Sparkz is working to complete plans for its first GigaCampus location in California’s Central Valley to produce its high energy-density battery and plans to initially employ 500 workers.
UAW President Shawn Fain said workers across the battery supply chain from electric vehicles to agricultural equipment should have the right to organize.
“We applaud Sparkz for doing the right thing in agreeing not to interfere with workers’ right to join a union, and look forward to winning a strong contract that sets the standard for the battery industry,” he said in a statement.
California will be the first location for the company union partnership.
“We have to ensure the hardworking people who build our world-class economy are valued and prioritized,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement.
Sparkz announced plans in August 2022 to establish material processing and module and cell production in West Virginia. It said it will continue work with the United Mine Workers of America in West Virginia on that project aiming to help coal workers transition to new energy jobs.
