Malaysia’s sodium‑ion leap
NanoMalaysia unveiled a high‑density sodium‑ion prototype that exceeds 300 Wh/kg using NASICON materials and graphene — a potential lithium‑ion alternative for renewables and grid storage. That energy density and local development could shift procurement choices for utility‑scale storage and DER projects in the region, not just labs.
The project was developed under the NanoMalaysia Energy Storage Technology Initiative (NESTI) in collaboration with International Battery Centre (IBC) Sdn. Bhd., according to NanoMalaysia’s March 2, 2026 media release. nanomalaysia.com.my NanoMalaysia’s statement specifies a sodium vanadium phosphate (NVP) compound as the cathode material used in the prototype cell. nanomalaysia.com.my The organisation’s press release cites a market forecast that values the global sodium‑ion sector at USD 1.8 billion in 2025 and projects expansion to USD 12.5 billion by 2035 at an approximate 21.4% CAGR. nanomalaysia.com.my Listed target applications in the release include telecommunications backup systems and low‑speed electric mobility—explicitly naming two‑ and three‑wheelers—alongside larger energy‑storage deployments. nanomalaysia.com.my NanoMalaysia describes the work as reaching prototype validation and calls for industrial off‑takers to move the technology up the technology‑readiness ladder and secure private investment. nanomalaysia.com.my NMB frames the initiative under a “Made In and By Malaysia” industrial strategy, with CEO Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad stating the goal of positioning Malaysian firms within the regional battery value chain. nanomalaysia.com.my
