Solid-state batteries on the rise in Europe

Solid-state batteries are considered as the next generation of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. Using a solid electrolyte, the technology promises substantially higher energy densities and lower cost on battery cells, and opens up for new applications such as electric airplanes. We now see that the technology attracts investments on the European market.

In Spain the Basque Government approved an capital injection of €19,4M in the start-up BASQUEVOLT.

Launched in June this year, BASQUEVOLT aims at producing 10GWh of solid-state batteries by 2027. The Basque Government announced last week that it will provide a total subsidy of close to €20M to BASQUEVOLT (approx. 50% of the total investment) over the coming years to consolidate technology around the production of electric vehicles in the Basque Country.

BASQUVOLT is the second solid state player in Europe after the earlier established Blue Solutions (Bolloré). The solid-state battery uses a solid electrolyte in the case of both BASQUEVOLT and Blue Solution this is a polymeric compound. The solid-state battery has several potential advantages over traditional Li-ion batteries, including higher energy density, longer lifespan, faster charging times, and improved safety. They may also be able to operate at higher temperatures than conventional lithium-ion batteries. There are few solid-state batteries on the market, but they have a potential to make real change in many applications in the future.