The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) has inaugurated its Center for Electrical Energy Storage, featuring over 3,700 square meters of laboratory space dedicated to battery research, including applications for electric vehicles.
The facility, funded jointly by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs with €18 million, will focus on improving battery sustainability, safety, and performance.
Institute Director Prof. Hans-Martin Henning stated: “We are grateful for this funding, as it has enabled us to build a research infrastructure with state-of-the-art characterisation instruments, industry-oriented process equipment and unique facilities.”
The centre will research alternative battery materials, including sodium-ion technology that eliminates critical raw materials. This work aims to support Germany’s energy transition goals while advancing electric vehicle battery technology through improved energy density, performance, and charging behavior.
Dr. Daniel Biro, Head of Department, highlighted the centre’s safety testing capabilities: “In our new centre, we are able to perform characterisation measurements from the microstructure level up to the overall system level, which enables us to identify defects and safety risks at an early stage.”
The facility includes testing services for battery manufacturers, equipment builders, and electric mobility operators, offering development and quality assurance capabilities under one roof.
