Nilar

Nilar International AB, a Swedish company, was established in 2001 as a research initiative by battery industry experts Lars Fredriksson and Neil Puester. The firm focused on developing and manufacturing advanced batteries for stationary energy storage systems, aiming to address the growing need to balance energy grids, particularly with the rise of intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind power. Production and development have been centered at its Gävle, Sweden facility since 2012, which is powered entirely by renewable energy.

The company's core business revolves around the design and production of its Nilar Hydride® batteries, which utilize a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) chemistry with a water-based electrolyte. This technology was developed as a safer alternative to other battery types, as the aqueous electrolyte prevents the thermal runaway and fire risks associated with some lithium-ion chemistries. The business model was fully integrated, covering everything from cell manufacturing and electronics to control software, selling directly to customers in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors for applications such as peak shaving, backup power, and storing solar energy.

A significant feature of Nilar's product is its patented ReOx® technology, which allows the battery's lifespan to be extended by refilling it with oxygen gas to restore lost capacity. The batteries were designed to be modular, allowing for scalable systems to meet various power requirements. Despite its technological advancements and raising significant capital, the company faced financial difficulties, citing a substantial need for further financing. This led to Nilar filing for insolvency in December 2023. Subsequently, in mid-2024, fellow Swedish battery developer Enerpoly acquired Nilar's advanced production line and dry electrode manufacturing technology to scale its own zinc-ion battery production.

Keywords: Nilar International, stationary energy storage, nickel-metal hydride, NiMH battery, ReOx technology, energy grid balancing, battery manufacturing, water-based electrolyte, stationary storage systems, Gävle Sweden, Lars Fredriksson, Neil Puester, residential energy storage, commercial energy storage, renewable energy integration, battery safety, battery recycling, dry electrode manufacturing, energy storage solutions, insolvency, Enerpoly acquisition, smart grid technology