RISE supports the upscaling of battery technology for energy storage

This follows a decision by Vanadis Energy, through MK Plus Sweden AB, and the Swedish Energy Agency to fund the continued development and industrialisation of advanced battery technology in Sweden, with project funding totalling nearly 120 million kronor.

As demand for stationary energy storage increases, there is a need for new battery technologies that are safer, more sustainable and easier to operate. MK Plus Sweden’s dual-technology strategy provides greater flexibility and a wider range of solutions for customers and players in the energy infrastructure sector. As part of this initiative, Vanadis Energy is collaborating with RISE Research Institutes of Sweden and Swedish equipment suppliers to build a robust domestic industrial base and support the upscaling of battery technology.

– At RISE, we work at the intersection of research and industry and the battery sector is a clear priority for Sweden’s industrial transition. Building domestic capacity in battery technology is essential for both energy security and long-term industrial competitiveness in Europe. RISE can offer both advanced research infrastructure and deep industrial and commercial know-how, supporting industries in the development and commercialisation of new solutions, says Stina Ulfsdotter Starborg, Business developer, RISE.

The ongoing project, with a total budget of 70 million kronor, is co-funded 45 per cent by the Swedish Energy Agency and 55 per cent by MK Plus Sweden AB. The funding supports the next phase of development, upscaling and industrial implementation of zinc-ion and vanadium-based solid-state battery technology (VSB) for stationary energy storage.

The project builds on MK Plus’s acquisition of Enerpoly in 2025 and strengthens the industrial platform established in Rosersberg, Sweden. It marks an important step in accelerating the transition from battery innovation to reliable, safe and scalable production. The aim is to contribute to the commercialisation of advanced energy storage technologies, a stronger Swedish and European battery value chain, and the wider energy transition.

Zinc-ion batteries have great potential for safe, cost-effective and sustainable stationary energy storage. Vanadium-based solid-state batteries are particularly well suited to applications requiring a long service life, high safety and robust performance in larger and demanding environments. Together, the two technologies can support grid stability, the integration of renewable energy, industrial electrification and security of supply.

– Securing financing for the follow-on project is an important milestone for Vanadis Energy. It enables us to move forward with industrialization and continue building the capabilities needed for competitive battery production in Sweden. Zinc-ion and vanadium solid state battery technologies are highly complementary, and by developing them in parallel we can create flexible, scalable and sustainable energy storage solutions for a wide range of stationary applications, says Kazumasa Kurokawa, CEO of MK Plus Sweden AB / Vanadis Energy.

– This financing structure reflects strong confidence in the technology, the team and the industrial potential of the project. Vanadis Energy wants to contribute to the ecosystem being built around the battery industry. We are committed to working with local raw material suppliers, equipment manufacturers and Swedish talent — building the competence base needed for sustainable battery production. By combining public innovation support with long-term private-sector commitment, we can accelerate scale-up while maintaining the operational discipline required for safe and reliable manufacturing, says Annika Werneman, COO of MK Plus Sweden AB.

About RISE Research Institutes of Sweden 
RISE is Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner. As an independent, state-owned organization, RISE collaborates with industry, academia and the public sector to accelerate innovation and develop solutions for a sustainable society. RISE has extensive expertise in battery technology, materials science and industrial scale-up.

About Vanadis Energy / MK Plus Sweden AB 
Vanadis Energy is the operating name used by MK Plus for its expansion in the European Union, the United States and the Middle East. In Sweden, MK Plus Sweden AB is based in Rosersberg. Vanadis Energy delivers battery technology designed for superior safety, long lifetime and scalable performance.

About the Swedish Energy Agency 
The Swedish Energy Agency supports research, innovation and business development that contribute to a sustainable energy system and strengthen Sweden’s competitiveness in the energy transition.

Media contacts
Stina Ulfsdotter Starborg 
Business developer, RISE 
stina.ulfsdotter.starborg@ri.se

Annika Werneman 
COO, MK Plus Sweden AB 
info@vanadisenergy.com