Swansea and Limerick Universities launch ground breaking battery innovation partnership
Swansea and Limerick Universities launch ground breaking battery innovation partnership
Swansea University and the University of Limerick have joined forces in a pioneering research collaboration aimed at advancing next-generation battery technology, backed by funding from the Wales-Ireland Research Alliance Award.
The project brings together Swansea’s expertise in battery materials and design with Limerick’s strengths in component development to create cutting-edge anode-free sodium-metal batteries. This emerging battery type eliminates the need to handle sodium metal during production—a safer and more cost-effective approach to energy storage.
Dr Ashley Willow, Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at Swansea University and project co-lead, said: “By using sodium—an abundant and widely available element—instead of lithium, we can develop batteries that are not only easier and more cost-effective to produce but will keep up with the upcoming boom in battery growth.
“Anode-free sodium-metal batteries can deliver more energy than current lithium iron phosphate (LFP) systems. Their lightweight design makes them ideal for applications such as electric vehicles.”
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The collaboration received €73,155 as part of a broader €584,378 fund supporting eight cross-border projects between Wales and Ireland. The initiative aligns with the Ireland-Wales Shared Statement and Joint Action Plan 2021–2025, aiming to tackle shared regional challenges through research and innovation.
Dr Ibrahim Aminu, project co-lead and Principal Investigator at the University of Limerick, added: “This project not only supports the advancement of battery technology but lays the foundation for a long-term strategic partnership between Limerick and Swansea, one that can address societal challenges while strengthening regional innovation.”
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS, welcomed the project, saying: “We want to create a dynamic future for ourselves, championing innovation and new technologies to support a greener Wales, with better health, better jobs and prosperity for all.”
The partnership comes as both universities look to leverage the UK’s renewed association with Horizon Europe, opening the door to broader international collaborations and funding opportunities.
Professor Paul Boyle, Chair of Universities Wales and Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, noted: “This joint programme between the Wales Innovation Network and Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland highlights the excellence of Welsh research and its growing international impact.”
As the global battery market accelerates, this collaboration positions Wales and Ireland at the forefront of clean energy innovation, offering long-term benefits in sustainability, resilience, and economic growth.
