EU Project Develops Magnesium Batteries for Sustainable Energy Storage

European researchers are advancing magnesium battery technology to offer a sustainable energy storage alternative. The EU-funded HighMag project, coordinated by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, aims to deliver powerful, cost-effective batteries. This initiative addresses the increasing need for efficient energy systems and electric vehicle power. Magnesium presents advantages over lithium, including wider availability and lower production costs. The project explores two battery designs: magnesium-sulfur and magnesium-metal systems. HighMag focuses on creating high-performance materials and optimizing cell structures. Pilot-scale testing will assess safety and recyclability. Project manager Dr. Yuri Surace stated, “With HighMag, we are developing sustainable, powerful, and cost-effective alternatives to lithium-ion batteries.” The team seeks to move this technology from labs to production. Environmental and safety aspects are integrated throughout development. The consortium comprises 13 European and Israeli institutions. They collaborate to prove the viability of magnesium batteries for future energy and mobility needs.