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Ascend Elements, a Massachusetts-based lithium-ion battery materials manufacturer, scammed the US Department of Energy out of millions in a Kentucky project. Between September 18, 2023, and February 18, 2025, the company submitted inflated reimbursement claims for work on its Apex-1 battery materials project in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. The claims included excessive labor hours, unnecessary equipment rentals, and wasteful expenses. The company received over $5.3 million in payments tied to this conduct.
The US Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky announced that Ascend Elements has agreed to pay $7,497,555.65 to resolve civil allegations. The settlement reflects the Department of Justice’s commitment to safeguarding federal funds from misuse. Ascend voluntarily disclosed the issues to the government and received credit for its cooperation.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, with no determination of liability. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica R. C. Malloy handled the matter for the United States, with support from the U.S. Department of Energy. The settlement demonstrates that voluntary self-disclosure and cooperation will be met with appropriate credit, while still ensuring accountability.
US Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated that companies receiving taxpayer dollars must be held to the highest standards. The recovery of $7.5 million reflects the Department of Justice’s commitment to ensuring that federal funds are used for their intended purpose.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: White Collar Crime
- Defendant: Kentucky
- Location: KY
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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