Clean Energy 2024

Step into the heart of innovation at the ‘chip lab of the world’, imec’s 300mm cleanroom for semiconductor research. Spanning 8,000 m² filled with the world’s most advanced lithograpy, etching and deposition tools, this is the place where the global semiconductor ecosystem – from material and tool suppliers to system companies – comes together to develop the next generations of semiconductor technologies. This tour offers you unique insight into how the future of semiconductors is being crafted today.

Europe has the deep tech, but does it have the industrial might to thrive in hard tech? Scaling deep tech industrial startups—whether building battery gigafactories, drone production plants, or EV factories—is one of the toughest challenges in the entrepreneurial world. In this keynote, we’ll explore why many hard tech ventures fail to transition from prototype to mass production. From the pitfalls of scaling too quickly without refining pilot lines to the immense capital requirements that outstrip traditional VC funding, this talk will provide actionable insights for founders, investors, and ecosystem builders. We’ll also discuss Europe’s need for competitive manufacturing capabilities, the role of strategic partnerships, and the growing opportunity in defense markets. Join us to uncover how Europe can rise to the challenge and lead the next wave of industrial innovation.

Join the optional EnergyVille tours and check out the various labs on-site that are used by imec, VITO and KU Leuven for their Energy research. There’s something for everyone: PV, batteries, electrochemistry, thermal systems, power conversion... In addition, we’ll also do a tour of the Open Living Lab where the research meets reality. It's a great chance to explore the unique EnergyVille environment and the innovative work it enables.

Ready to geek out with the minds shaping tomorrow's tech? Our "Deep Dive Dialogues" offer direct access to imec's technical experts in AI for Energy, Electrochemistry, Batteries, and Photovoltaics. These aren't lectures - you'll steer the conversation through live Q&A, challenging assumptions and exploring what you want to discuss. Claim your spot during registration for these 60-minute collaborative sessions, where domain mastery meets your burning questions.