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First phase of battery cell construction commences.

Federal and city politicians gathered in Münster on Tuesday for battery research discussions. The aim is to benefit the relevant industry with their findings.

SymClub
May 2, 2024
2 min read
NewsFraunhofer-GesellschaftGermanyFDPNorth Rhine-WestphaliaCDUBettina Stark-WatzingerTechnologyFutureEnergyScienceMinsterBattery cellHendrik Wüst
A calendering machine, photographed at the opening of the Fraunhofer "FFB PreFab" facility.
A calendering machine, photographed at the opening of the Fraunhofer "FFB PreFab" facility.

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Innovation in the field - First phase of battery cell construction commences.

Politicians and researchers commenced the initial phase of constructing the battery cell research facility in Münster on Tuesday. The project's funding includes 500 million euros from the federal government and 320 million euros from the state.

Federal Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger (FDP) enthusiastically stated, "Battery technology is a crucial key and future technology. We're building a large-scale battery cell production center in Münster, called the FFB, to test innovative battery technologies, develop novel battery cell concepts, and efficiently bring them to market maturity."

North Rhine-Westphalia's Minister President Hendrik Wüst (CDU) regards Münster as a world leader in battery research. Wüst declared, "The FFB Münster will significantly contribute not only to North Rhine-Westphalia's growth but also to maintaining a strong industrial location with secure, good jobs and achieving our ambitious climate protection goals in the future."

A conflict arose over the selection of the Münster site in 2020, with Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg expressing their concerns. However, the ministry affirmed that the choice was made through a fair process based on standard criteria despite the involvement of the FDP's Anja Karliczek, whose constituency is in Münsterland.

"Reaching this milestone marks a significant moment for the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Research Fab Battery Cell FFB, and, most importantly, Europe's sustainable and competitive battery production sector," said the President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Holger Hanselka.

The primary goal of Battery Cell Research Production is to serve as a connection between science, research, and industry. Findings from lab work will be applied in industry, and professionals will be trained in Münster. This project includes the Fraunhofer Association, RWTH Aachen University, Forschungszentrum Jülich, and the University of Münster. Phase 2's construction is scheduled to start at the end of 2024.

Battery research plays a critical role in connecting scientific advancements with real-world applications. The happening union of science and industry in Münster will undoubtedly lead to growth, innovation, and a greener tomorrow.

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Source: www.stern.de

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