Founded in 2020 by Dr. Richard Fields, Cellerate focuses on developing automated systems that accelerate the commercialisation of next-generation energy storage technologies. By advancing battery research, the company aims to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Dr. Fields, who holds a PhD in Material Science from The University of Surrey, has over 11 years of experience in designing and manufacturing batteries and supercapacitors. During his tenure at the National Graphene Institute, based at the University of Manchester, he identified the common challenges associated with manually building battery test cells, including increased human error in data collection.
To address this, Dr. Fields developed an innovative automated battery test cell manufacturing system that eliminates human error and improves data accuracy. This cutting-edge solution not only enhances battery technology but also reduces labour time by 80% compared to traditional methods.
Cellerate’s technology is now used globally, with operations extending across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
The funding will enable Cellerate to expand its current premises, outfitting a larger unit with state-of-the-art battery manufacturing equipment. This will allow the company to meet increasing production demands and continue developing industry-leading solutions in energy storage technology.
Dr Richard Fields, founder of Cellerate, said: "The journey Cellerate has been on in just three years is incredible. We are already an industry leader in advanced energy storage solutions and want to continue making a positive impact on the industry through our solutions.
"It has been great to use my research to positively impact corporations, government bodies, and academic institutions. As we move into our new premises following the funding from NPIF, I look forward to growing the business further and entering this new chapter in Cellerate's growth journey."
Andy Nichols, senior loan manager at GC Business Finance, added: "As a Manchester-based business it is exciting to see the impact Cellerate is already having on the industry. Manchester was home to the industrial revolution, so it is great to continue this legacy and support another innovative manufacturing business.
"Becoming a global leader in the battery cell industry within just four years, the success Cellerate has already achieved is incredible. It has been a pleasure to work with Dr. Richard and I look forward to seeing the continued success Cellerate will have."
Debbie Sorby, senior manager at the British Business Bank, said: "The industry-wide success Cellerate has achieved displays the strength of business innovation we have in the North West. Funding from NPIF gives Northern businesses like Cellerate the momentum to continue growing and making an impact in their industry.
"Delivering regionally focused support throughout the North boosts economic prosperity and allows businesses to flourish. I look forward to seeing the continued success of Cellerate as they continue to bring innovative solutions to the cell battery industry."
The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.
