Nissan Launches Second-Life EV Battery Initiative to Power Melbourne Factory
Nissan Australia is setting a new standard for battery sustainability by transforming used LEAF electric vehicle batteries into second-life energy storage systems. These repurposed batteries will help power operations at the Nissan Casting Australia Plant (NCAP) in Dandenong, Victoria, in combination with a newly built solar farm.
Innovative Battery Reuse Meets Renewable Energy
The initiative deploys nine power packs salvaged from first-generation Nissan LEAF vehicles sold between 2011 and 2017. These batteries will support the plant’s production energy needs while also supplying power for on-site EV charging stations used by staff.
By integrating solar energy with battery storage, the facility is projected to reduce its CO2 emissions by 259 tonnes annually and save approximately 128 megawatt-hours of electricity per year from the grid.
Reinforcing Local and Global Supply Chains
Established in 1982, the NCAP facility plays a vital role in Nissan’s global EV production. About 50 percent of the aluminum castings manufactured there are shipped worldwide for use in both Nissan’s electric and hybrid vehicles, including all LEAF models and the latest Qashqai e-Power hybrid.
This project reflects a circular economy mindset, extending the lifecycle of lithium-ion batteries while reducing energy dependency and enhancing factory sustainability.
Local Collaboration and Battery Innovation
The initiative is a joint effort with The Node Project, a Melbourne-based startup developing advanced techniques for battery management and life extension. The project includes the use of next-generation inverter technology that increases the lifespan of used batteries and enables their safe deployment in second-life applications.
Leadership in Circular Battery Economy
Andrew Humberstone, Managing Director of Nissan Oceania, emphasized the strategic importance of the project. He described it as “not just a hugely exciting project, but an important step into the future for end-of-life EV batteries.”
Humberstone added that Nissan’s role as an early EV pioneer comes with the responsibility to demonstrate leadership in sustainable innovation, especially in battery circularity.
Key Insight
Nissan’s second-life EV battery initiative is a tangible example of how global OEMs can leverage end-of-life assets to drive operational efficiency, energy savings, and sustainability leadership. For executives overseeing manufacturing, energy, or mobility transitions, this project showcases a viable model for reducing emissions while advancing the circular economy.
Growing global market for battery reuse and recycling read more
