What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “lithium‑ion batteries”? Most likely a mobile phone or an electric car. But today these batteries are becoming increasingly important in energy‑storage systems that help ensure the efficient use of solar and wind power.
Watch the latest episode of Radio SWH’s programme Latvia in Science
Why do batteries age, how can their lifespan be extended, and how can a scientific idea be turned into a market-ready product? These are the questions discussed in the programme Latvia in Science by Gints Kučinskis, leading researcher at the University of Latvia’s Institute of Solid State Physics and head of the Energy Materials Laboratory, BioPhoT mentor Voldemārs Brēdiķis, and business developer Arta Zitmane.
Why do batteries age?
Kučinskis has been studying lithium‑ion batteries since his student years. Today, the demand for efficient energy‑storage systems is growing rapidly, and so is the interest in ways to make batteries more durable and cost‑effective.
He explains that the main challenge is battery ageing. Although it is an inevitable process, scientists are trying to identify which factors influence it the most and how they can be controlled. Temperature is one of the key aspects, but usage habits, charging modes, and other operating conditions also play an important role.
Kučinskis’ team is exploring how to apply this knowledge in practice by developing an algorithm that helps battery systems operate more efficiently and extends their lifespan. This insight has become the foundation for the team’s further work.
“We understand how batteries age quickly or slowly under different conditions — but hey, we can actually adjust those conditions so the batteries last longer.”
From scientific research to a real product
However, a scientific discovery alone does not guarantee a successful product. This is where the BioPhoT platform comes in. As Brēdiķis explains, one of the biggest challenges is bringing together two very different worlds — science and business.
Both Brēdiķis and Zitmane emphasise that scientists and entrepreneurs often look at the same problem from different perspectives. Researchers understand the technology in depth, while companies have a much clearer view of market needs.
Why is it easier to sell an algorithm than a physical product?
Zitmane helps translate the scientific solution into business language. She explains that an algorithm has a major advantage: it can be demonstrated to potential clients more quickly and adapted more easily to different needs than a physical product.
She also reminds us that behind every business decision are real people. In her view, the key is to find companies — and individuals — for whom this solution creates the greatest value.
Latvia’s opportunity in the growing battery sector
The discussion also touches on Latvia’s potential in the global battery industry. Although Latvia has no lithium deposits, this does not mean the country cannot be a significant player. According to Kučinskis, the real value lies in knowledge, research, and the ability to create new technological solutions.
The team is currently focusing on large‑scale battery energy‑storage systems used in solar and wind energy projects. In this segment, battery lifespan directly affects return on investment, so any solution that can extend system lifetime can generate substantial economic benefits.
Unlike mobile phones or electric cars, in these systems each additional year of battery operation can translate into significant financial gains — which is why this segment appears particularly promising for the team.
