2022 ended with a record turnover for the Sunlight Group, which creates energy storage solutions for industrial and off-highway applications. In particular, consolidated turnover increased by 53.2% to 416.5 million euros and set a record, due to stronger demand and higher selling prices. Combined with a revaluation of the cost of key materials and energy, Sunlight’s consolidated gross profit increased 62% year-on-year to €81.4 million.

According to what the group management mentions in last year’s financial report, the increase in profitability is due to the effect of the product mix and the increase in sales of industrial lead-acid batteries for traction applications (note: they are used for industrial use by trucks, etc. etc.). P.). And also in the implementation of the acquisition plan to expand the group in strategically important markets, as well as to verticalize its production process. For example, about a year ago, an industrial group acquired 80% of the share capital of the Italian group PBM Holding. In July 2022, it acquired 51% of the German company A.Müller.

A €135 million research project to develop innovative lithium batteries for the energy storage industry is in full swing.

Last year, compared to 2021 on a consolidated basis, Sunlight’s earnings before taxes, interest and amortization (Ebitda) increased by 41.2% to 34.1 million euros, while earnings before taxes and interest (Ebit) was 21.1 million euros (+ 38%). The group shows an accumulated profit of 12.6 million euros and equity of 153.4 million euros.

As stated in the 2022 financial report, inflation and high levels of energy prices, which have already emerged in the last quarter of 2021, have put strong pressure on costs and operating profitability, despite the group’s ability to effectively absorb and systematically adjust selling prices for its products.

Last year, the group invested a total of 83.3 million euros in stationary equipment to expand the capacity and automate processes and systems for the production of lead and lithium batteries at the parent company’s industrial complex in Xanthi. As well as the completion of a lead-acid battery assembly plant in North Carolina, USA, and the acquisition of a new manufacturing facility for a second lithium battery assembly plant in Mebane, Alamance County, North Carolina, USA. A €105.26 million research project of common European interest to develop lithium battery innovations for the energy storage sector is also well under way. However, the total investment has increased to 135 million euros as the group invests an additional 30 million euros. Last year, Sunlight’s operating and capital expenditures for the project were €7.3 million and €3.5 million, respectively. More broadly, the Sunlight Group’s global expansion strategy includes a $150 million investment for further development in the United States of America. Sunlight employs more than 1,700 people who spent €53.3 million on payroll and taxes in 2022.