The shift to clean energy depends on better batteries. Yet the demand for safer, higher energy density, longer-lasting and more affordable battery solutions is outpacing what current technology can deliver. In particular, across sectors like electric aviation, electric vehicles, medical wearables and industrial equipment. Europe’s dependence on non-European suppliers for critical battery materials and manufacturing poses a growing strategic risk. To meet climate targets and build a competitive European battery industry, TNO at Holst Centre develops both next-generation battery technology and the processes and equipment to produce them at scale.
Science and scalability
The experts at TNO at Holst Centre are addressing the battery challenge across the full development chain. Our expertise in thin/thick-film integration, dry coating and advanced manufacturing processes leads to next-generation Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and solid-state batteries that outperform current state-of-the-art on every key dimension: safety, energy density, lifetime and cost of production. Dry coating alone cuts manufacturing costs by more than 20% and energy consumption by up to 47%, while eliminating the toxic solvents used in conventional battery slurry coating.
Yet developing superior battery technology is only half the story. TNO at Holst Centre also designs and develops the manufacturing equipment needed to produce these technologies at scale. We support the entire ecosystem, from material development to market application. Our combination of cell innovation and scalable manufacturing enables our partners to move from breakthrough to business advantage.
Strengthening positions
For battery manufacturers and their value chain partners, working with TNO at Holst Centre means more than access to cutting-edge R&D. It means a direct route to market-ready innovation. We understand both the science and the realities of scaling innovation for industry application. By addressing the full development chain, we help our partners reduce cost, mitigate supply chain risk and establish strong positions in Europe’s future battery value chain. Our innovations have already given rise to successful spin-offs, and we continue to expand our work across the full range of battery applications, from mobility and transport to grid storage to consumer electronics and beyond.
TNO at Holst Centre
In addition, TNO at Holste Centre partnered with VDL ETS and other public and private partners to establish the Open Battery Industrialization Centre (OBIC) in 2026. The OBIC is the first Dutch facility where companies can test and scale battery technologies for industrial production.
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Collaborate on impact
Join one of our shared R&D programs or start a dedicated collaboration — together we secure positions in the value chains that will define the future.