lacise - News & Events

LACISE Researchers Present their latest work at NordBatt 2026

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 11:20:00 +0000

Researchers from the LACISE partner institution, the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, attended the 7^th Nordic Battery (NordBatt) Conference (September 22-24) in Espoo, Finland, presenting their latest findings in battery materials research.

NordBatt is a leading conference in the Nordic and Baltic region focusing on battery technologies and energy storage. It brings together researchers, industry representatives, and other experts working to achieve the next generation of sustainable energy solutions. The conference is organized by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and Aalto University at the Otaniemi campus area, Espoo.

At the conference poster session, Ināra Ņesterova presented her research "Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of LiMn₁₋ₓFeₓPO₄ for Lithium-Ion Batteries". The work explores lithium iron-manganese phosphate materials for lithium-ion battery cathodes and examines how compositional changes affect their electrochemical performance.

Ināra Ņesterova at the NordBatt 2026 poster session.

Meanwhile, Niks Renārs Smelters presented the poster "Synthesis of Lithium-Rich Cobalt-Free Layered Oxide Cathode Material Li₁.₁₆Ni₀.₁₉Fe₀.₁₈Mn₀.₄₆O₂ and its Electrochemical Properties". His research focuses on cobalt-free cathode materials, an area attracting growing interest as researchers seek to lower reliance on critical raw materials while retaining high battery performance.

Niks Renārs Smelters at the NordBatt 2026 poster session.

Participating in NordBatt 2026 provided an opportunity to share research results with the international battery community, receive feedback from experts, and learn about the latest developments in energy storage materials and technologies. The conference likewise fostered valuable discussions and networking with researchers across Europe, helping build connections for future collaboration.

The research presented at NordBatt 2026 supports the general objectives of the LACISE project, which focuses on developing advanced materials and technologies for sustainable energy applications.

More information about the NordBatt conference

LACISE Representatives Explore Switzerland’s Innovation Journey from Lab to Market

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:04:00 +0000

From 14 to 17 September, representatives of Latvia’s public administration, research institutions, and industry took part in an experience-exchange visit to Switzerland, including Gints Kučinskis, Coordinator of the LACISE project, and Anna Mutule, LACISE project representative. The visit focused on the commercialisation of research results, technology transfer, and building effective collaboration between science and industry.

The delegation brought together representatives from the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia, the Ministry of Economics, the Ministry of Finance, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science, Riga Technical University, LAU Infra Group, and the Association of the Latvian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industry.

Over four days, participants gained insight into the entire innovation lifecycle, from research policy and funding mechanisms to technology transfer, industry collaboration, and the successful introduction of new solutions to the market. The Latvian delegation met with representatives of the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), Innosuisse, and the Swiss National Science Foundation, and visited leading Swiss innovation and research organisations, including the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM), the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Park Innovaare, the knowledge and technology transfer centre ANAXAM, the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), and the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa). Together, these visits showcased different stages of the innovation value chain, from policymaking and funding to industry collaboration, technology transfer, and real-world application.

Gints Kučinskis, LACISE Project Coordinator:

The visit not only helped strengthen existing partnerships but also provided valuable insight into how Switzerland successfully ensures that innovations developed through research reach industry and deliver tangible benefits to society.

Latvian delegation visits LACISE partner organisation, the Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM)

From Research Results to Real-World Impact

One key takeaway from the visit was that innovation requires more than funding alone. For a scientific idea to evolve into a market-ready product or technology, it needs a supportive ecosystem that combines research infrastructure, expert knowledge, prototyping capabilities, technology validation, and close cooperation with industry.

The delegation observed this approach in practice across several Swiss institutions. For example, CSEM develops technologies together with industrial partners, PSI helps research results reach companies, while ANAXAM provides businesses with access to advanced analytical methods and research infrastructure that would otherwise be difficult and costly to establish independently.

Particular attention was also given to methods for engaging companies earlier in the research process and creating effective mechanisms for research commercialisation. The Swiss example demonstrates that successful innovation ecosystems are built on long-term collaboration between science, industry, and the public sector.

Representatives of the Latvian delegation visit the Swiss Light Source (SLS) at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), a synchrotron radiation facility used for research in materials science, biology and chemistry.

Early Industry Engagement Is a Prerequisite for Success

According to Andris Anspoks, Director of the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, which is the coordinating institution of the LACISE project, Switzerland’s experience highlights the importance of considering practical applications from the earliest stages of research:

Switzerland’s success is rooted in long-term investment in science-driven innovation. From the very beginning, every idea needs both a customer and a clear objective: commercialisation. For innovation to succeed, patience and continuous development are essential, supported by trust and the freedom to make mistakes. The Swiss model demonstrates that this approach works. Latvia has the same opportunity to invest today in technologies that will define our exports and competitiveness ten years from now.

The visit also underscored the importance of incremental innovation. Breakthrough inventions are not the only drivers of economic growth. Smaller technological improvements can significantly enhance productivity and competitiveness, particularly in economies where small and medium-sized enterprises play a dominant role.

Collaboration between universities and industry is equally important. Switzerland provides a strong example of how the early involvement of industry partners can accelerate the development of new technologies and increase their chances of reaching the market successfully.

This perspective is echoed by Maira Indrikova, Vice-Rector for Research at Riga Technical University, another LACISE partner institution:

Switzerland is a country from which we can learn a great deal about successful innovation. One of the most important prerequisites is close collaboration between industry and universities from the earliest stages of research. This visit was truly inspiring, offering new insights, valuable connections, and shared ideas for future projects. I am delighted to have had the opportunity to meet so many like-minded professionals and to continue building partnerships that can evolve into real-world solutions.

During a visit to the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW).

Strong Ecosystems Drive Technology Transfer

Modris Greitāns, Director of the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science and representative of a LACISE partner institution, emphasised the value of learning from Switzerland’s approach to technology transfer and intellectual property management:

The visits to CSEM, PSI, ZHAW and Empa provided an excellent opportunity to see first-hand how Switzerland has built a research and innovation ecosystem that closely connects science, the public sector and industry. It was particularly valuable to observe how non-profit research institutes operating through public-private partnerships function, as well as how intellectual property management and technology transfer are organised in a straightforward and efficient manner. Switzerland’s success in fostering high-tech companies, including innovative SMEs, demonstrates that this approach delivers results. Latvia can learn a great deal from this experience, both in shaping research and innovation policy and in organising institutional cooperation, technology transfer and knowledge commercialisation.

Valuable Lessons for the Future of LACISE

The visit provided not only an opportunity to compare Latvian and Swiss approaches to innovation but also highlighted issues that are particularly relevant to the goals of the LACISE project: engaging companies earlier in the research process, strengthening collaboration between research organisations and industry, improving technology transfer mechanisms, and ensuring that research results generate tangible value for society and the economy.

For the LACISE consortium, the experience offers valuable insights that will support the project’s continued implementation and strengthen collaboration between Latvian and Swiss research organisations, fostering innovation and accelerating the practical application of research in future energy and technology solutions.

The experience-exchange visit was organised within the framework of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme “Partnership in Applied Research: Innovative Materials, ICT and Smart Energy”, which promotes cooperation between Latvian and Swiss research institutions in applied research and supports the practical application of research results.

Further information about the Swiss-:Latvian programme available here.

Read the article about the visit on the website of the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia.

Discover the Future at European Researchers’ Night with LACISE

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 11:33:00 +0000

On 25 September, all three Latvian partners of the LACISE project invite everyone to explore the exciting world of science during European Researchers’ Night. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in experiments, demonstrations, and activities that showcase the future of energy, hydrogen technologies, smart energy systems, and battery technologies.

RIGA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology, 3/7 Paula Valdena Street, 2nd floor

Hydrogen for the Energy Systems of the Future
Explore a prototype of a decoupled electrolysis system and discover how clean hydrogen can be produced from water. Researchers will explain one of the most promising future energy technologies and its potential for sustainable energy development.

What Is Your Jewellery Made Of?
Find out the composition of your ring, necklace or other metallic object in just a few seconds! Using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer, you can discover which elements make up your jewellery.

INSTITUTE OF ELECTRONICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE (EDI)
14 Dzērbenes Street, Main Hall

Remote Sensing from a Bird’s-Eye View
Discover how scientists study the Earth from above! See a drone equipped with a hyperspectral camera, learn about remote sensing technologies and take part in an interactive game about the spectral reflectance of different objects. The most active participants will receive LACISE prizes. Drone demonstration: 19:00-20:00

Energy Systems in Real Time
Join a guided tour of the Energy Research Centre and learn how modern energy systems are modelled and managed. Observe real-time frequency and voltage measurements, fault detection and power system simulations using the OPAL-RT platform. Guided tours every hour.

Artificial Intelligence for Solar Energy Forecasting
Can a computer understand the sky? In this interactive demonstration, you will discover how computer vision algorithms identify clouds and the sun in images, segment objects and improve solar energy production forecasts.

INSTITUTE OF SOLID STATE PHYSICS, UNIVERSITY OF LATVIA
8 Ķengaraga Street

Exploding Hydrogen Bubbles (Tent outside the institute)
An impressive demonstration showcasing the energetic nature of hydrogen. Observe safe experiments where tiny hydrogen bubbles create surprising effects.

How Can Hydrogen Be Produced from Aluminium? (5th-floor lobby)
Did you know that hydrogen can also be generated from aluminium? Learn how this process works and explore the chemical reactions that may play an important role in future energy technologies.

Vehicles Powered by Future Energy (5th-floor lobby)
See a hydrogen-powered model car and solar-powered competition vehicle models. Discover how alternative energy sources are helping to create more sustainable transportation.

Test Your Knowledge in a Quiz (5th-floor lobby)
Take part in an engaging quiz about hydrogen and its applications. Questions are designed for both children and adults. The most successful and active participants will receive LACISE souvenirs. Bring your smartphone and join the challenge!

Build Your Own Battery (5th-floor corridor / Room 517)
Step into the role of a researcher and assemble your own battery! Learn what is inside a battery, how energy storage works, and see a special glove box system used by scientists for work in a controlled environment.

Swiss Ambassador Learns About EDI’s Research and Innovation

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:06:00 +0000

On August 31, 2026, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI) welcomed Anja Zobrist Rentenaar, the Swiss Ambassador to Latvia; Sandra Prince and Ieva Kalniņa, program specialists from the Swiss Cooperation Office (SCO), as well as Rita Strode, a senior expert representing the Ministry of Education and Science. The purpose of the visit was to learn about the EDI’s activities, its achievements to date, current research areas, and opportunities for international cooperation.

During the visit, the guests were introduced to EDI’s research infrastructure and toured the laboratories, where they met the institute’s scientists and researchers in person and learned more about their daily work, ongoing projects, and research. The laboratory visit offered practical insight into EDI’s scientific activities and the institute’s contribution to technological development.

During the visit, special attention was given to the LACISE project, a Swiss-Latvian cooperation program in which international collaboration plays a key role. The guests were introduced to the project’s main goals and objectives, progress, research areas, and team at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science. During the meeting, the project’s significance for transferring and practically implementing new knowledge and technological solutions was also discussed.

The visit to EDI underscored the importance of international cooperation in science and innovation and gave representatives of foreign and Latvian institutions a chance to gain firsthand insight into EDI’s research capabilities, the work of its scientists, and the projects the institute is carrying out.

Modris Greitāns, director of EDI, emphasizes the importance of the LACISE project:

“Switzerland is an internationally recognized leader in high technology, from which we can learn a great deal. Collaboration on the LACISE project allows us to combine our expertise in smart grids and artificial intelligence with Switzerland’s experience in smart energy. This is particularly significant for our young scientists – by working together and participating in an exchange program in Switzerland, they gain firsthand exposure to world-class research practices, thereby advancing both their own research and that of Latvia as a whole. The Swiss ambassador’s visit to our institute confirms that this collaboration is mutually beneficial, as the solutions developed by our researchers and our scientific capacity make a valuable contribution to addressing shared technological challenges.”

LACISE Inspires Children and Young People at the Mērsrags Science Festival "Mērsraga Ābols"

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:50:00 +0000

On 15 August, the LACISE team from the Energy Materials Laboratory of the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, represented by Ināra Ņesterova, Niks Renārs Smelters and Einārs Sprūģis, took part in the first-ever Mērsrags Science Festival "Mērsraga Ābols". At the Latvian Council of Science's Science Bubble tent, the team invited visitors to explore energy technologies and discover the exciting world of science.

Festival attendees could participate in two interactive LACISE activities that introduced modern energy storage and production technologies through hands-on experience and theoretical learning.

In the activity "Build Your Own Battery", children and young people had the chance to assemble a small working battery with their own hands. Step by step, participants learned the basics of electrochemical processes, discovered how electricity is generated, and gained insight into how batteries store energy. After completing the experiment, the young researchers measured the voltage of the batteries they built.

Ināra Ņesterova and Einārs Sprūģis explaining and demonstrating the basic principles of battery operation to festival visitors. Photo: Inese Jansone.

The second activity, "The Magic of Hydrogen", introduced visitors to one of the most promising energy carriers of the future. Through live demonstrations, participants learned about hydrogen's properties, methods for producing it from aluminum-containing waste, and its potential applications in energy generation. The hands-on experiments featuring exploding hydrogen bubbles attracted particular interest and excitement among visitors.

Photo: Niks Smelters demonstrates exploding hydrogen bubbles. Photo: Inese Jansone.

Throughout the festival, the LACISE activities drew the attention of families, children and young people alike. Visitors enthusiastically took part in battery-building experiments and engaged with the researchers by asking questions about energy storage, battery technologies and the future role of hydrogen in the energy sector.

Participation in the Mērsrags Science Festival provided an excellent opportunity to engage audiences beyond the capital city and show that science can be accessible, understandable, and exciting for everyone. Events like these play an important role in sparking children's and young people's interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The goals of the LACISE project extend beyond generating research results. The project is also actively involved in science communication, education, and promoting STEM fields, helping raise awareness of sustainable energy solutions while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Our experience in Mērsrags once again confirmed that curiosity, hands-on experiments and opportunities for active participation are among the most effective ways to open the door to science and inspire future researchers.

From Continental Grids to Smart Homes: Challenges and Opportunities in the Energy Transition

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:10:00 +0000

On 12 August 2026, the Swiss-Latvian Smart Energy Digital Center (part of the LACISE project) hosted the webinar From Continental Grids to Smart Homes: Challenges and Opportunities in the Energy Transition, bringing together experts from Switzerland and Latvia to discuss key developments shaping the future of energy systems.

The webinar examined the energy transition from two interconnected perspectives: the evolving European electricity grid and the growing role of smart energy solutions at the household level.

The first presentation, "The Continental European Power System: Current Landscape, Challenges, and Pathways Toward a Sustainable Future," was delivered by Dr. Rafael Segundo from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW). The presentation provided an overview of the Continental European power system and explored the increasing complexity of operating a grid that is rapidly integrating renewable energy sources. Using recent examples from across Europe, including major system disturbances and blackouts, Dr. Segundo highlighted the challenges and opportunities of building a more sustainable, interconnected, and resilient electricity system.

The second presentation, "EnergySmart Challenges in Latvia's Residential Market," was delivered by Egils Trumpe, Head of B2C at Ignitis Latvija. His presentation focused on changes taking place in Latvia's residential energy market, including the growing impact of renewable energy generation, evolving electricity consumption patterns, and the increasing need for active consumer participation in energy management. The presentation also showcased emerging approaches such as personalized tariffs, digital forecasting tools, smart integrations, energy storage, and electric vehicle charging solutions that can help households contribute to a more flexible and efficient energy system.

To ensure that attendees can access the full information presented by the speakers, both presentations are available:

The webinar was organized within the framework of the Swiss-Latvian Smart Energy Digital Centre, promoting knowledge exchange and collaboration in smart energy technologies and sustainable energy systems.

Next webinars in the series:

14 October 2026 – Batteries
9 December 2026 – Hydrogen

Register here to receive invitations and updates about upcoming events.

LACISE project Invites You to a Webinar on the Challenges and Opportunities of the Energy Transition

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 17:04:00 +0000

On 12 August 2026, from 13:00 to 14:00 EEST (12:00-13:00 CEST), the Swiss-Latvian Smart Energy Digital Centre, established within the LACISE project, will host an online webinar titled "From Continental Grids to Smart Homes: Challenges and Opportunities in the Energy Transition."

As countries across Europe accelerate the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems, the webinar will bring together experts from academia and industry to discuss developments spanning the entire energy value chain, from large-scale electricity networks to smart energy solutions for households.

The first presentation, "The Continental European Power System: Current Landscape, Challenges, and Pathways Toward a Sustainable Future," will be delivered by Dr. Rafael Segundo from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), Switzerland. His presentation will provide insights into the evolution of the European electricity grid, the growing integration of renewable energy sources, and the technical and operational challenges involved in maintaining a reliable and sustainable power system.

The second presentation, "EnergySmart Challenges in Latvia's Residential Market," will be given by Egils Trumpe from Ignitis Group Latvia. Ignitis Group is one of the largest integrated energy companies in the Baltic region, operating across electricity and gas supply, renewable energy generation, energy storage, and e-mobility solutions. The presentation will explore the opportunities and challenges of implementing smart energy technologies in Latvian households and highlight their role in supporting a more efficient, flexible, and sustainable energy system.

The webinar offers an opportunity for researchers, energy professionals, policymakers, students, and other stakeholders to gain insights into current trends shaping the energy transition and to engage in discussions on the future of sustainable energy in Europe.

Event Details

Date: 12 August 2026
Time: 13:00-14:00 EEST (UTC+3) / 12:00-13:00 CEST (UTC+2)
Venue: Online via Zoom
Language: English
Participation: Free
Join via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86990429440

More information about the Swiss-Latvian Smart Energy Digital Centre.

Latvia’s Role in Europe’s Energy Independence: LACISE Discussion at LAMPA Charts the Path from Research to Energy Independence

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:52:00 +0000

Will Latvia emerge as a leader or a follower in Europe’s energy transition? This was the central question explored during the discussion “Latvia’s Role in Europe’s Energy Independence and Sustainability”, held on 10 July at the LAMPA Conversation Festival, one of Latvia’s largest platforms for public dialogue and civic engagement.

The event took place on the stage of the European Commission Representation in Latvia, “Europe is here!” and was organized by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) and the LACISE project, in cooperation with the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (IECS) and the Swiss–Latvian Cooperation Programme.

LAMPA is much more than a festival. Held annually in the historic town of Cēsis, it provides an open platform for researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, civil society organizations, artists, and citizens to engage in conversations about the challenges and opportunities shaping society. Inspired by democracy festivals across the Nordic and Baltic regions, LAMPA has grown into one of the most influential public engagement events in the Baltics. The 2026 edition featured more than 400 events, brought together 1,445 speakers and attracted approximately 27,000 visitors over two days.

Against this vibrant backdrop, the conversation on energy independence provided an opportunity to connect cutting-edge scientific research with broader public debate. The audience included not only energy professionals and policymakers but also students, entrepreneurs, and citizens interested in understanding how energy security, innovation, and sustainability will shape the future of Latvia and Europe.

Today, energy is no longer simply a technical matter of power plants, transmission lines, and kilowatt-hours. It has become a question of national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life. The discussion therefore explored how Latvia can strengthen its energy independence while leveraging science, innovation and international cooperation to become an important contributor to Europe’s sustainable energy future.

Moderator Vita Brakovska together with the panelists and audience members. Photo: LETA.

The discussion was moderated by Vita Brakovska, PhD, Head of the association ZINIS, whose dynamic approach created an engaging dialogue between the speakers and the audience. From the outset, participants were invited to reflect on what concerns them most about Latvia’s energy independence. Is it security of supply, dependence on imports, technological development, financing, workforce skills, or other factors? This helped frame the conversation around both national priorities and individual responsibility.

The panel brought together experts from research and industry:

Gatis Junghāns, Member of the Management Board of the Latvian transmission system operator Augstsprieguma tīkls and Professor at Riga Technical University;
Dr. Aigars Laizāns, Professor and Senior Researcher at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Latvenergo;
Dr. Anna Mutule, Professor at Riga Technical University, Senior Researcher and LACISE Project Lead at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science;
Dr. Gints Kučinskis, Head of the Energy Materials Laboratory at ISSP UL, Leading Researcher and Coordinator of the LACISE project.

Together, they offered perspectives spanning power system operation, infrastructure development, artificial intelligence, advanced battery technologies and hydrogen solutions.

Panelists (clockwise from left): Anna Mutule, Gints Kučinskis, Gatis Junghāns and Aigars Laizāns. Photo: LETA.

One of the key themes was the resilience of future energy systems. The speakers emphasized that modern energy networks require much more than reliable infrastructure. Data-driven decision-making, digitalization, advanced forecasting, and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important for identifying risks early and ensuring stable system operation. Latvia, they noted, has several significant advantages: abundant renewable energy resources, well-developed grid infrastructure, strong connections with the European energy market, and internationally recognized scientific expertise.

One particularly engaging part of the session focused on energy resilience in everyday life. Vita Brakovska invited the audience to consider a simple yet powerful question: What would be your biggest challenge if Latvia experienced a 48-hour power outage tomorrow?

The responses quickly highlighted how deeply electricity is embedded in modern life, from communication and digital payments to heating, food supply, transportation and work. The exercise transformed energy security from an abstract policy concept into a tangible issue affecting every household.

Audience members were also encouraged to reflect on their own preparedness for unexpected disruptions. Do we have a Plan B, or even a Plan C, if electricity becomes unavailable? How many households have backup energy sources or alternative solutions? This part of the discussion underscored one of the event’s key messages: energy independence is not built solely by governments, researchers or energy companies. It is also shaped by countless individual decisions regarding energy efficiency, consumption habits, and preparedness.

Audience and panelists at the discussion “Latvia’s Role in Europe’s Energy Independence and Sustainability”. Photo: LETA.

The conversation then turned to emerging technologies. Dr. Gints Kučinskis highlighted the importance of advanced battery materials, battery longevity and hydrogen technologies for the long-term sustainability of Europe’s energy system. Dr. Anna Mutule focused on smart energy systems and the growing role of artificial intelligence in managing increasingly complex electricity networks.

A recurring message throughout the session was that Latvia does not necessarily need to become Europe’s largest producer of batteries or solar panels. Instead, the country has the potential to excel in knowledge-intensive niches where innovation creates the greatest value: advanced energy materials, battery technologies, digital solutions and intelligent energy management systems.

Another important topic was collaboration between science and industry. The panel explored how research results can be translated more effectively into practical applications, innovative products and exportable technologies. The speakers pointed out that internationally relevant research is already taking place in Latvia, including projects focused on AI-based solutions for energy system security, next-generation battery technologies and hydrogen innovations. At the same time, they acknowledged that transforming scientific breakthroughs into commercially viable products remains one of the country’s major challenges.

During the concluding round, each panelist shared a key takeaway on how Latvia can strengthen its energy independence in the years ahead. A common theme emerged: energy independence cannot be achieved through technology or policy alone. It requires long-term cooperation between researchers, industry, policymakers and society, combined with a willingness to take responsibility at every level, from national strategies to everyday choices.

The discussion at the LAMPA Conversation Festival demonstrated that Latvia possesses the scientific expertise, industrial experience and international partnerships needed to contribute meaningfully to Europe’s energy future. The question is no longer whether Latvia has the potential. The real challenge is how effectively that potential can be transformed into innovation, economic growth, and lasting energy resilience.

LACISE Partners Gather in Switzerland to Drive Smart Energy Innovation Forward

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:21:00 +0000

Project team and representatives from SECO at the Paul Scherrer Institute. Photo: Inese Jansone

On 17–18 June 2026, LACISE project partners met at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland for the latest General Assembly. The event brought together researchers, engineers, and institutional representatives from Latvia and Switzerland, marking a significant milestone toward smarter, more resilient energy systems.

Over two days, participants shared progress, exchanged ideas, and coordinated next steps. The meeting highlighted both technical achievements and the strong collaboration central to LACISE.

A Collaborative Effort Across Borders

The meeting gathered representatives from all consortium partners, including:

• Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL)
• Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (IECS)
• Riga Technical University (RTU)
• Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
• Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI)
• Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM)

Representatives from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) provided valuable insights, connecting the project’s scientific work to the broader goals of the Swiss Contribution programme. They shared reflections on progress and highlighted LACISE as a model of effective cooperation between Switzerland and Latvia.

Beyond institutional collaboration, the project is creating meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange at the individual level. As Emiliana Fabbri (PSI, WP5) explains:
“Many young researchers can spend short- or long-term visits here in Switzerland, at a well-established research institute. They learn not only new techniques, but also how research groups and institutes operate in practice.” This exchange is already producing tangible results.

“Within LACISE, we are collaborating with colleagues from Latvia to develop new materials. Students visit our group and carry out testing in our laboratories, where they can access facilities that are new to them. We hope this will lead to new materials for green hydrogen production,” she adds.

The strength of the consortium lies in its complementary expertise. As Philippe Dallemagne (CSEM) highlights: “The LACISE consortium brings together partners that complement each other very well — from basic research to technology transfer and industry engagement. At CSEM, we focus on innovation and technology transfer, connecting the research carried out in the project with industrial applications.”

LACISE team and SECO representatives at the Paul Scherrer Institute during the General Assembly of the project. Photo: Inese Jansone.

From Data to Decisions: Smarter Energy Systems

Researchers presented progress in developing and validating models of the Baltic power system using real-world data. Early results highlight the complexity of accurately capturing grid behavior during disturbances, which is essential for improving stability in a renewable energy future.

Teams are also building the necessary infrastructure. Advanced laboratories and real-time simulation systems now enable researchers to observe and analyze grid behavior in greater detail. A new event detection system can automatically identify disturbances using live measurement data, reducing manual analysis and enabling faster, smarter responses.

Beyond technical developments, the cooperation plays an important strategic role. As Gints Kučinskis (ISSP UL, LACISE coordinator) emphasizes: “There is a lot we can learn from Switzerland, but I am equally sure that Switzerland can learn from us. Switzerland has strong expertise in energy grid modeling, advanced energy storage solutions, and understanding materials at the nanoscale — down to atomic-level processes.” He adds: “At the same time, Latvia has a rapidly growing number of research teams motivated to apply this knowledge and contribute to a more stable and renewable energy system.”

Bringing Intelligence to Forecasting

Another key area is the development of AI-based tools to enhance forecasting and decision-making in energy systems.

These tools require high-quality data, and LACISE is making significant progress in this area. New low-cost smart weather stations are being tested in real-world conditions, collecting solar irradiance data to improve forecasting models. Deploying these systems is an important step in connecting physical measurements with digital intelligence.

LACISE team listens to the progress reports from the work package representatives. Photo: Inese Jansone

Developing the Technologies of Tomorrow

In addition to digital tools, LACISE is advancing the physical technologies required for the energy transition.

Sustainable Battery Materials

Researchers are developing next-generation battery components that are safer, more sustainable, and less reliant on critical raw materials. Promising results include:

• Cobalt-free cathodes with improved performance
• High-stability materials suitable for long-term energy storage

• New approaches to understanding how batteries age and degrade

Green Hydrogen Solutions

In parallel, teams are exploring innovative methods to produce hydrogen, a key energy carrier for the future. Progress is being made in several areas:

• Improved water electrolysis using advanced catalysts
• Photo-assisted processes that use light to boost efficiency
• Methods to generate hydrogen from aluminium waste, linking energy production with circular economy principles.

The practical importance of this work is already becoming evident in Latvia. As Andris Šutka (RTU, WP5) explains: “Our hydrogen-related research focuses on water electrolysis, using electricity to split water and produce hydrogen. We are developing materials for devices that could be commercialised, and several industries in Latvia are already interested.” He further highlights the broader impact:

“There is a growing start-up environment working on hydrogen technologies, and companies like Latvenergo are investing in greener energy approaches. We are in constant contact with industry partners. Importantly, this programme also helps attract more students to the field, which. Without this support, it would be much harder to advance our ideas.”

Together, these efforts demonstrate LACISE’s commitment to addressing energy challenges from multiple perspectives, including data, modeling, materials, and real-world applications.

LACISE team is ready for the Swiss Light Source tour. Photo: Inese Jansone

Experiencing World-Class Research Infrastructure

During their visit, project partners and SECO representatives also had the opportunity to tour the Swiss Light Source (SLS), an X-ray synchrotron facility at PSI — one of the leading research infrastructures in Europe.

The visit offered insight into cutting-edge analytical techniques used to study materials at the atomic and molecular level — capabilities that are essential for advancing research in areas such as battery materials and energy technologies. The tour provided valuable context for the experimental work presented during the meeting and highlighted the importance of access to world-class infrastructure in driving innovation.

LACISE partners at the SLS. Photo: Nathalie Estievenart

Strategic Context: The Swiss Contribution

The General Assembly also underscored the broader framework supporting the project.
LACISE is funded under the Swiss–Latvian Cooperation Programme, part of Switzerland’s second contribution to selected EU Member States. The programme aims to reduce economic and social disparities while strengthening bilateral cooperation.
LACISE embodies this vision by:
• Connecting institutions across countries
• Supporting knowledge exchange and skills development
• Delivering solutions that address shared challenges such as energy security and climate change

Reflection and Forward Look

At the end of the second day, a Stakeholder Advisory Board member representing A/S Latvenergo, Pēteris Lesničenoks, offered an external perspective on the project’s progress. The feedback recognized the strong results to date and encouraged continued focus on real-world applicability and integration.

Pēteris Lesničenoks (A/S Latvenergo) representing Stakeholder Advisory Board. Photo: Inese Jansone

The meeting concluded with a clear sense of momentum. While challenges remain, as expected for a project of this scope, the progress presented in Switzerland confirmed that LACISE is steadily advancing toward its goals.

By combining cutting-edge research, international collaboration, and a strong strategic framework, LACISE is helping to create a future where energy systems are more efficient, resilient, and sustainable.

Acknowledgements

The consortium extends its sincere gratitude to Sigita Trabesinger (Laboratory for Battery Science, PSI) and Emiliana Fabbri (Laboratory for Electrochemistry, PSI) for their excellent organisation of the General Assembly and for hosting the partners at the Paul Scherrer Institute.

We also warmly thank the SECO representatives – Nicolas Guigas and Nathalie Estievenart for their presence, engagement, and continued interest in the project's progress.

From data to devices and from laboratories to real-world impact, LACISE continues to show how collaboration can transform complex challenges into shared progress.

RTU Researcher Andris Šutka Presents LACISE Project Results at the E-MRS 2025 Spring Meeting

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000

From May 26 to 30, the Spring Meeting of the European Materials Research Society (E-MRS) took place in Strasbourg, France. As one of Europe's leading materials science conferences, the event brings together researchers, industry representatives, and innovation stakeholders to discuss the latest advances in materials synthesis, characterization, and applications in energy, electronics, sustainability, and other fields. The conference featured 23 thematic symposia, plenary sessions, oral presentations, and poster sessions, providing an international platform for scientific exchange and collaboration.

The LACISE project was represented by Andris Šutka, leader of Work Package 5 (WP5) at Riga Technical University (RTU), who presented a poster entitled “Photoanode-assisted membrane-free decoupled acid water electrolysis” within the symposium Engineered Nanomaterials for Energy and Environment: From Synthesis to Applications.

The presented research focused on the development of innovative hydrogen production technologies based on decoupled water electrolysis (DWE). Unlike conventional water electrolysis systems, where hydrogen and oxygen are generated simultaneously and must be separated by a membrane to avoid the formation of explosive gas mixtures, DWE divides water splitting into two independent steps. This approach eliminates the need for membranes, potentially reducing system complexity and operational costs while improving safety.

In the study, RTU researchers demonstrated how a WO₃-based photoanode can be integrated directly into an acidic DWE system to enhance its performance. The technology combines a WO₃ redox mediator, a WO₃ photoanode, and a platinum electrode. During the oxygen evolution step, light irradiation activates the photoanode, facilitating proton intercalation into the WO₃ mediator. In the subsequent hydrogen evolution step, the photoanode is disconnected, and the stored charge is utilized to produce hydrogen. The results showed that incorporating the photoanode significantly reduced the energy required for the process, increasing the overall energy efficiency from 65% to 82%. These findings highlight the potential of photoelectrochemical approaches to develop sustainable, cost-effective green hydrogen production technologies.

Participation in the E-MRS Spring Meeting provided an excellent opportunity to present the latest LACISE project achievements to the international materials science community, exchange knowledge with leading researchers, and explore future collaboration opportunities in the fields of hydrogen technologies, electrochemistry, and advanced functional materials.