The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Governing Board convened on Friday in Bucharest, underscoring its commitment to bolstering Europe’s competitiveness through innovation and simplification measures.
Aligning the EIT’s Priorities for Innovation and Competitiveness
As highlighted in the Competitiveness Compass, Europe must urgently address its productivity gap and invest in future-oriented technologies to maintain its global edge. Discussions at the meeting reflected these priorities, ensuring that the EIT’s strategic direction remains fully aligned with Europe’s broader competitiveness goals.
The Board meeting addressed key strategic, operational, and governance matters shaping the EIT’s future direction. The agenda included updates on the latest EIT activities and initiatives, including the EIT’s role in the Union of Skills as well as a discussion of short- and medium-term simplification measures.
The Board meeting also marked the last EIT Governing Board meeting for Jan Figel, Janis Grevins, Nora Khaldi and Razvan Nicolescu. They were warmly thanked for their commitment and their contributions to the Board and the overall EIT Community.
Visit to Prime Batteries Technology: An Impact Story Powered by EIT InnoEnergy
Concluding the day’s agenda, Board members visited Prime Batteries Technology, a Romanian company at the forefront of lithium-ion battery innovation. Prime Batteries has rapidly grown into a €1 billion+ company, supplying batteries for Europe’s largest installed storage capacity. With an 80% recurrent customer rate, the company has built a reputation for innovation and reliability in the energy storage sector.
A key driver of this success has been the support from EIT InnoEnergy, a shareholder in the company. Through a strategic investment in 2022, EIT InnoEnergy focused on helping Prime Batteries scale production to 8 GWh, attract top talent, and expand its market presence. This backing has strengthened Prime Batteries’ ability to compete globally while maintaining profitable, organic growth.
In 2024, Prime Batteries, in partnership with Monsson, launched Romania’s largest energy storage facility (78 MWh) in Constanța County, reinforcing its leadership in the industry. This visit to Prime Batteries highlighted the tangible outcomes of the EIT’s support in fostering innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness within the European battery industry.
Looking Ahead
The insights and decisions from this GB meeting are poised to steer the EIT’s future endeavours, reinforcing its mission to drive innovation and boost Europe’s competitive edge. Additionally, the visit to Prime Batteries provided valuable insight into how the EIT’s support effectively fosters innovation and drives tangible impact.