Riitta and Jorma J. Takanen Foundation Donates €120,000 to the University of Vaasa – University invests in hydrogen and battery technology research
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To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Riitta and Jorma J. Takanen Foundation has donated €120,000 to the University of Vaasa for the development of research infrastructure. With this donation, the university will build capabilities in its engine laboratory between 2026 and 2028 to utilise hydrogen and store energy. At the same time, the university strengthens its long-term commitment to energy research and sustainable energy solutions.
The University of Vaasa is located at the heart of EnergyVaasa, the largest energy and environmental technology hub in the Nordic countries, and develops energy expertise in close collaboration with international industrial companies and the public sector. The goal is to renew the energy sector and combat climate change with advanced solutions.
Since 2024, the university’s engine laboratory has been developing a new energy system based on hydrogen and biomethane. In the first phase, hydrogen is blended with biomethane; in the second phase, the focus shifts to the use of pure hydrogen. The upcoming third phase, scheduled for 2026–2028, will concentrate on comprehensive system design and testing using a digital twin. The aim is to create a framework that enables integrated and dynamic analysis of different energy systems. This approach provides a holistic view of energy system operations and supports understanding of the energy transition as a global systemic shift.
The research focuses on system resilience, speed, and reliability in crisis situations. The donation is specifically directed toward energy system design, battery technology development, and the creation of a digital testing and simulation environment.
– We have been developing our research environment with a long-term perspective to meet future needs. This donation enables the construction of a new type of research infrastructure that supports the green transition and energy transformation, says Mika Grundström, Vice-Rector of the University of Vaasa.
– The Riitta and Jorma J. Takanen Foundation, established in 2005, aims to support the development and research of the technology industry in Central and Northern Finland. The Foundation’s Board saw that this project by the University of Vaasa – particularly specialised in energy and environmental research – is an excellent way to fulfill the Foundation’s purpose during its 20th anniversary year,” says Jonna Tolonen, Chair of the Foundation’s Board.
– This research infrastructure strengthens the foundation of energy research, where we seek carbon-neutral fuels such as hydrogen and develop related storage and utilisation solutions. The research enables a societal shift toward carbon-neutral energy production and supports our Energy Transition Valley initiative. I warmly congratulate the foundation on its anniversary and thank them for this significant donation, Grundström concludes.