The German chemical company BASF, which makes advanced-battery materials, said it will make cathode materials to support North America’s “e-mobility transition,” and also refine and recycle metals in Bécancour, Que. Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, but BASF told The Logic it received financial support from both federal and provincial governments. (The Logic)

Talking point: BASF said it will use its “global metal-sourcing network” but also support regional supply chains. It has and previously praised Canada’s raw materials—so the investment could help Quebec achieve its goal of supplying critical minerals for electric vehicles. Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne told Reuters that BASF’s “substantial” investment would be “the first pillar of the battery ecosystem in Canada.” Joanna Kyriazis, program manager of clean transportation at Clean Energy Canada, tweeted that cathodes are “one of the highest value parts of the battery supply chain,” and are insulated from U.S. policies that threaten Canadian battery exports. BASF said it chose the site for access to hydropower and the St. Lawrence River, echoing praise for Quebec from fellow battery maker Britishvolt.