How a Canadian Startup is Repurposing End-of-Life EV Batteries
The INNOVATORS - a chat with Co-Founder & COO, Moment Energy, Sumreen Rattan
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“My journey to founding Moment Energy was driven by a deep commitment to sustainability and the belief that technology can address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.”
A chat with Co-founder & COO, Moment Energy, Sumreen Rattan, and CoMotion’s Dan Eppstein and Jake Laffoley.
CoMotion: Tell us about Moment Energy, what is it that you do?
Sumreen Rattan: Moment Energy is at the forefront of clean energy innovation and is dedicated to extending the life of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. We repurpose end-of-life EV batteries into reliable, affordable, sustainable battery energy storage systems (BESS). Our unique selling point is our commitment to safety and reliability which is demonstrated through obtaining UL 1974 certification. We’re the only ones in North America to achieve it. This certification sets us apart in the industry and highlights our quality of testing, sorting and grading EV batteries. It enables us to ensure that every battery we repurpose is safe, reliable, and ready to contribute to a circular economy.
CoMotion: Who would be a typical client for Moment Energy and what partners do you rely on?
Sumreen Rattan: Our clients range from utilities seeking to stabilize the grid and manage renewable energy integration, to commercial and industrial businesses looking for peak shaving, arbitrage opportunities, and reliable backup power. In today’s energy landscape, where sustainability is paramount, our commitment to safety provides our clients with the assurance that they are investing in systems that are both reliable and environmentally responsible. We work closely with automakers, energy companies, and government agencies to deploy our systems. By collaborating with these partners, we help implement energy storage solutions that contribute to a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
CoMotion: What path led you here?
Sumreen Rattan: My journey to founding Moment Energy was driven by a deep commitment to sustainability and the belief that technology can address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As the electric vehicle market expanded, my co-founders and I saw a growing need to address the circular economy of EV batteries. By repurposing these batteries, we could extend their life and significantly reduce their environmental impact. This vision of creating a circular economy for EV batteries, coupled with the increasing need for clean, affordable, and reliable BESS, led to the founding of Moment Energy.
“One of the most surprising things is just how healthy these batteries are after their first life in a vehicle. On average, they still retain about 80% of their state of health. ”
CoMotion: What role do you see your company playing in the long term, and what hurdles might you face toward sustainability?
Sumreen Rattan: In the long term, Moment Energy aims to be a global leader in the battery energy storage industry, driving the transition to a circular economy where we enable all EV batteries to be repurposed. Our solutions will play a critical role in stabilizing the grid, enabling the widespread adoption of renewable energy, and providing reliable power to industries and communities worldwide. The challenges we anticipate include scaling our operations to meet growing demand and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape as we expand into new markets. However, our commitment to innovation and collaboration will help us overcome these hurdles.
CoMotion: What is the biggest challenge you’re currently facing, and what is the root cause of the issue?
Sumreen Rattan: Our biggest challenge is that repurposing EV batteries isn’t as widely understood as recycling. Many people see recycling as the only option, but repurposing is essential for extending battery life and reducing environmental impact. At Moment Energy, we’re leading efforts to educate the industry on the value of repurposing, and we’re proud to be the first and only company in North America to earn UL 1974 certification. As more stakeholders understand the benefits of repurposing and more batteries become available, this challenge will ease, allowing these batteries to continue contributing to a cleaner and more secure energy future.
CoMotion: What other organizations seem most committed and engaged in finding solutions for battery recycling, energy storage, and closed-loop manufacturing?
Sumreen Rattan: At Moment Energy, we are inspired by the efforts of several key partners in the industry who are deeply committed to advancing the circularity of EV batteries. In partnership with Moment Energy, Mercedes Benz Energy stands out as a remarkable ally in pioneering the repurposing of electric vehicle (EV) batteries for second-life applications. Their shared dedication to a circular economy for EV batteries perfectly aligns with our vision. The positive impact of our partnership has resonated throughout the automotive industry, garnering trust and confidence from other automakers. They recognize Moment Energy as a dedicated partner capable of sustainably and safely handling their EV batteries.
The BC Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) is another organization that has been instrumental in driving forward clean energy solutions in Canada. Their support and collaboration have been invaluable.
CoMotion: Tell us about the process of transforming used car batteries into energy storage systems - What might surprise us?
Sumreen Rattan: One of the most surprising things is just how healthy these batteries are after their first life in a vehicle. On average, they still retain about 80% of their state of health. While recycling is a critical step in the battery life cycle, repurposing offers a crucial intermediate stage, allowing these batteries to be used in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and extend their life significantly. Educating people about the role of repurposing as part of the circular economy, alongside recycling, is a key part of our mission. What’s even more remarkable is the quality of these EV batteries. When compared to first-life BESS, our UL 1974-certified process of using repurposed EV batteries can offer even better quality and reliability.
CoMotion: What has been your biggest milestone?
Sumreen Rattan: Our most significant milestone to date has been achieving UL 1974 certification, which has truly solidified our position as leaders in the repurposed battery industry. Looking ahead, we are excited about developing more products and expanding our operations into markets where our BESS can make the most significant impact, especially in regions with high renewable energy adoption or where the grid needs stabilization and upgrades.
CoMotion: Where are you operational?
Sumreen Rattan: Moment Energy is currently operational across North America, with our systems actively being deployed in diverse settings, from EV charging projects at Vancouver International Airport to commercial peak shaving and industrial backup power applications. In 2025, we will continue to deliver exceptional solutions across North America, meeting the growing demand for reliable battery energy storage.
“My advice to entrepreneurs is to be willing to take risks, growth doesn’t happen without stepping out of your comfort zone.”
CoMotion: What advice would you give to entrepreneurs looking to build and gain traction with their startup?
Sumreen Rattan: My advice to entrepreneurs is to be willing to take risks, growth doesn’t happen without stepping out of your comfort zone. Put a strong focus on hiring people who not only believe in your mission but are willing to work just as hard as you to fulfil it. Your team will be the backbone of your success. And remember, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Build a strong network of people who’ve successfully scaled startups before and who truly understand your industry. Their insights and experience will be invaluable as you navigate the challenges of building and growing your company.
CoMotion: Within the world of future mobility, apart from innovative energy storage systems, what developments are exciting you?
Sumreen Rattan: I’m excited about the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. It’s amazing to see how quickly EVs are becoming the norm. I’m also really looking forward to autonomous vehicles hitting the road; it’s a game-changer for efficiency and safety. Another development that excites me is the growing investment in public transit. I’m a huge advocate for well-connected, reliable transit infrastructure, and it’s something North America has lagged behind in for far too long. Improving public transit will play a crucial role in building sustainable cities.
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