Work Beginning at Battery Innovation Center

Indiana is taking a major step toward its goal of being a hub for advanced battery testing and development. The $15.6 million Battery Innovation Center at the WestGate @ Crane Technology Park in southern Indiana opens today. Multiple projects have already begun in the facility, including the development of next generation lithium-ion cell designs. President Charles LaSota discussed the center's goals on Inside INdiana Business Television shortly after the deal was announced. Editor's Note: Since the interview, estimates have risen from $12 million to $15.6 million for the expected price of the center.

News Release

Originally Posted August 29, 2013

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – After nearly a year of construction, the $15.6 million Battery Innovation Center (BIC), launched by Energy Systems Network (ESN) in 2012, is complete and open for business at WestGate@Crane Technology Park adjacent to Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane. A dozen corporate members will soon begin battery research and development projects at the BIC, including: AeroVironment, Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC), EaglePicher, Eaton Corporation, Ivy Tech Community College, MEGTEC, Penn State University, Purdue University, Renewz, Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Stimulus Engineering, and Technical Services Corporation (TSC).

WHO:

-Indiana Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann

-Congressman Larry Bucshon (8th District)

-Charles LaSota, president, Battery Innovation Center

-Colonel Alan Pratt, Commander of NSWC Crane

-Don Schulte, director, WestGate

-Becky Skillman, director, Radius Indiana

-Paul Mitchell, president and CEO, Energy Systems Network

WHEN: Friday, August 30, 2013 – 11a.m. (EDT)

WHERE: WestGate Academy: 13598 East WestGate Drive, Odon, IN 47562

Directions are on the WestGate Academy website. Public parking is available on site. Buses will be provided to move from the WestGate Academy to the BIC lab for the facility tour.

Source: Energy Systems Network