The Virtual Learning Environment for Battery Technology (e-Battery Lab) project will develop three new online courses for the Open University, utilising the expertise and equipment of the new battery research laboratory.
The University of Eastern Finland has received a government grant from the Service Centre for Continuous Learning and Employment (SECLE) for the development of a virtual learning environment for battery technology. The aim of the grant is to promote energy transition by strengthening the expertise needed in the battery industry, the e-mobility infrastructure, and increasing the sustainability of electricity networks.
The Virtual Learning Environment for Battery Technology (e-Battery Lab) project by the Department of Technical Physics, the Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences and the Centre for Continuous Learning will develop three new online courses for the Open University, utilising the expertise and equipment of the new battery research laboratory. The project will be implemented in 2026–2027.
"In early 2026, we opened a new battery research laboratory, which offers a comprehensive arsenal of equipment for the manufacture of button cells and pouch cells and their electrochemical testing. In addition, the university has an extensive equipment base for characterising battery materials. The equipment base and research into battery technologies are constantly expanding, while we deepen our cooperation with companies," says Professor Vesa-Pekka Lehto from the Department of Technical Physics.
Expertise for the rapidly growing battery field
The battery industry has grown rapidly in Finland and has developed into an entity that covers almost the entire battery value chain. The e-Battery Lab training is aimed at professionals working in the battery industry and for all continuous learners looking to develop their knowledge and skills in the battery field. In addition, the courses will be available for elective studies for researchers and students.
The project includes three new online courses:
- An Introduction to Battery Technology and Industry, 1 ECT
- How Batteries Are Made, 1 ECTS
- Electrochemical Testing of Batteries, 3 ECTS
In the implementation of the courses, various digital, virtual, and gamified solutions are used to support learning. For example, a course related to battery manufacturing creates a gamified laboratory where you can practice manufacturing batteries online without physical equipment.
Flexible and free online courses for understanding batteries
The courses offer an easy way to understand the basics of battery technology, the battery industry and modern battery cells. The student learns the key operating principles of batteries and the significance of different cell components in terms of battery performance, safety and life cycle.
The training focuses on the key work phases of battery cell manufacturing and the basics of electrochemical testing. Understanding the test methods helps to interpret key figures describing the performance of batteries, evaluate the performance of materials and cells, and utilize the measurement results in battery research and product development.
After the training, the student will be able to work in the battery laboratory safely and in a goal-oriented manner. The student is familiar with the key laboratory methods and can work under supervision at first and later more independently in battery manufacturing and electrochemical testing.
Registration for the courses started on 15 October 2026, and courses open on 7 January 2027. The language is English, but courses can also be studied in Finnish. The studies are free of charge for everyone during the implementation of the project. From autumn 2027, the courses will be offered through Open University.
The training has been funded by the Service Centre for Continuous Learning and Employment (SECLE). The Service Centre promotes the competence development of working-age people and the availability of skilled labour. The operations of the Service Centre are overseen by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.
