International Energy Agency head emphasizes importance of European battery production

With today’s deteriorating security situation, an ongoing energy crisis, and the transition to completely fossil-free energy production, Europe must become more self-sufficient in strategically relevant supply chains and energy supply. This is according to Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), in an interview with the Financial Times (23/2 2023).

Birol believes that there is still much to do to diversify the energy supply. He advocates for a green transition that is not only based on renewable energy sources but also ensures that more wind turbines and batteries are manufactured in Europe. Today’s uncertain times clearly show that we can no longer rely on global supply chains and energy production from individual countries. Birol raised all of this with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen when they met last week in Brussels.

We are entering a new industrial age of clean energy technology manufacturing,” he said. “The two powers [in clean energy manufacturing] are China and the US — relying on one single country is always a bad idea. So if we want diversification Europe is a good candidate.” says Fatih Birol.

Increased energy security is achieved through more and better energy storage solutions. Nilar’s batteries play a vital role as the share of renewable and often unpredictable energy sources increases. In addition, Nilar is one of the few battery manufacturers that has production in Sweden and with a unique technology that reduces the need for raw materials and components from regions outside of Europe.

“I share Birol’s assessment that European battery production will become increasingly strategic in the coming years. Our business idea is based on a circular production chain, where technical expertise and production come together in Gävle”, says Erik Oldmark, CEO of Nilar International AB.

Link to the article: https://www.ft.com/content/a3649a57-122b-4418-a44e-f306c194ad74