A proposed €1.2 billion battery factory in Šurany, southern Slovakia, is facing mounting opposition from local residents who fear the negative impact the facility may have on their community. The factory, a joint venture between Chinese company Gotion and Slovak firm InoBat, would be Slovakia’s first major battery production facility, primarily serving the electric vehicle market. However, locals are pushing back, citing concerns over truck traffic, pollution, and the potential arrival of foreign workers.
Residents from Šurany, Bánov, and neighboring villages have organized a petition against the project, calling on Prime Minister Robert Fico to intervene. Many argue that the risks to public health and the environment far outweigh the economic benefits. "The societal damage will be irreversible," the civic group Chránime si naše (We Protect Our Own) stated in an open letter, highlighting concerns about safety, environmental impact, and transparency surrounding the project.
Thousands have already signed the petition, asserting that the state’s support for the factory contradicts the interests of the local population. “The risks, whether environmental or health-related, are disproportionately greater than any potential advantages,” organizers claim.
In response, GIB EnergyX, the joint venture behind the project, acknowledged the concerns but defended the development. "Our project complies fully with all laws and regulations and will bring significant economic and technological benefits while maintaining the highest standards of environmental safety," the company said in a statement.
The journey to establish Slovakia's first battery factory has been a challenging one. Initially, manufacturers showed little interest, despite Slovakia’s status as a top car producer. After lengthy discussions, Šurany was chosen due to its suitable infrastructure, flat terrain, and proximity to the Mochovce nuclear power plant, which offers a stable energy supply. However, this has not assuaged the worries of many locals, who continue to voice their opposition as the debate intensifies.
