Powin May Lay Off 245 Workers as Business Faces Uncertainty

TUALATIN, Ore. — Powin, a Tualatin-based energy storage company, announced on Friday that it may cease operations and lay off a total of 245 employees, including 96 in Oregon and 149 remote workers, by July 28, 2025.

The notice was sent to state and local officials, detailing the potential layoffs amid “unforeseen business circumstances.” Powin’s challenges come despite raising an estimated $235 million since 2021 from various investors.

In a letter signed by Powin’s Vice President for Human Resources, Scott Getman, the company indicated that if its financial situation does not improve, layoffs will be unavoidable. “If Powin LLC’s present business circumstances do not improve, it is currently anticipated that a layoff will occur,” the letter stated.

Founded in 2010, Powin specializes in large-capacity battery systems mainly for grid-scale energy storage. The company indicated that its operations have been significantly affected by the economic climate and uncertainties related to trade policies.

CEO Jeff Waters expressed concerns regarding the battery manufacturing landscape in the U.S., especially tied to tariffs and the possible reduction of renewable energy incentives implemented under previous administrations. He noted that while domestic manufacturing is expected to increase, there may be delays in production ramp-up.

Powin’s battery technology primarily relies on lithium-ion cells sourced from suppliers, including CATL, a Chinese manufacturer. Recently, CATL filed a complaint regarding payment issues related to battery sales in 2023, adding to the company’s financial strain.

The announcement follows a trend in the American battery industry, where other companies, like ESS Tech, have recently reported similar struggles amid economic and regulatory challenges impacting the sector.

As Powin navigates these difficulties, it remains to be seen how these issues will unfold over the coming weeks. The company did not provide further details or a response regarding its potential future operations.