The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) in Germany has announced bridge financing of up to 25 million euros to support battery research projects. This funding comes in response to a financial gap created by the elimination of resources from the Climate and Transformation Fund (KTF), ensuring continuity in vital battery research initiatives.
Federal Minister of Education and Research, Cem Özdemir, emphasized the critical role of battery research in securing technological leadership in future industries. “We will immediately initiate all approvable battery research projects available to us,” Özdemir stated. “Battery research determines technological leadership in key future fields. Those who become global leaders in powerful and affordable energy storage will shape the value creation of the future.”
Özdemir highlighted the significance of advancements in battery technology for Germany’s automotive industry. “Progress in battery technology is crucial to ensure that the car of tomorrow comes from Germany,” he said. “If we want to remain a nation of car manufacturers and innovators, we must become a ‘battery country.’ Large-scale battery storage systems are catalysts for the energy transition, enabling stable supply and competitive electricity prices. These are central factors for our economic position.”
The bridge financing allows the BMBF to address the most urgent projects, signaling reliability to researchers and industry stakeholders. “With this funding, we ensure continuity in battery research,” Özdemir continued. “A new government must build on this and accelerate progress. The battery is the key to shaping the world of tomorrow.”
Background: Previously, the BMBF financed most battery research activities through the KTF under the title “Measures for the Further Development of Electromobility.” However, a ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court on November 15, 2023, necessitated a consolidation of the KTF. Consequently, no funds are available for new battery research projects from the 2025 fiscal year onward.
Due to the incomplete budget procedure for 2025, no new battery research projects could have commenced this year without intervention. The newly secured bridge financing allows for the initiation of approvable projects despite these challenges.
A comprehensive framework for battery research will require action from a newly elected federal government. In the meantime, funding applicants can continue to submit project proposals according to the BMBF’s announcements in the Federal Gazette by the specified deadlines.
