New effort will strengthen Sweden's position in the global battery race

The development of sustainable battery production is important for achieving climate goals, but also provides opportunities for a competitive industry along the entire battery value chain. This includes everything from the extraction and processing of raw materials to the production of batteries, use and recycling.

The investment is SEK 316 million until 2028 and is based on a mandate from the government, where business, universities and other public actors will collaborate.

– Sweden has a strong position with access to raw materials, fossil-free electricity, expertise and strong companies and other actors. At the same time, there is strong international competition and a race for battery investments, says Ida Langborg, who is responsible for Vinnova's work in sustainable value chains.

The uncertain geopolitical situation also creates an increased need for strengthened resilience.

– Sweden and Europe need to advance their positions for long-term competitiveness and reduced vulnerability. That is why this initiative is important, says Ida Langborg.

The initiative begins with seven project that will receive support with a total of 86 million for further development and scaling up of solutions, which, when implemented, can contribute to a sustainable battery value chain.

Some of the projects receiving funding

Process development and scale-up of organic flow batteries

Rivus AB will scale up a new type of battery electrolyte that is completely free of metals and hazardous substances. It is water-based, non-flammable and can be used directly in existing flow batteries. By avoiding metals such as lithium and cobalt as well as PFAS, the solution is cheaper and better for the environment. The project tests the technology on a larger scale and in real battery systems, with the aim of making it ready for commercial use.

Scale-up of pilot production of Granode silicon anodes

Granode is developing a new battery technology that makes electric vehicles more efficient and climate-smart. By using silicon in the battery's anode, it can increase range, speed up charging and reduce climate impact. The project is building a demonstration plant and a scalable production solution that can be used in future battery factories.

SafeBat Säker and circular contamination control for the battery value chain

SafeBat is a project that develops a new technology that makes battery manufacturing and recycling safer and more environmentally friendly. The project focuses on reducing hazardous dust in factories, which today can have negative impacts on people and the environment. The new solution that is being scaled up is a dry cleaning system that reduces the risk of accidents, saves water and recycles valuable metals. The technology is being tested in Swedish battery factories and evaluated by researchers.

See all project receiving funding