The NEFI innovation network of science, technology providers and companies demonstrates a pathway towards the transformation of industry
NEFI – Austrian Industry and Technology Developers Tackling the Energy Transition
The switch to renewable energies to achieve the European climate protection goals is a major challenge for the Austrian manufacturing and energy-intensive industry. At the same time, Austrian technology providers have a great opportunity to expand their market leadership position worldwide and make a significant contribution to securing Austria as an industrial hotspot. NEFI – New Energy for Industry will demonstrate the pathway for the transformation of manufacturing and energy-intensive industry.
TheADC Pilot Factorywill demonstrate solutions for a flexible and scalable low-voltage DC grid in a semi-industrial environment. Don’t miss it!
At the Austrian DC Pilot Factory, a machine tool and an industrial robot are connected as consumer within a DC microgrid. Renewable energy is provided by a photovoltaic system, while a bidirectional charging station, together with an electric vehicle, offers energy storage capability. When required, stored energy can be fed back into the DC microgrid. The factory’s energy management system monitors, controls and optimises the overall energy flow.
The electrification of heavy goods transport is gaining momentum!
The event highlights the challenges and solutions associated with the electrification of heavy goods transport and places the practical use of electric trucks at centre stage. It presents research findings and practical expertise through real-world examples that demonstrate concrete solutions for low-emission, efficient and reliable heavy goods transport.
At Hannover Messe 2026, it became clear where industrial energy supply is heading: direct current grids (DC grids) are becoming increasingly important for efficient and flexible energy use in industry. A key highlight was Siemens’ presentation of a new semiconductor power circuit breaker for DC applications. The SENTRON 3QD2, (Semiconductor Circuit Breaker, SCCB) (250 A, 1000 V DC), enables ultra-fast interruption of fault currents in the microsecond range on the basis of semiconductor technology.
On April 24th (5:00 – 11:00 p.m.), the “Long Night of Research”took place in Upper Austria. The NEFI partner Energiesparverband and STIWA invited visitors to Hagenberg, where they could playfully test the Energy.Factory, a programme targeting students (13 and 14 years).
“Energy transition as a career: How do I make the best, most efficient, and most sustainable chocolate?” was the motto of the station in the Hagenberg Software Park.
