During a press conference at Haugaland Næringspark on Monday, April 4, it emerged that Beyonder wants to keep its battery production in Norway, based on the government's signals of a major investment in batteries, increased exports and power to industry.
Beyonder is developing its own technology for sustainable battery cells based on, among other things, activated carbon from Norwegian sawdust. The battery cells are particularly suitable for power-intensive industries with a need for high power. Beyonder is currently located at Forus in Rogaland, where they have established a small-scale production line. Today, they are taking a big step forward in their plans for large-scale battery cell production.
- "We've made no secret of the fact that we've considered foreign locations for our large-scale factory. But with clear signals from the government that they will ensure internationally competitive framework conditions for large-scale battery cell production, everything is in place for us to succeed in the world championship here in Norway," says founder and CEO of Beyonder Svein Kvernstuen.
Minister of Petroleum and Energy Terje Aasland is pleased that Beyonder is now looking towards Norway for its full-scale production. Already in the first stage, the phased development will provide between 500-600 direct jobs in an otherwise industry-heavy region of Haugalandet. Full development, with up to 10 production lines, will provide around 2,000 direct jobs. In addition, there are all those employed during the construction period, the establishment of a supplier industry and ripple effects for local businesses.
- "For an industrial heart, it is very gratifying that the industry is turning its attention to Norway. We will facilitate long-term, good, secure framework conditions and ensure that the industry invests in Norway," says Minister of Petroleum and Energy Terje Aasland.
Watch the video greeting from the minister here!
For Beyonder, it was important to find a location with an established industrial muscle that they could work with and offer holistic solutions. They found that in Haugalandet.
- Beyonder wants synergies with existing industry and future establishments in the park. "It is a great advantage that the region has a great deal of industrial expertise and good educational institutions in relevant fields. Holistic solutions, pre-regulated industrial sites and sustainable logistics solutions both on land and at sea are essential for our progress," says COO of Beyonder, Steinar Lea.
Tiril Fjeld, CEO of Haugaland Business Park, believes the agreement signals that the business park is also entering a new phase. "They have spent 20 years on development work with regulations and heavy investments in infrastructure, including the establishment of their own deep-water quay and port area.
- It is a pleasure to welcome Beyonder as the first large-scale industrial establishment in Norway's largest fully regulated business park. As the first major player, they will have an impact on the further development of the park. "We have room for more people in the battery value chain, but other industries are also very welcome. Beyonder will be one of many who will participate in the world championship from Haugaland Business Park, and we are very pleased about that," says Fjeld.