We welcome Patrik Johansson to STandUP for Energy

On March 1, began his Patrik Johansson position as Professor of Chemistry at the Ångström Laboratory and simultaneously began his position as the new leader of the EU’s major battery research initiative, Battery2030+, where he succeeds Kristina Edström. Patrik comes most recently from Chalmers, where he has researched new battery technologies and led the Graphene Flagship.

It is a busy time with a new position and office, but Cajsa Bartush-Kätting, coordinator at STandUP for Energy, has had the opportunity to meet with Patrik to discuss the state of battery research.

– I am really looking forward to contributing to the battery research at UU and am honored to lead the work on Battery2030+ moving forward, says Patrik Johansson. Battery technology has a central role in the transition to sustainable energy systems, and I look forward to contributing to solutions by research, development, and innovation.

Patrik also explains the challenges that battery research faces today, and the important balance between short-term development and innovation and more long-term, fundamental research.

– The EU in many ways emphasize support for rapid implementation of electrification within the industrial and transport sectors, but we must not forget long-term investments in new materials and next generation battery technologies. And there Battery2030+ plays a central role. Breakthroughs in these areas require visionary thinking and patience, explains Patrik, whom himself enjoys researching batteries based on e.g. calcium and aluminium rather than lithium.

STandUP for Energy plays an important role here by integrating research along the entire battery value chain – from fundamental material studies to the development of efficient manufacturing processes and innovations in battery recycling and sustainability.

– We need to work broadly and with a holistic perspective to create the conditions for future breakthroughs, says Patrik. This is necessary both to meet the EU’s requirements and consumer demands and to truly make a long-term difference in energy storage and electrification.

Despite the recent challenges in the battery industry, such as those faced by Northvolt, Patrik Johansson sees a clear way forward for the energy transition.

– The electrification of the transport sector and the integration of renewable energy are crucial for the energy transition. The central role of batteries in a sustainable energy system cannot be overestimated, and I am confident that together we can drive the development forward.