Betolar Plc has developed an innovative solution aimed at safeguarding essential infrastructure, including electrical substations. This initiative responds to the increasingly unstable security landscape affecting critical systems in Finland and across the globe.

Recent incidents in Finland and other parts of Europe have exposed the susceptibility of power grids and key infrastructure. Damage to electrical substations—especially to main transformers—can lead to extensive and prolonged disruptions in everyday operations. Replacing these transformers can take over a year due to extended lead times and high demand, resulting in substantial financial consequences.

Betolar’s solution focuses on preventing damage before it occurs, thereby ensuring continuity of supply. It offers a more economical option compared to the high costs associated with repairs, replacements, or recovery from intentional or accidental damage to critical components like transformers.

By utilizing locally available resources, the solution supports efficient implementation and sustainability. It is also designed to be repairable and restorable even in emergency or extreme conditions. The innovation leverages Betolar’s expertise in materials technology, ensuring durability against varying levels of explosive force.

Betolar has moved this solution into the commercialization stage and is currently in discussions with potential clients and partners for its rollout. The company aims to play a key role in both the design and delivery of the system, working closely with its network of collaborators.

Tuija Kalpala, President and CEO of Betolar Plc, stated: “Drone-related damage can be prevented with the right measures in place. As the security landscape evolves, there is a growing need for forward-looking, scalable protection strategies. At Betolar, we are using our materials expertise to enhance resilience in society. Protecting electrical substations is a practical and efficient way to strengthen supply security quickly and affordably.”

Betolar has also submitted a patent application to protect this innovation.

For further details:
Tuija Kalpala
President & CEO, Betolar Plc
Tel: +358 50 567 6608
Email: tuija.kalpala@betolar.com

Koch Strategic Platforms is leading a $90 million Series D funding round in Wildcat Discovery Technologies - a company that uses its own proprietary technology to rapidly develop new battery materials in pursuit of a “super cell” which can power electric vehicles (EV). Its proprietary technology uses three emerging technologies, including that of cobalt, nickel and lithium to create a its high energy density battery.

This is relevant and important because it removes the production process, improves transparency and visibility in supply chains.

This is why KOCH is making its second investment in Wildcat in recent years, said Jeremy Bezdek, Managing Director of KSP.

"Wildcat is a visionary company focused on innovative solutions to the challenges limiting the lithium-ion battery market."

Wildcat Technologies aims to have "supercells" ready for commercialization within the next two years. It will channelize the funds received from the additional funding by adding staff, boosting its research capacity and for expansion purposes.

Other investors in this round include Eastman Kodak and Fifth Wall Climate.

"As a truly multi-industry laboratory, Koch is an ideal partner to help develop the next generation of EV batteries," said Mark Gresser, Wildcat’s CEO. "We are excited to work with them again as they strive to bring innovative products to market."