Battery Day 2024, held on September 24 in The Hague, was a significant event bringing together industry leaders, academics, and innovators to advance the Dutch battery ecosystem. Organized by Battery Competence Cluster NL, Innovation Quarter, TUDelft, Provincie Zuid-Holland, the event aimed to showcase cutting-edge advancements in battery technology and promote international collaboration.
Dirk van Asseldonk, interim program director of Battery Competence Cluster – NL speaks about the importance of this event: “The primary goal of Battery Day 2024 was to facilitate new connections, increase the knowledge of the battery community, to foster collaboration across different parts of the value chain and help position the Netherlands to serve as a catalyst for battery innovation. By offering a platform for sharing knowledge and networking, the event provided insights into emerging trends and challenges in battery development and how the Netherlands can contribute to global progress.”
The day's discussions centered around a few key objectives:
- Sustainable Battery Materials: The importance of reducing the reliance on rare and environmentally damaging materials was emphasized. Researchers and companies showcased innovations in alternative materials, which are critical for creating batteries that can support the green energy transition.
- Battery Management and Data: Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS) are seen as a solution to extend battery life, monitor performance, and prevent malfunctions.
- Battery Safety and Logistics: Speakers highlighted the crucial role of safety in battery systems and its transport, especially with the growing demand for energy storage in electric trucks or busses and renewable energy applications.
- Battery recycling: The circular economy model was another focal point of the day, underscoring the need for efficient battery recycling processes. As global battery production increases, the capacity to recycle and reuse materials will be critical in reducing waste and environmental impact.
- Human Capital and Education: Discussions also touched on the need to develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting the growing battery industry. Education and training programs were presented as essential tools to fill the gap in technical expertise.
Keynote Speakers and Breakout Sessions
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to hear from several high-profile guest speakers, including representatives of leading battery manufacturers, academic institutions, and government agencies. Their insights into cutting-edge research and practical solutions set the stage for various breakout sessions, where participants could delve deeper into specific areas of interest.
The participants listened in on the latest update of Battery Competence Cluster – NL. In this, Dirk van Asseldonk described the different funding calls that will support the national growth fund project ‘Material Independence & Circular Batteries’. He also presented the new, interactive community map of the Dutch battery ecosystem.
Wouter IJzermans of the Battery European Partnership Association (BEPA) explained the EU laws that will drive the EU battery ecosystem and funding opportunities the EU provides. This was followed by a presentation of Joo-Won Lee, senior economic affairs officer of the Dutch embassy in South-Korea, who showed a very interesting insight in the South-Korean battery industry. He explained what partners of South-Korean battery manufacturers are looking for.
Keynote speaker at Session ‘Batteries in the energy system’ Bert van Mil, Director Business Development of DENS, explains the importance of such a gathering: “Battery Day is more than just an event—it's a catalyst for innovation in the Dutch energy ecosystem. It's a unique opportunity for us to come together, share knowledge, ignite inspiration, and forge new relationships with industry peers. Together, we're not just discussing the future of energy—we're creating it."
In addition to presentations, networking opportunities were provided, allowing attendees to establish partnerships and explore collaborative projects.
Contribution to Global Battery Development
Battery Day 2024 underscored the Netherlands' role in shaping the future of the global battery market. By gathering experts from diverse sectors and promoting international collaboration, the event helps drive forward innovations that will impact the global transition to renewable energy.
With the rise in electric trucks and busses, grid-scale energy storage, and decentralized energy systems, the demand for high-performance sustainable batteries is increasing worldwide. Events like Battery Day allow for the exchange of knowledge and expertise, which is essential for addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by this shift.
Looking Ahead
As Battery Day 2024 concludes, the momentum for continued development and collaboration remains strong. Attendees left the event inspired to take actionable steps in improving battery technologies and contributing to a more sustainable future. The event highlighted the critical role that batteries will play in the coming decades and emphasized the need for continued innovation and cooperation.
In summary, Battery Day 2024 was more than just a day of learning and networking—it was a call to action for everyone involved in the battery sector to push the boundaries of what is possible and make a tangible impact on the world of energy storage.
