During this reporting period, the project advanced along the planned work package structure. In WP1 (Grant project management), mandatory grant-related activities were carried out, including preparation and updating of the Data Management Plan and the Dissemination & Exploitation Plan, ensuring that project data and results are handled in line with Horizon Europe requirements. Day-to-day coordination, progress monitoring, and risk/quality management routines were implemented to support smooth technical execution.
In WP3 (Pre-market activities), market analysis and stakeholder engagement refined the go-to-market strategy and updated the business plan, identifying three priority beachhead markets: wind co-location, integrated energy suppliers, and data centres. Awareness activities were executed via industry networks, media, and online channels. The IP portfolio was further strengthened, a clear certification/compliance pathway was defined, and a robust EU-based supply chain for materials, components, and factory equipment was established.
In WP5 (Battery cell optimisation – Gen2 cells), work focused on improving the core iron-air cell design. Key activities included optimisation of electrode materials and structures, refinement of electrolyte composition and flow conditions, and development of an improved modular Gen2 cell architecture. Extensive laboratory testing and characterisation were performed to validate performance, durability, and safety of the optimised cells and to guide further iteration.
In WP6 (Battery stack and pack assembly), the optimised cells were integrated into larger functional units. The team engineered and tested stack configurations, developed and integrated the battery management system (BMS), and assembled standalone battery packs by combining multiple stacks with the required auxiliary and electronic systems. This work established scalable stack and pack designs suitable for pilot operation.
In WP7 (Battery stack and pack validation), independent third-party performance validation was completed by TNO, and delivered a formal test report on cell and pack behaviour under relevant operating conditions. Real-life pilot validation is now ongoing.
