Resonate Testing to invest £475,000 in battery testing facility

Left to right: Invest NI's John McKibben, Resonate Testing’s managing director Tom Mallon, Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Orla O'Donnell, Resonate Testing’s operations manager

Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed a £475,000 investment by Newry-based Resonate Testing Ltd to establish the first battery-testing facility in Northern Ireland. This milestone expansion positions Resonate Testing at the forefront of certified lithium battery testing, catering for industries such as eBikes, electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and the space and medical sectors. The investment will create five high quality jobs and is projected to boost the company’s turnover by 50% by June 2026.

During a visit to the company’s new testing laboratories, Mr Murphy said: “This pioneering new facility is a significant development for Northern Ireland which will strengthen our position as a leader in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and green technologies. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI), this is the first battery-testing centre in Northern Ireland, and one of only a few across the UK. The new facility will play a crucial role in supporting the growing demand for battery innovation and safety testing.

“The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation is clear to see, and I am particularly impressed that Resonate Testing is well on the way to generating 100% of its own energy. The creation of five high-quality jobs in Newry and the company’s projected growth further demonstrates the value of this investment for our economy.”

Invest NI has offered support to the company to help it develop the new battery testing facility and invest in the equipment. The facility includes an explosive and fireproof chamber, multiple battery abuse test rigs, a preparation area and robust sensor equipment.

Significant milestone
Tom Mallon, a director at Resonate Testing, said: “We have provided leading specialist engineering test facilities to the aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector for almost a decade. This new battery testing facility marks a significant milestone for our business, positioning us at the forefront of the rapidly growing rechargeable battery sector.

“Through mechanical and environmental testing, we can ensure product adequacy in the severest and most demanding environments, resulting in batteries that are fit for purpose across a range of industries. We are immensely grateful for the support from Invest NI, which has enabled us to expand our capabilities and bring this pioneering facility to life. We are delighted to be supporting our own net zero ambitions and contributing to the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the rapidly evolving battery sector.”

Currently, lithium batteries in the UK and Europe are self-certified, but increasing pressure for stricter regulatory testing and restrictions on transporting batteries on aircraft or via postal and courier services presents significant opportunities for the company.

John McKibben, Invest NI’s southern regional manager, said: “Invest NI has supported Resonate Testing since the business was established in 2015, through R&D, skills development, and export growth. Our financial assistance for this latest investment has enabled Resonate Testing to carry out important building adaptions and purchase battery testing equipment which will enhance the company’s capabilities. We are pleased to welcome the launch of this new facility, which will contribute to a regionally balanced economy and boost Newry and Northern Ireland’s reputation as a leader in this sector.”