ESS Tech, Inc.

Previous wording

As of March 31, 2025, we had limited deployment of our energy storage products and there may be significant yield, cost, performance and manufacturing process challenges to be solved as we ramp up commercial production and use. Our core technology components in the Energy Warehouse, the Energy Center and the Energy Base products are also still under development for integration into third-party systems. We have encountered and are likely to further encounter engineering challenges as we seek to increase the capacity, duration, efficiency and reliability of our batteries. If we are not able to overcome these barriers in developing and producing our iron flow batteries, our business could fail. If the performance characteristics or other specifications of the batteries fall short of our targets, our sales, product pricing and margins would likely be adversely affected.

Current wording

As of June 30, 2025, we had limited deployment of our energy storage products and there may be significant yield, cost, performance and manufacturing process challenges to be solved as we ramp up commercial production and use. Our core technology components are also still under development for integration into third-party systems. We have encountered and are likely to further encounter engineering challenges as we seek to increase the capacity, duration, efficiency and reliability of our batteries. If we are not able to overcome these barriers in developing and producing our iron flow batteries, our business could fail. If the performance characteristics or other specifications of the batteries fall short of our targets, our sales, product pricing and margins would likely be adversely affected.

Previous wording

The growth and development of our operations will depend on the successful commercialization and market acceptance of our energy storage products and our ability to manufacture products at scale while timely meeting customers’ demands.

Current wording

The growth and development of our operations will depend on the successful commercialization and market acceptance of our energy storage products and our ability to manufacture products at scale while timely meeting customers’ demands. There is no certainty that, once shipped, our products will operate over the long term as expected, and we may not be able

Previous wording

There is no certainty that, once shipped, our products will operate over the long term as expected, and we may not be able to generate sufficient customer confidence in our latest designs and ongoing product improvements or to perform under our contracts with customers. There are inherent uncertainties in our ability to predict future demand for our energy storage products and, as a consequence, we may have inadequate production capacity to meet demand, or alternatively, have excess available capacity. Our inability to predict the extent of customer adoption of our proprietary technologies in the already-established traditional energy storage market makes it difficult to evaluate our future prospects.

Current wording

31 - to generate sufficient customer confidence in our latest designs and ongoing product improvements or to perform under our contracts with customers. There are inherent uncertainties in our ability to predict future demand for our energy storage products and, as a consequence, we may have inadequate production capacity to meet demand, or alternatively, have excess available capacity. Our inability to predict the extent of customer adoption of our proprietary technologies in the already-established traditional energy storage market makes it difficult to evaluate our future prospects.

Previous wording

As of March 31, 2025, we had limited Energy Warehouse products fully deployed and only initial deliveries and deployment of our Energy Center products. Production and productized versions of our core component technology are still under development. We have experienced various quality and performance issues with units that have been installed and although we have worked to repair or replace any known issues, our inability to address these or potential new issues effectively may have cost and warranty implications and may affect the acceptance of our products in the market. In addition, although we believe our iron flow battery technology is field tested and ready for sale, there are no assurances that our proprietary technologies, such as our Proton Pump, will operate as expected and with consistency over time. We have also experienced grid compatibility and other site integration issues that are not within our control, which has required and will continue to require an adjustment of our power electronics and energy management system interface on a site-by-site basis. Certain operational characteristics have never been witnessed in the field and as we deploy more of our products, we may discover further aspects of our technology that require improvement. Any of these issues could delay existing contracts and new sales, result in order cancellations, result in significant warranty obligations, and negatively impact the market’s acceptance of our technology. If we experience significant delays, order cancellations or warranty claims, or if we fail to develop and install our energy storage products in accordance with contract specifications, then our operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected. In addition, there is no assurance that if we alter or change our energy storage products in the future, that the demand for these new products will develop, which could adversely affect our business and revenues. If our energy storage products are not deemed desirable and suitable for purchase and we are unable to establish a customer base, we may not be able to generate significant revenues or attain profitability.

Current wording

As of June 30, 2025, we had limited Energy Warehouse products fully deployed and only initial deliveries and deployment of our Energy Center products. Production and productized versions of our Energy Base product and core component technology are still under development. We have experienced various quality and performance issues with units that have been installed and although we have worked to repair or replace any known issues, our inability to address these or potential new issues effectively may have cost and warranty implications and may affect the acceptance of our products in the market. In addition, although we believe our iron flow battery technology is field tested and ready for sale, there are no assurances that our proprietary technologies, such as our Proton Pump, will operate as expected and with consistency over time. We have also experienced grid compatibility and other site integration issues that are not within our control, which has required and will continue to require an adjustment of our power electronics and energy management system interface on a site-by-site basis. Certain operational characteristics have never been witnessed in the field and as we deploy more of our products, we may discover further aspects of our technology that require improvement. Any of these issues could delay existing contracts and new sales, result in order cancellations, result in significant warranty obligations, and negatively impact the market’s acceptance of our technology. If we experience significant delays, order cancellations or warranty claims, or if we fail to develop and install our energy storage products in accordance with contract specifications, then our operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected. In addition, there is no assurance that if we alter or change our energy storage products in the future, that the demand for these new products will develop, which could adversely affect our business and revenues. If our energy storage products are not deemed desirable and suitable for purchase and we are unable to establish a customer base, we may not be able to generate significant revenues or attain profitability.

Previous wording

We depend on third-party suppliers for the development and supply of key raw materials and components for our energy storage products, including power module components (e.g., bipolar plates, frames, end plates and separators), shipping containers, chemicals and electronic components. We will need to maintain and significantly grow our access to key raw materials and control our related costs. We use various raw materials and components to construct our energy storage products, including polypropylene, iron and potassium chloride, that are critical to our manufacturing process. We also rely on third-party suppliers for injected molded parts and power electronics which undergo a qualification process that can take months.

Current wording

We depend on third-party suppliers for the development and supply of key raw materials and components for our energy storage products, including power module components (e.g., bipolar plates, frames, end plates and separators), shipping containers, chemicals and electronic components. We will need to maintain and significantly grow our access to key raw materials and control our related costs. We use various raw materials and components to construct our energy storage products, including polypropylene, iron and potassium chloride, that are critical to our manufacturing process. We also rely on third-party suppliers for injection molded parts and power electronics which undergo a qualification process that can take months.

Previous wording

The cost of components for our iron flow batteries, whether manufactured by our suppliers or by us, depends in part upon the prices and availability of raw materials. In recent periods, we have seen an increase in costs for a wide range of materials and components and such increases may continue, particularly if we again experience high rates of inflation. Additionally, supply chain disruptions and access to materials have impacted and continue to impact our vendors and suppliers’ ability to deliver materials and components to us in a timely manner. We have experienced significant disruptions to key supply chains, shipping times, shipping availability, manufacturing times, and increases in associated costs, both with respect to the sourcing of supplies and the delivery of our products. We have experienced and may continue to experience supply chain issues, delays to deliveries, and vendor quality issues, as well as increases in our supply costs of many of our key components, including polypropylene, resin, power electronics, circuit board components and shipping containers. Such issues have also affected the ramping up of our automated production line. If we experience similar issues in the future, including any delays of deliveries of additional manufacturing automation equipment that we require, they may further delay our ability to produce and deliver our products and to recognize additional revenue, particularly for our larger scale Energy Center products (see also “Part I. Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Components of Results of Operations—Revenue”).

Current wording

The cost of components for our iron flow batteries, whether manufactured by our suppliers or by us, depends in part upon the prices and availability of raw materials. In recent periods, we have seen an increase in costs for a wide range of materials and components and such increases may continue, particularly if we again experience high rates of inflation. Additionally, supply chain disruptions and access to materials have impacted and continue to impact our vendors and suppliers’ ability to deliver materials and components to us in a timely manner. We have experienced significant disruptions to key supply chains, shipping times, shipping availability, manufacturing times, and increases in associated costs, both with respect to the sourcing of supplies and the delivery of our products. We have experienced and may continue to experience supply chain issues, delays to deliveries, and vendor quality issues, as well as increases in our supply costs of many of our key components, including polypropylene, resin, power electronics, circuit board components and shipping containers. Such issues have also affected the ramping up of our automated production line. If we experience similar issues in the future, including any delays of deliveries of additional manufacturing automation equipment that we require, they may further delay our ability to produce and deliver our products and to recognize additional revenue (see also “Part I. Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Components of Results of Operations—Revenue”).

Previous wording

29 - manufacture our products and any further increases in their prices may reduce our profitability if we cannot recoup the increased costs through increased prices for our products. In addition, we utilize shipping containers to house our iron flow batteries within our Energy Warehouse and Energy Center products. Shipping delays caused by various economic, weather and COVID-19 pandemic effects created a shortage in shipping containers and other supply chain delays in the past and may again in the future. We have limited visibility into these supply chain disruptions and increased shipping container costs. Given that our product currently relies on the availability of shipping containers, such shortages may reduce our profitability if we are not able to pass the increased costs to our customers. Moreover, any such attempts to increase product prices may be difficult to achieve and even if achieved, may harm our brand, prospects and operating results.

Current wording

32 - manufacture our products and any further increases in their prices may reduce our profitability if we cannot recoup the increased costs through increased prices for our products.

Previous wording

Our ability to become profitable in the future will not only depend on our ability to successfully market our products but also to control our manufacturing costs. If we are unsuccessful in our cost-reduction plans or if we experience design or manufacturing defects or other failures as a result of these design changes, we could incur significant manufacturing and re-engineering costs. In addition, we will require significant capital to further develop and grow our business and expect to incur significant expenses, including those relating to research and development, raw material procurement, leases, sales and distribution as we build our brand and market our products, and general and administrative costs as we scale our operations. If we are unable to cost-efficiently design, manufacture, market, sell and distribute our energy storage products, our margins, profitability and prospects would be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

Our ability to become profitable in the future will not only depend on our ability to successfully market our products but also to control our manufacturing costs. If we are unsuccessful in our cost-reduction plans or if we experience design or manufacturing defects or other failures as a result of these design changes, we could incur significant manufacturing and re-engineering costs. In addition, we will require significant capital to further develop and grow our business and expect to incur significant expenses, including those relating to research and development, raw material procurement, leases, sales

Previous wording

We rely heavily on complex machinery for our operations and manufacturing and this equipment has not yet been used before for the large-scale manufacturing of iron flow battery products. The work required to integrate this equipment into the production of our iron flow battery product is time intensive and requires us to work closely with the equipment provider to ensure that it works properly for our unique iron flow battery technology. This integration work will involve a significant degree of uncertainty and risk and may result in a delay in the scaling up of production or result in additional cost to our iron flow batteries.

Current wording

We rely heavily on complex machinery for our operations and manufacturing and we are pioneering the use of this equipment for the large-scale manufacturing of iron flow battery products. The work required to integrate this equipment into the production of our iron flow battery product is time intensive and requires us to work closely with the equipment provider to ensure that it works properly for our unique iron flow battery technology. This integration work will involve a significant degree of uncertainty and risk and may result in a delay in the scaling up of production or result in additional cost to our iron flow batteries.

Previous wording

Our manufacturing facility utilizes large-scale machinery, particularly for the automated production line. Such machinery is likely to suffer unexpected malfunctions from time to time and will require repairs and spare parts to resume operations, which may not be available when needed. Unexpected malfunctions of our production equipment may significantly affect the intended operational efficiency or yield. Some examples would be inadequate bonding of the battery cells resulting in overboard or internal leakage, damage to the separator, or cracked bipolar or monopolar plates. In addition, because this equipment has never been used to build iron flow battery products, the operational performance and costs associated with this equipment can be difficult to predict and may be influenced by factors outside of our control, such as, but not limited to, failures by suppliers to deliver necessary components of our energy storage products in a timely manner and at prices and volumes acceptable to us, environmental hazards and remediation, difficulty or delays in obtaining governmental permits, damages or defects in systems, industrial accidents, fires, seismic activity and other natural disasters.

Current wording

Our manufacturing facility utilizes large-scale machinery, particularly for the automated production line. Such machinery is likely to suffer unexpected malfunctions from time to time and will require repairs and spare parts to resume operations, which may not be available when needed. Unexpected malfunctions of our production equipment may significantly affect the intended operational efficiency or yield. Some examples would be inadequate bonding of the battery cells resulting in overboard or internal leakage, damage to the separator, or cracked bipolar or monopolar plates. In addition, because this equipment has limited history building iron flow battery products, the operational performance and costs associated with this equipment can be difficult to predict and may be influenced by factors outside of our control, such as, but not limited to, failures by suppliers to deliver necessary components of our energy storage products in a timely manner and at prices

Previous wording

Our ability to expand our manufacturing capacity would also greatly depend on our ability to hire, train and retain an adequate number of manufacturing employees, in particular employees with the appropriate level of knowledge, background and skills. Should we be unable to hire, train, or retain such employees, our business and financial results could be negatively impacted.

Current wording

Our ability to expand our manufacturing capacity would also greatly depend on our ability to hire, train and retain an adequate number of manufacturing employees, in particular employees with the appropriate level of knowledge,

Previous wording

Our energy storage products require periodic maintenance or refurbishment, such as the cleaning or replacement of air filters or other components, inspection and re-torquing of electrical or mechanical fasteners, and the replenishment of hydrogen. Maintenance items are intended to be scheduled on a periodic basis but may vary depending on system operations. We currently rely on our customers that do not have service agreements with us or that perform maintenance that is not covered by such agreements to follow our product operations and maintenance manuals. We have had, and in the future may continue to have, incidents of failure to maintain or perform required maintenance correctly that damage or adversely affect the performance of our energy storage products and/or result in the leakage of electrolyte. In addition, we have had, and in the future may continue to have, components such as our electrolyte rebalancing cell that have a shorter service life than anticipated and require replacement in lieu of maintenance. Furthermore, there is risk of harm to persons or property if individuals performing maintenance do not follow applicable maintenance or safety protocols. Any such incident or harm would likely lead to adverse publicity and potentially a safety recall, decisions or mandates to temporarily halt production or implement an extended suspension of field operations, and expenses related to carrying out site remediation, revising our training programs and updating our maintenance manual, and could also adversely affect our reputation, customer’s willingness to place future orders, our operating results and prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our energy storage products require periodic maintenance or refurbishment, such as the cleaning or replacement of air filters or other components, inspection and re-torquing of electrical or mechanical fasteners, and the replenishment of hydrogen. Maintenance items are intended to be scheduled on a periodic basis but may vary depending on system operations. We currently rely on our customers that do not have service agreements with us or that perform maintenance that is not covered by such agreements to follow our product operations and maintenance manuals. In addition, we have had, and in the future may continue to have, components such as our electrolyte rebalancing cell that have a shorter service life than anticipated and require replacement in lieu of maintenance. Furthermore, there is risk of harm to persons or property if individuals performing maintenance do not follow applicable maintenance or safety protocols. Any such incident or harm would likely lead to adverse publicity and potentially a safety recall, decisions or mandates to temporarily halt production or implement an extended suspension of field operations, and expenses related to carrying out site remediation, revising our training programs and updating our maintenance manual, and could also adversely affect our reputation, customer’s willingness to place future orders, our operating results and prospects, business, financial condition and results of operations. We have had, and in the future may continue to have, incidents of failure to maintain or perform required maintenance correctly that damage or adversely affect the performance of our energy storage products and/or result in the leakage of electrolyte. For example, the performance of maintenance procedures out of sequence by Company personnel in the past led to an over-pressurization event at a customer site and a sudden release of the cap to the electrolyte storage tank. The tank was not otherwise damaged and no injuries occurred, but the incident resulted in a significant spill event that we promptly reported and has since been closed with the county of jurisdiction. We conducted a full investigation and have implemented remediation steps but there is risk of damage to product or property or personal injury if such steps are not followed in the future.

Previous wording

33 - uncertainties and contingencies, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict and many of which are beyond our control, and subsequent developments may affect such expectations. As discussed elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, any future sales and related future cash flows may not be realized in full or at all. Furthermore, our planned expansion into new revenue streams such as franchising opportunities for our energy storage products may never be realized or achieve commercial success, whether because of lack of market adoption of our energy storage products, competition or otherwise. Important factors that may affect the actual results and cause our operating and financial results and market growth expectations to not be achieved include risks and uncertainties relating to our business, industry performance, the regulatory environment, general business and economic conditions and other factors described under the section entitled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Current wording

We operate in rapidly changing and competitive markets and our expectations for future performance are subject to the risks and assumptions made by management with respect to our industry. Operating results are difficult to predict because they generally depend on our assessment of the timing of adoption of our technology and energy storage products, which is uncertain. Expectations for future performance are also subject to significant economic, competitive, industry and other uncertainties and contingencies, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict and many of which are beyond our control, and subsequent developments may affect such expectations. As discussed elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, any future sales and related future cash flows may not be realized in full or at all. Furthermore, our planned expansion into new revenue streams such as franchising opportunities for our energy storage products may never be

Previous wording

We have had net losses on a U.S. GAAP basis in each fiscal year since our inception. For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, we had $18.0 million and $18.3 million in net losses, respectively, and as of March 31, 2025 we had $800.4 million in accumulated deficit. In order to achieve profitability as well as long-term commercial success, we must continue to execute our plan to expand our business, which will require us to deliver on our existing global sales pipeline in a timely manner, increase our production capacity, reduce our manufacturing and warranty costs, competitively price and grow demand for our products, and seize new market opportunities by leveraging our proprietary technology and our manufacturing processes for novel solutions and new products. Failure to do one or more of these things could prevent us from achieving sustained, long-term profitability.

Current wording

We have had net losses on a U.S. GAAP basis in each fiscal year since our inception. For the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, we had $29.1 million and $40.3 million in net losses, respectively, and as of June 30, 2025 we had $811.5 million in accumulated deficit. In order to achieve profitability as well as long-term commercial success, we must continue to execute our plan to expand our business, which will require us to deliver on our existing global sales pipeline in a timely manner, increase our production capacity, reduce our manufacturing and warranty costs, competitively price and grow demand for our products, and seize new market opportunities by leveraging our proprietary technology and our manufacturing processes for novel solutions and new products. Failure to do one or more of these things could prevent us from achieving sustained, long-term profitability.

Previous wording

We will require substantial additional funds to continue our operations. Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments were $12.8 million at March 31, 2025. Given our planned expenditures for the next year, we have concluded, and our independent registered public accounting firm has agreed with our conclusion that there is a substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least 12 months beyond the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any such inability to continue as a going concern may result in our stockholders losing their entire investment. There is no guarantee that we will become profitable or secure additional financing on acceptable terms. Further, the inclusion of disclosures expressing substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern could materially adversely affect our stock price and our ability to raise new capital or enter into partnerships or other agreements.

Current wording

We will require substantial additional funds to continue our operations. Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments were $0.8 million at June 30, 2025. Given our recurring history of losses and an insufficient amount of cash available to fund our ongoing operations for the next year, we have concluded that there is a substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least 12 months beyond the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any such inability to continue as a going concern may result in our stockholders losing their entire investment. There is no guarantee that we will become profitable or secure additional financing on acceptable terms. Further, the inclusion of disclosures expressing substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern could materially adversely affect our stock price and our ability to raise new capital or enter into partnerships or other agreements.

Previous wording

34 - determination may be difficult to obtain. The potentially long wait from the time an order is made until the time our energy storage products are delivered, and any delays beyond expected wait times, could also impact user decisions on whether to ultimately make a purchase. There is no assurance that nonbinding pre-orders or framework agreements will be converted into binding orders or sales. Even if we are able to obtain binding orders, customers may limit their volume of purchases initially as they assess our products and whether to make a broader transition to our energy storage products. This may be a long process and will depend on the safety, reliability, efficiency and quality of our energy storage products, as well as the support and service that we offer. It will also depend on factors outside of our control, such as general market conditions and site capacity, that could impact customer buying decisions. As a result, there is significant uncertainty regarding demand for our energy storage products and the pace and levels of growth that we will be able to achieve.

Current wording

Our business model is focused on building relationships with large customers. To date, we have engaged in limited marketing activities and we have only a limited number of contracts with customers. Certain of our energy storage products are still subject to further design evolution and until the time that the design and development of our energy storage products stabilizes, and until we are able to scale up our marketing function to support sales, there will be uncertainty as to customer demand for our energy storage products. Demand for our energy storage products by independent energy developers may depend upon a bankability determination by institutional sources of project finance capital and that determination may be difficult to obtain. The potentially long wait from the time an order is made until the time our energy storage products are delivered, and any delays beyond expected wait times, could also impact user decisions on whether to ultimately make a purchase. There is no assurance that nonbinding pre-orders or framework agreements will be converted into binding orders or sales. Even if we are able to obtain binding orders, customers may limit their volume of purchases initially as they assess our products and whether to make a broader transition to our energy storage products. This may be a

Previous wording

In addition, some of the Energy Warehouse units we have shipped to date have not met the specifications set forth in the purchase contracts for such units, resulting in additional installation time and costs in order to receive customer acceptance of such units. If we are unable to meet contractual performance specifications of our units, customers may bring claims against us or choose to cancel or postpone orders, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

In addition, some of the systems we have shipped to date have not met the specifications set forth in the relevant purchase contracts, resulting in additional installation time and costs in order to receive customer acceptance of such units. If we are unable to meet contractual performance specifications of our units, customers may bring claims against us or choose to cancel or postpone orders, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

35 - customers will accept iron flow batteries as a replacement for traditional power sources. In particular, traditional lithium-ion batteries, which are already produced on a large global scale and have widespread market acceptance, offer higher power density and round-trip efficiency than our iron flow batteries. If customers were to place greater value on power density and round-trip efficiency over what we believe to be the numerous other advantages of our technology, then we could have difficulty positioning our iron flow batteries as a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries and our business would suffer.

Current wording

Our plans are dependent upon market acceptance of our products and our ability to effectively educate potential customers on the benefits of our technology. Iron flow batteries represent an emerging market, and we cannot be sure that potential customers will accept iron flow batteries as a replacement for traditional power sources. In particular, traditional lithium-ion batteries, which are already produced on a large global scale and have widespread market acceptance, offer higher power density and round-trip efficiency than our iron flow batteries. If customers were to place greater value on power density and round-trip efficiency over what we believe to be the numerous other advantages of our technology, then we could have difficulty positioning our iron flow batteries as a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries and our business would suffer.

Previous wording

36 - can to new or emerging technologies. These competitors may engage in more extensive research and development efforts, undertake more far-reaching marketing campaigns and adopt more aggressive pricing policies, which may allow them to more effectively compete for new energy storage projects and customers.

Current wording

Some of our current and potential competitors have longer operating histories and greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than we do. These factors may allow our competitors to respond more quickly or efficiently than we can to new or emerging technologies. These competitors may engage in more extensive research and development efforts, undertake more far-reaching marketing campaigns and adopt more aggressive pricing policies, which may allow them to more effectively compete for new energy storage projects and customers.

Previous wording

We are a company with a limited operating history. Having only recently transitioned from research and development activities to commencing commercial production and sales, it is difficult to predict our future revenues and appropriately budget for our expenses, and we may have limited insight into trends that may emerge and affect our business. We anticipate being required to provide expectations of our demand to our current and future suppliers prior to the scheduled delivery of products to potential customers. Currently, there is limited historical basis for making judgments on the demand for our products and services or our ability to develop, manufacture, and deliver iron flow batteries, or our profitability in the future. If we overestimate our manufacturing requirements, our suppliers may have excess inventory, which indirectly would increase our costs. If we underestimate our manufacturing requirements, our suppliers may have inadequate inventory or capacity, which could interrupt manufacturing of our products and result in delays in shipments and revenues. In addition, lead times for materials and components that our suppliers order may vary significantly and depend on factors such as the specific supplier, contract terms and demand for each component at a given time. If we fail to order sufficient

Current wording

We are a company with a limited operating history. Having only recently transitioned from research and development activities to commencing commercial production and sales, it is difficult to predict our future revenues and appropriately budget for our expenses, and we may have limited insight into trends that may emerge and affect our business. We anticipate being required to provide expectations of our demand to our current and future suppliers prior to the scheduled delivery of products to potential customers. Currently, there is limited historical basis for making judgments on the demand for our products and services or our ability to develop, manufacture, and deliver iron flow batteries, or our profitability in the future. If we overestimate our manufacturing requirements, our suppliers may have excess inventory, which indirectly would increase our costs. If we underestimate our manufacturing requirements, our suppliers may have inadequate inventory or capacity, which could interrupt manufacturing of our products and result in delays in shipments and revenues. In addition, lead times for materials and components that our suppliers order may vary significantly and depend on factors such as the specific supplier, contract terms and demand for each component at a given time. If we fail to order sufficient quantities of product components in a timely manner, the delivery of batteries to our potential customers could be delayed, which would harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We intend to continue to expand our business significantly within existing and new markets. This growth has placed, and any future growth may place, a significant strain on management, operational, and financial infrastructure. In particular, we will be required to expand, train, and manage our growing employee base and scale and otherwise improve our information technology (“IT”) infrastructure in tandem with that headcount growth. Management will also be required to maintain and expand our relationships with customers, suppliers, and other third parties and attract new customers and suppliers, as well as manage multiple geographic locations.

Current wording

We intend to continue to expand our business significantly within existing and new markets. This growth has placed, and any future growth may place, a significant strain on management, operational, and financial infrastructure. In particular, we will be required to expand, train, and manage any new employees and scale and otherwise improve our information technology (“IT”) infrastructure in tandem with any headcount growth. Management will also be required to maintain and expand our relationships with customers, suppliers, and other third parties and attract new customers and suppliers, as well as manage multiple geographic locations.

Previous wording

We compete on the basis of our energy storage products’ reliability, efficiency, environmental sustainability and cost. Technological advances in alternative energy products, improvements in the electric grid or other sources of power generation, or new battery technologies or market entrants may negatively affect the development or sale of some or all of our energy storage products or make our energy storage products less economically attractive, non-competitive or obsolete prior to or after commercialization. Significant decreases in the price of alternative technologies, or significant increases in

Current wording

We compete on the basis of our energy storage products’ reliability, efficiency, environmental sustainability and cost. Technological advances in alternative energy products, improvements in the electric grid or other sources of power generation, or new battery technologies or market entrants may negatively affect the development or sale of some or all of our energy storage products or make our energy storage products less economically attractive, non-competitive or obsolete prior to or after commercialization. Significant decreases in the price of alternative technologies, or significant increases in the price of the materials we use to build our energy storage products could have a material adverse effect on our business because other generation sources could be more economically attractive to consumers than our energy storage products.

Previous wording

Additionally, our ability to attract qualified personnel, including senior management and key technical personnel, is critical to the execution of our growth strategy. Competition in the labor market, including for qualified senior management personnel and highly skilled individuals with technical expertise, is intense. We face and are likely to continue to face challenges identifying, hiring, and retaining qualified personnel in all areas of our business, and we can provide no assurance that we will find suitable successors as transitions occur. In addition, integrating new employees into our team, and key personnel in particular, could prove disruptive to our operations, require substantial resources and management attention, and ultimately prove unsuccessful. Our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel in all areas of our business, including senior management and other key technical personnel, could limit or delay our strategic efforts, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The failure to ensure a smooth transition to a permanent Chief Executive Officer when identified could also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Additionally, our ability to attract qualified personnel, including senior management and key technical personnel, is critical to the execution of our growth strategy. Competition in the labor market, including for qualified senior management personnel and highly skilled individuals with technical expertise, is intense. We face and are likely to continue to face challenges identifying, hiring, and retaining qualified personnel in all areas of our business, and we can provide no assurance that we will find suitable successors as transitions occur. In addition, integrating new employees into our team, and key personnel in particular, could prove disruptive to our operations, require substantial resources and management attention, and ultimately prove unsuccessful. Our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel in all areas of our business, including senior management and other key technical personnel, could limit or delay our strategic efforts, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The failure to ensure a smooth transition to a permanent Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer when identified could also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We currently are and in the foreseeable future will continue to be significantly dependent on revenue generated from our Energy Center and newly launched Energy Base products and the servicing thereof while our core component technology productization and future product offerings are under development. Given that our business currently depends on a limited number of products to the extent our products are not well-received by the market, our sales volume, business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

We currently are and in the foreseeable future will continue to be significantly dependent on revenue generated from our newly launched Energy Base product and the servicing thereof while our core component technology productization and future product offerings are under development. Given that our business currently depends on a limited number of products to the extent our products are not well-received by the market, our sales volume, business, financial condition and results of operations would be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

Any outbreaks of contagious diseases and other adverse public health developments in countries where we and our suppliers operate, could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic resulted in, and any future pandemic or adverse public health development may again result in, disruptions to or restrictions on our workforce and facilities or those of our customers, suppliers, or other vendors in our supply chain.

Current wording

The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic resulted in, and any future pandemic or adverse public health development may again result in, disruptions to or restrictions on our workforce and facilities or those of our customers, suppliers, or other vendors in our supply chain.

Previous wording

As a public company, we are required to comply with the SEC’s rules implementing Sections 302 and 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), which requires management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and to provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of controls over financial reporting (see “Part I—Item 4. Controls and Procedures”). When evaluating our internal control over financial reporting, we may identify material weaknesses that we may not be able to remediate in time to meet the applicable deadline for compliance with the requirements of Section 404. If we are unable to identify and remediate material weaknesses, it could

Current wording

As a public company, we are required to comply with the SEC’s rules implementing Sections 302 and 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), which requires management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and to provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of controls over financial reporting (see “Part I—Item 4. Controls and Procedures”). When evaluating our internal control over financial reporting, we may identify material weaknesses that we may not be able to remediate in time to meet the applicable deadline for compliance with the requirements of Section 404. If we are unable to identify and remediate material weaknesses, which may be more challenging as the recent furlough included employees from our accounting department, it could result in material misstatements to our annual or interim financial statements that might not be prevented or detected on a timely basis or result in delayed filings of required periodic reports. If we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our common stock could be adversely affected and we could become subject to litigation or investigations by the NYSE, the SEC, or other regulatory authorities, which could require additional financial and management resources.

Previous wording

While we have accrued reserves for warranty claims, our estimated warranty costs for previously sold products may change to the extent future products are not compatible with earlier generation products under warranty. Our warranty accruals are based on various assumptions, which are based on a short operating history. As a result, these assumptions could prove to be materially different from the actual performance of our systems, causing us to incur substantial unanticipated expenses to repair or replace defective products in the future or to compensate customers for defective products. Our failure to accurately predict future claims could result in unexpected volatility in, and have a material adverse effect on, our financial condition.

Current wording

While we have accrued reserves for warranty claims, our estimated warranty costs for previously sold products may change to the extent future products are not compatible with earlier generation products under warranty. Our warranty accruals are based on various assumptions, which are based on a short operating history. As a result, these assumptions could prove to be materially different from the actual performance of our systems, causing us to incur substantial unanticipated expenses to repair or replace defective products in the future or to compensate customers for defective products. Our failure to

Previous wording

Any failure or perceived failure by us or our service providers to prevent information security breaches or other incidents or system disruptions, or any compromise of security that results in or is perceived or reported to result in unauthorized access to, or loss, theft, alteration, release or transfer of, our information, or any personal information, confidential information, or other data could result in loss or theft of proprietary or sensitive data and intellectual property, could harm our reputation and competitive position and could expose us to legal claims, regulatory investigations and proceedings, and fines, penalties, and other liability. Any such actual or perceived security breach, incident or system disruption could also divert the efforts of our personnel, and could require us to incur significant costs and operational consequences in connection with investigating, remediating, eliminating and putting in place additional tools, devices, policies, and other measures designed to prevent actual or perceived security breaches and other incidents and system disruptions, and in, for example, rebuilding internal systems, reduced inventory value, providing modifications to our products and services, defending against claims and litigation, responding to regulatory inquiries or actions, paying damages, or taking other remedial steps with respect to third parties. Moreover, we could be required or otherwise find it appropriate to expend significant capital and other resources to respond to, notify third parties of, and otherwise address the incident or breach and its root cause, and to notify individuals, regulatory authorities and others of security breaches involving certain types of data.

Current wording

Any failure or perceived failure by us or our service providers to prevent information security breaches or other incidents or system disruptions, or any compromise of security that results in or is perceived or reported to result in unauthorized access to, or loss, theft, alteration, release or transfer of, our information, or any personal information, confidential information, or other data could result in loss or theft of proprietary or sensitive data and intellectual property, could harm our reputation and competitive position and could expose us to legal claims, regulatory investigations and proceedings, and fines, penalties, and other liability. Any such actual or perceived security breach, incident or system disruption could also divert the efforts of our personnel, and could require us to incur significant costs and operational consequences in connection with investigating, remediating, eliminating and putting in place additional tools, devices, policies, and other measures designed to prevent actual or perceived security breaches and other incidents and system disruptions, and in, for example, rebuilding internal systems, reduced inventory value, providing modifications to our products and services,

Previous wording

The availability and effectiveness of our energy storage products and our ability to conduct our business and operations, depend on the continued operation of IT and communications systems, some of which we have yet to develop or otherwise obtain the ability to use. Systems used in our business, as well as systems used by third parties on which we rely, will be vulnerable to damage or interruption caused by power outages, climate change and natural disasters, and other factors beyond our control or which we do not presently anticipate, including technical defects or errors. Such systems could also be subject to break-ins, sabotage and intentional acts of vandalism, as well as disruptions and security incidents as a result of non-technical issues, including intentional or inadvertent acts or omissions by employees, service providers, or others. We expect to face significant challenges with respect to information security and maintaining the security and integrity of our systems and other systems used in our business, as well as with respect to the data stored on or processed by these

Current wording

The availability and effectiveness of our energy storage products and our ability to conduct our business and operations, depend on the continued operation of IT and communications systems, some of which we have yet to develop or otherwise obtain the ability to use. Systems used in our business, as well as systems used by third parties on which we rely, will be vulnerable to damage or interruption caused by power outages, climate change and natural disasters, and other factors beyond our control or which we do not presently anticipate, including technical defects or errors. Such systems could also be subject to break-ins, sabotage and intentional acts of vandalism, as well as disruptions and security incidents as a result of non-technical issues, including intentional or inadvertent acts or omissions by employees, service providers, or others. We expect to face significant challenges with respect to information security and maintaining the security and integrity of our systems and other systems used in our business, as well as with respect to the data stored on or processed by these systems. We also anticipate storing and otherwise processing confidential business information of ourselves and third parties, as well as personal information and other data. Advances in technology, an increased level of sophistication and expertise of hackers, and new discoveries in the field of cryptography can result in a compromise or breach of the systems used in our business or of security measures used in our business to protect confidential information, personal information, and other sensitive data, such as data that is subject to export control regulations and controlled unclassified information that is subject to other federal regulations. We may be a target for attacks by state-sponsored actors and others designed to disrupt our operations or to attempt to gain access to our systems or to data that is processed or maintained in our business.

Previous wording

A sustained or repeated interruption in the manufacturing of our products due to labor shortage, fire, flood, war, pandemic, natural disasters, regulatory requirements, and similar unforeseen events beyond our control may interfere with our ability to manufacture our products and fulfil customers’ demands in a timely manner, and make it difficult, or in certain cases, impossible for us to continue our business for a substantial period of time. Failure to manufacture our products and meet customer demands would impair our ability to generate revenues which would adversely affect our financial results. We currently do not have a formal disaster recovery or business continuity plan in place and any disaster recovery and business continuity plans that we may put in place may prove inadequate in the event of a serious disaster or similar event. As part of our risk management, we maintain insurance coverage for our business. However, we cannot assure you that the amount of insurance will be sufficient to satisfy any damages or losses we may incur. If our insurance coverage is not sufficient, we may incur substantial expenses, which, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

A sustained or repeated interruption in the manufacturing of our products due to labor shortage, fire, flood, war, pandemic, natural disasters, regulatory requirements, and similar unforeseen events beyond our control may interfere with our ability to manufacture our products and fulfill customers’ demands in a timely manner, and make it difficult, or in certain cases, impossible for us to continue our business for a substantial period of time. Failure to manufacture our products and meet customer demands would impair our ability to generate revenues which would adversely affect our financial results. We currently do not have a formal disaster recovery or business continuity plan in place and any disaster recovery and business continuity plans that we may put in place may prove inadequate in the event of a serious disaster or similar event. As part of our risk management, we maintain insurance coverage for our business. However, we cannot assure you that the amount of insurance will be sufficient to satisfy any damages or losses we may incur. If our insurance coverage is not sufficient, we may incur substantial expenses, which, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

While our current supply chain is largely domestic, it includes Chinese sources for various parts. Escalating trade tensions, particularly between the United States and China have led to increased tariffs and trade restrictions, including tariffs applicable to certain electronic materials and components of our products. This includes the 7.5% - 100% tariffs that the U.S. Trade Representative has imposed on certain imports from China since 2018, the additional 20% tariff on most Chinese-origin goods as implemented by the U.S. government beginning in February 2025 and amended in March 2025, and the 125% reciprocal tariff implemented by the U.S. government beginning in April 2025 that was subsequently reduced to 34% in May 2025 (with reciprocal tariff amounts over 10% further suspended for a period of 90 days). Further, the United States has implemented additional baseline tariffs (10%); additional sector-specific tariffs on industries such as steel, aluminum, automobiles, and automotive components (25%); and announced further intentions to place additional future tariffs on industries such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and consumer electronics. In addition, significant new tariffs of 25% on various imports from Canada and Mexico announced in February 2025, have been partially implemented with respect to non-USMCA-qualifying goods since March 2025. While larger reciprocal tariffs targeting a wider array of foreign countries (beyond the baseline 10%) have been temporarily paused pending further negotiations with affected countries, it is unclear whether or how U.S. tariff policy might change in the future. In addition, it is unclear how other countries may retaliate or respond to changing U.S. tariff policies.

Current wording

While our current supply chain is largely domestic, it includes Chinese sources for various parts. Escalating trade tensions, particularly between the United States and China have led to increased tariffs and trade restrictions, including tariffs applicable to certain electronic materials and components of our products. This includes the 7.5% - 100% Section 301 tariffs that the U.S. Trade Representative has imposed on certain imports from China since 2018, the additional 10% - 20% fentanyl-related tariff on most Chinese-origin goods as implemented by the U.S. government beginning in February 2025 and amended in March 2025, and the 10% - 125% reciprocal tariff implemented by the U.S. government beginning in April 2025. Further, the United States has implemented reciprocal tariffs on most other U.S. trading partners (10% since April 2025, with higher country-specific amounts for some trading partners since August 7, 2025); additional global sector-specific tariffs on steel and aluminum products (currently 50%), automobiles and automotive components (currently 25%), and copper products (currently 50%). The U.S. government has announced intentions to place additional future tariffs on

Previous wording

Tariffs and the possibility of additional tariffs in the future have created uncertainty, particularly if we are not able to second source parts from alternative vendors. There can be no guaranty that these developments will not negatively impact the price of the positive electrode used in our products. Additionally, existing, future, or potential tariffs may negatively affect key customers and suppliers, and other supply chain partners. Such outcomes could adversely affect the amount or timing of our revenues, results of operations or cash flows, and cause sales volatility, price fluctuations or supply shortages or cause our customers to advance or delay their purchase of our products.

Current wording

Tariffs and the possibility of additional tariffs in the future have created uncertainty, particularly if we are not able to second source parts from alternative vendors. There can be no guarantee that these developments will not negatively impact the price of the positive electrode used in our products. Additionally, existing, future, or potential tariffs may negatively affect key customers and suppliers, and other supply chain partners. Such outcomes could adversely affect the amount or timing of our revenues, results of operations or cash flows, and cause sales volatility, price fluctuations or supply shortages or cause our customers to advance or delay their purchase of our products.

Previous wording

We are in the process of qualifying alternative sources but anticipate it will take time before alternate sources are qualified for every component. Depending on the outcome of the tariffs that the Trump administration has implemented and may eventually implement on additional products and/or countries, our ability to secure alternative sources of components may be further limited in the future. In addition, such sources may charge a higher cost than our current suppliers, which would negatively impact our results of operations. There is no guaranty that we will be able to identify alternate suppliers that meet our quality, volume and price requirements. Failure to meet these requirements could result in supply disruptions and increased costs. It is difficult to predict what further trade-related actions governments may take, which may include additional or increased tariffs and trade restrictions, and we may be unable to react to such actions quickly and effectively, which could result in supply shortages and increased costs.

Current wording

We are in the process of qualifying alternative sources but anticipate it will take time before alternate sources are qualified for every component. Depending on the outcome of the tariffs that the Trump administration has implemented and may eventually implement on additional products and/or countries, our ability to secure alternative sources of components may be further limited in the future. In addition, such sources may charge a higher cost than our current suppliers, which would negatively impact our results of operations. There is no guarantee that we will be able to identify alternate suppliers that meet our quality, volume and price requirements. Failure to meet these requirements could result in supply disruptions and increased costs. It is difficult to predict what further trade-related actions governments may take, which may include additional or increased tariffs and trade restrictions, and we may be unable to react to such actions quickly, cheaply or effectively, which could result in supply shortages and increased costs.

Previous wording

44 - at a price disadvantage as compared with other non-U.S. suppliers if the U.S. dollar appreciates relative to other major foreign currencies. This could lead to our having to lower prices or our struggling to compete for international customers. Consequently, currency fluctuations, in particular, a strengthening of the U.S. dollar, could adversely affect the competitiveness of our products in international markets.

Current wording

Our international sales are typically denominated in U.S. dollars. As a result, we will not have significant direct exposure to currency valuation exchange rate fluctuations. However, because our products are sold internationally, our products may be at a price disadvantage as compared with other non-U.S. suppliers if the U.S. dollar appreciates relative to other major foreign currencies. This could lead to our having to lower prices or our struggling to compete for international customers. Consequently, currency fluctuations, in particular, a strengthening of the U.S. dollar, could adversely affect the competitiveness of our products in international markets.

Previous wording

We may enter into further transactions with related parties. Related-party transactions create the possibility of conflicts of interest with regard to management, including that:

Current wording

We have entered into transactions, and may in the future enter into further transactions with related parties. Related-party transactions create the possibility of conflicts of interest with regard to management, including that:

Previous wording

On September 21, 2023, we signed a Supply Agreement with UOP LLC (“UOP”), an affiliate of Honeywell International Inc. (“Honeywell”), pursuant to which UOP may purchase equipment supplied by us, and we agreed to issue additional warrants to purchase common stock to UOP, consisting of (i) an initial Performance Warrant to issue up to 51,717 shares of common stock, issued on September 21, 2023 in exchange for a prepayment of equipment by UOP in the amount of $15 million, and (ii) additional Performance Warrants (not to exceed an aggregate value of $15 million based on target purchase amounts of up to $300 million by 2030) to be issued on an annual basis for the five-year period beginning in 2026, based on UOP’s purchase of additional equipment after execution of the Supply Agreement. On September 21, 2023, we and UOP also entered into a Joint Development Agreement, pursuant to which we and UOP have agreed to work together to collaborate and engage in certain research and development activities generally related to flow battery technology, and a Patent License Agreement, pursuant to which UOP will license certain patent rights to us. However, Honeywell is under no obligation to place any additional firm orders with us at any price point, and any future orders may be subject to future pricing or other commercial or technical negotiations, which we may not be able to satisfy, resulting in a diminished potential value of this relationship to us. In addition, while activities under the Joint Development Agreement have commenced, we and Honeywell may not be able to agree on future activities and endeavors to pursue under the Joint Development Agreement, activities under the Joint Development Agreement may not be successful, or the Patent License Agreement may have limited value to us.

Current wording

On September 21, 2023, we signed a Supply Agreement with UOP LLC (“UOP”), an affiliate of Honeywell International Inc. (“Honeywell”), pursuant to which UOP may purchase equipment supplied by us, and we agreed to issue additional warrants to purchase common stock to UOP, consisting of (i) an initial Performance Warrant to issue up to 51,717 shares of common stock, issued on September 21, 2023 in exchange for a prepayment of equipment by UOP in the amount of $15 million, and (ii) additional Performance Warrants (not to exceed an aggregate value of $15 million based on target purchase amounts of up to $300 million by 2030) to be issued on an annual basis for the five-year period beginning in 2026, based on UOP’s purchase of additional equipment after execution of the Supply Agreement. On September 21, 2023, we and UOP also entered into a Joint Development Agreement, pursuant to which we and UOP have agreed to work together to collaborate and engage in certain research and development activities generally related to flow battery technology, and a Patent License Agreement, pursuant to which UOP will license certain patent rights to us. However, Honeywell is under no obligation to place any additional firm orders with us at any price point, and any future orders may

Previous wording

SBE, Honeywell, and any other business partners in the future, may have economic, business or legal interests or goals that are inconsistent with our goals. Any disagreements with our current or other future business partners may impede our ability to maximize the benefits of these partnerships and slow the commercialization of our iron-flow batteries. Future commercial or strategic counterparties may require us, among other things, to pay certain costs or to make certain capital investments or to seek their consent to take certain actions. In addition, if our business partners are unable or unwilling to meet sourcing, development, or other obligations under our partnership arrangements, we may be required to fulfill those obligations alone. These factors could result in a material adverse effect on our business and financial results.

Current wording

SBE, Honeywell, and any other business partners in the future, may have economic, business or legal interests or goals that are inconsistent with our interests or goals. Any disagreements with our current or other future business partners may impede our ability to maximize the benefits of these partnerships and slow the commercialization of our iron-flow batteries. Future commercial or strategic counterparties may require us, among other things, to pay certain costs or to make certain capital investments or to seek their consent to take certain actions. In addition, if our business partners are unable or unwilling to meet sourcing, development, or other obligations under our partnership arrangements, we may be required to fulfill those obligations alone. These factors could result in a material adverse effect on our business and financial results.

Previous wording

We may enter into strategic partnerships, joint ventures and licensing arrangements to expand our business and enter into new markets. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to consummate any such arrangements as contemplated to commercialize our energy storage products. There is also no assurance that we will be able to realize the benefits of any such arrangements even if we do enter into such strategic partnerships, joint ventures and licensing arrangements and there is always a risk that either party may be unable to comply with its delivery, payment, or other obligations under any such arrangement. The occurrence of any such risks may result in diminished potential value of these types of relationships to us. For example, in 2022 we entered into a strategic partnership with Energy Storage Industries Asia Pacific (“ESI”) and a framework agreement with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (“SMUD”). Under the terms of our agreement with ESI, we commenced delivery of Energy Warehouse systems to ESI in 2022, continuing through 2023 and 2024, and expect to

Current wording

We may enter into strategic partnerships, joint ventures and licensing arrangements to expand our business and enter into new markets. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to consummate any such arrangements as contemplated to commercialize our energy storage products. There is also no assurance that we will be able to realize the benefits of any such arrangements even if we do enter into such strategic partnerships, joint ventures and licensing arrangements and there is always a risk that either party may be unable to comply with its delivery, payment, or other obligations under any such arrangement. The occurrence of any such risks may result in diminished potential value of these types of relationships to us. For example, in 2022 we entered into a strategic partnership with Energy Storage Industries Asia Pacific (“ESI”) and a framework agreement with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (“SMUD”). Under the terms of our agreement with ESI, we commenced delivery of Energy Warehouse systems to ESI in 2022, continuing through 2023, 2024 and 2025 to fulfill their orders. ESI is expected to construct a manufacturing facility in Queensland, Australia, equipped to conduct final assembly of our systems from 2025 onward; however, ESI may be delayed or unable to complete construction of the manufacturing facility or may cancel or decline to place future orders of our product, whether due to funding constraints or other reasons, which may require ESS to find alternative arrangements to addressing the market, such as supplying products directly or identifying alternative in-country facilities. We made the first delivery of our systems to SMUD during the second quarter of 2023, but the task authorization supporting the Energy Warehouse pilot and the next phase order of our Energy Center expired on December 31, 2024, and while we are in discussions for future task authorizations, SMUD is under no obligation to continue the task authorization or place additional orders with us.

Previous wording

On February 13, 2025, we publicly announced that our board of directors has engaged financial advisors to investigate and pursue commercial or financial transactions, which could include, among other things, divestitures, a merger or sale, joint ventures, partnerships and financings. Exploring commercial and financial transactions may create a significant distraction for our management team and board of directors and require us to expend significant time and resources and incur expenses for advisors. Moreover, the review and consideration of such commercial and financial transactions may disrupt our business by causing uncertainty among current and potential employees, suppliers, customers and investors. The selection and execution of a commercial or financial transaction may lead to similar disruptions, and parties advocating for alternatives not selected may solicit support for such other alternatives, causing further disruption.

Current wording

We continue to investigate and pursue commercial or financial transactions, which could include, among other things, divestitures, a merger or sale, joint ventures, partnerships and financings. Exploring commercial and financial transactions may create a significant distraction for our management team and board of directors and require us to expend significant time and resources and incur expenses for advisors. Moreover, the review and consideration of such commercial and financial transactions may disrupt our business by causing uncertainty among current and potential employees, suppliers, customers and investors. The selection and execution of a commercial or financial transaction may lead to similar disruptions, and parties advocating for alternatives not selected may solicit support for such other alternatives, causing further disruption.

Previous wording

If we do not successfully identify a viable commercial or financial transaction, or consummate such a transaction, or if we are unable to raise sufficient capital to fund our operations, our board of directors may determine that a liquidation of our assets, wind-down, or dissolution of our business is the best method to seek to maximize value.

Current wording

If we do not successfully identify a viable commercial or financial transaction, or consummate such a transaction, or if we are unable to raise sufficient capital to fund our operations, our board of directors may determine that a liquidation