The European Investment Bank (EIB) announced a €430 million loan to SKF, a global leader in bearings and seals manufacturing, to fund research, development, and innovation (RDI) projects to drive Europe’s green transition. The Swedish firm will use the EIB loan over the next four years to advance technologies in six European nations such as Austria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden.
Founded in 1907, SKF will focus RDI on electric traction, wind energy, and low-carbon technologies like hydrogen and heat pumps. SKF’s technologies are key to Europe’s sustainable future, aiding the transition to renewable energy and supporting green mobility.
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Thomas Östros, EIB Vice-President said, “This loan underscores our commitment to supporting innovation for a greener future.”
He added, “As a driver of technological progress for over a century, SKF conducts advanced research in bearing and seal technologies that is crucial for renewable energy and electric mobility, aligning with our shared vision for a sustainable Europe.”
The EIB loan supports the EU’s climate goals, Horizon Europe, and REPowerEU, promoting innovation and the shift to renewables.
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Advancing RDI in Key Green Sectors
SKF’s RDI efforts will concentrate on advancing sustainable technologies through research in materials, product design, advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and predictive tech. Examples include innovations to reduce friction in electric traction systems and enhance the efficiency of wind-turbine gearboxes.
SKF is developing technologies to reduce carbon emissions in transportation and energy, positioning itself as a key player in Europe’s green transition. The loan also enables SKF to broaden its funding base. The loan’s long-term structure will drive technological progress and attract additional investments, ensuring the success of SKF’s sustainability initiatives.