South Korean battery giant Samsung SDI has signed a new agreement to supply the US with one gigawatt-hour (GWh) of batteries that feature 17 percent higher energy density and a 25-year lifespan.
As part of the collaboration, the Yongin-based company will provide its Samsung Battery Box (SBB) 1.7 to Houston’s battery energy storage system (BESS) specialist Alpha Omega Power (AOP). The fully integrated ESS solution integrates nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA) batteries
According to Samsung SDI, the systems will reportedly be used in energy projects across the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) and Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) power markets. The construction is set to begin in 2027.
All battery cells and modules will be manufactured at the StarPlus Energy plant in Kokomo, Indiana. The site is a joint venture between Stellantis N.V. and Samsung SDI. Deliveries scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
Higher energy density
The 6.14-megawatt (MW) containerized system delivers 17 percent higher energy density than its predecessor, the SBB 1.5. It moreover maintains the same 20-foot container footprint, and relies on high nickel-cobalt-aluminium oxide (NCA) cells.
The upgrade is expected to increase the storage capacity without taking up more space. Samsung SDI said that the system features Enhanced Direct Injection (EDI) technology, which sprays fire-extinguishing agents directly into battery modules.
It also incorporates AI-based algorithms to spot potential faults early and predict battery lifespan, and uses the company’s prismatic battery technology, known as PrismStack, which is designed to provide strong durability and safety.
Credit: Samsung SDI
Prismatic batteries are housed in rigid rectangular cases that provide structural protection for the battery cells. Samsung SDI noted its prismatic technology has helped the company meet the strict safety and performance requirements of US energy companies.
The SBB 1.7 is also built for 25 years of continuous use, which makes it suitable for long-term grid storage applications. “With our differentiated technology and local production capabilities, we will continue to expand our business foundation and strengthen our position in the North American ESS market,” said Fabrice Hudry, president of Samsung SDI America’s ESS division.
Expanding storage capacity
Samsung SDI highlighted that the system has met major safety requirements. This includes the NFPA 855, that covers stationary energy storage installations, as well as the UL 9540, a safety standard for energy storage systems.
The latest deal builds on an earlier agreement between Samsung SDI and Alpha Omega Power signed in late 2025. Together, the two contracts cover 1.5 GWh of energy storage systems, all of which will be manufactured at the Indiana facility.
The batteries will help AOP meet the nation’s growing energy needs. “American-made ESS from SAMSUNG SDI will play an important role in AOP’s continued growth,” Paul Choi, AOP CEO, stated. “This second agreement strengthens our domestic supply chain supporting the next generation of energy infrastructure.”
“Alpha Omega Power is one of the fastest growing independent power producers in the country, and the kind of sophisticated operator we want to partner with to tackle grid reliability challenges,” Hudry concluded in a press release.