Zernike Institute involved in successful applications in the third round of the National Growth Fund

The Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials at the University of Groningen is well represented in proposals submitted in the third round of the National Growth Fund , for which national funding is available. In the third round, a total of four billion euros has been awarded to eighteen project proposals that will make a significant contribution to the economic growth and prosperity of the Netherlands. The Zernike Institute is involved in at least three of those eighteen proposals.

The Zernike Institute is collaborating with a wide range of partners on various groundbreaking projects that form the basis for the economy and society of the future. The Institute is involved in at least three proposals: Circular Integrated High-Efficiency Solar Panels (Loi et al.), M2i: Growing with Green Steel (Kooi), and Materials Independence Circular Battery Technology (Tromp).

Circular Integrated High-Efficiency Solar Panels

This project focuses on the development and industrialization of new solar PV technologies and ensures the development of the next generation of fully circular solar panels. Within the project, the UG will collaborate with the entire chain, from suppliers of raw materials to construction and automotive companies that will use integrated solar panels on a large scale. This initiative contributes to the energy transition and the energy independence of the Netherlands and the EU.

The National Growth Fund will invest up to €412 million in the project. This amount consists of a definitive award of €135 million and a conditional award of €277 million. Read more about the project here

M2i: Growing with Green Steel

The goal of Growing with Green Steel is to accelerate the transformation to a sustainable steel sector and build a strong international competitive position by implementing circular chains and reducing emissions. The project focuses on innovations within manufacturing companies that contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and other harmful emissions in the sector, as well as the reuse of raw materials.

The National Growth Fund will invest €124 million in the project.

Materials Independence Circular Battery Technology

Battery technology plays a crucial role in the energy transition as a storage system for green energy. This project aims to establish a strong position for the Dutch manufacturing industry in the global battery chain, with sustainability and circularity at its core. The project contributes to achieving climate goals and realizing sustainable economic success in the Netherlands.

The National Growth Fund will invest up to €296 million in the project. Of this amount, €118 million has been conditionally awarded, and €178 million is reserved. Read more about the project here

The Zernike Institute is delighted to contribute to these important projects and will leverage its knowledge and expertise to develop innovative solutions that contribute to the sustainable growth of the Netherlands.