ABOUND Energy (formerly Zinc8 Energy), a Canadian stationary energy storage solutions provider, has signed a strategic collaboration for a year with AZUL Energy, a company developing high-performance non-precious metal catalysts.

Under the partnership, the two companies intend to further their IPs and develop additional sustainable energy solutions by combining ABOUND’s air cathode technology, ZaeroTex, and AZUL’s non-precious metal catalyst technology. 

Through this, the companies intend to create a non-precious metal catalyst-coated electrode material as a substitute for conventional air cathodes using precious metal catalysts, which have a relatively higher cost and diminished durability. Furthermore, ABOUND aims to reduce material costs for its air cathode through this collaboration and thus, lower the USD/kWh cost of Zaeras, the company’s long-duration energy storage technology.

Analyst QuickTake: In January 2024 , Zinc8 Energy's name was changed to "ABOUND Energy," during which it reported plans to diversify its focus, expand its market presence, and deliver stakeholder value. The company also planned to shift from a build-and-sell model to a profit-sharing model with JVs and energy providers to capitalize on excess power during peak usage.