence and technology leader Lockheed Martin has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Romanian company Sinteza SA to establish a negative electrolyte factory in Oradea. The facility, which will produce key components for Lockheed Martin’s advanced GridStar Flow battery system, represents a €50 million investment, with half of the funding secured through Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

The factory, set to become the largest of its kind globally, will have an annual production capacity of 30,000 tonnes of electrolyte. This development positions Romania as a critical player in the deployment of advanced energy storage solutions across Europe.

GridStar Flow is currently the only flow battery system capable of addressing both anticipated and unanticipated grid outages, ensuring reliable energy storage and grid stability.

Oradea mayor Florin Birta, who announced the agreement, highlighted the factory's importance for the local economy, noting that it will boost business opportunities, create jobs, and contribute to energy security and sustainability.

This is a European first, contributing to the green transition and energy security.

The project reflects Lockheed Martin’s ongoing diversification into energy solutions, leveraging its technological expertise traditionally associated with defence products like the Patriot missile system and F-35 fighter jets. By partnering with Sinteza SA, the company is advancing its commitment to supporting green technologies and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

This significant investment reinforces Romania’s industrial capabilities and its growing role in sustainable energy production, marking a milestone in Europe’s green energy transition.