Embodiments described herein provide methods and systems for manufacturing faster charging, higher capacity energy storage devices that are smaller, lighter, and can be more cost effectively manufactured at a higher production rate. In one embodiment, a graded cathode structure is provided. The graded cathode structure comprises a conductive substrate, a first porous layer comprising a first cathodically active material having a first porosity formed on the conductive substrate, and a second porous layer comprising a second cathodically active material having a second porosity formed on the first porous layer. In certain embodiments, the first porosity is greater than the second porosity. In certain embodiments, the first porosity is less than the second porosity.