Project overview
A technology hub unique in Europe is being created in Laufenburg on a site covering more than 40,000 m². The combination of energy, artificial intelligence and research makes the Technology Center Laufenburg a hotspot in modern energy history.
In the Rhine town of Laufenburg in the canton of Aargau, a hotspot for the energy future is taking shape. Through dynamic collaboration with universities and leading technology companies, we are creating a unique center of excellence. The various innovation sectors will generate hundreds of highly qualified jobs and provide professionals, students, and research institutions with the ideal platform for pioneering developments.
The direct connection to Europe’s largest energy hub offers numerous advantages. Major energy suppliers and large-scale energy consumers are strategically positioned at this location and can operate with virtually zero transmission losses. This makes the Star of Laufenburg the ideal site for an energy storage facility of this scale.
Energy system of the future
FlexBase combines renewable energy, storage technology, artificial intelligence, and waste heat utilization into a holistic energy system.
Renewable energies such as solar, wind, and water provide the sustainable basis — the redox flow battery storage system makes this energy available at all times, stabilizes the grid and ensures security of supply even in critical situations.
What the project entails
The project combines several key components to form an integrated infrastructure. Each component fulfills a clearly defined task - together, they form a sustainable system for energy, data processing and heat supply. From the structural basis and energy storage to artificial intelligence and intelligent heat utilization, all elements mesh seamlessly with one another.
New construction of technology center
The construction of the new technology center will create a modern campus for energy and innovation in Laufenburg. Covering an area of 40,000 m², the campus will combine battery storage, an AI data center, office space and laboratories. Sustainable construction, the highest safety standards and energy-efficient infrastructure make the site a showcase project for European technology development.
Redox Flow Battery Storage
The world's largest redox flow battery storage facility is being built at the heart of the technology center. Among other things, this innovative technology impresses with its sustainability: it is recyclable, non-flammable and non-explosive. This powerhouse will help to stabilize the energy supply in Switzerland and important parts of Europe in the long term.
AI data center of the future
The AI data center combines cutting-edge technology with the highest security standards and guarantees a future-proof, scalable solution for hyperscalers. The FlexBase “Sovereign AI Factory” sets new standards in terms of performance, security, sustainability and future-proofing.
Construction progress overview
The project is growing step by step. Construction, infrastructure and technical systems are being implemented and further developed in coordinated phases. Progress is structured and guided by clear milestones until completion.
Frequently asked questions
FlexBase is creating a technology site in Laufenburg that is unique in Europe, covering an area of over 40,000 m². The Technology Center Laufenburg brings together energy, artificial intelligence and research. At the heart of the project is a pioneering redox flow battery storage system that stores surplus renewable electricity and releases it when needed, stabilizing the grid and strengthening the security of supply in Switzerland and Europe. In addition, the project is creating the world's first Sovereign AI Factory in accordance with Swiss standards: an AI data center that differs from conventional data centers.
Due to safety, scalability, and sustainability.
The electrolyte fluid in redox flow batteries consists of around 75% water, which makes it neither flammable nor explosive.
The storage capacity depends solely on the size of the tanks. To store more energy, larger or additional tanks can be used relatively easily and simply without having to enlarge the cells themselves. Since the electrodes are not degraded (as is the case with lithium-ion batteries, for example), redox flow batteries have a very long service life. If we look at common lithium-ion batteries, such as those found in cell phones, laptops, or electric cars, the degradation is clearly visible.
In addition, lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to overheating or fire. To limit this risk, the batteries must be heavily cooled, which consumes energy. The result is an efficiency that, on closer inspection, no longer appears as lucrative as it might at first glance.
Redox flow technology also offers clear USPs in terms of sustainability. The electrolyte fluid can be reprocessed and recycled almost 100%. Redox flow batteries are particularly well suited for applications where large amounts of energy need to be stored, such as renewable energies (solar and wind energy) or in stationary energy storage systems, as they can be used reliably over long periods of time.
FlexBase Group is an independent, autonomous group of companies financed by private equity and funds. FlexBase currently operates without any government involvement. FlexBase Holding AG is 100% Swiss-owned.
The Star of Laufenburg is the center and birthplace of the European power grid.
In 1958, the power grids of Germany, France and Switzerland were interconnected for the first time at the 220-kilovolt voltage level in Fricktal, Laufenburg, in the canton of Aargau. This brought the Central European countries closer together and with the switchgear known as the “Star of Laufenburg,” the European power grid was born.
Laufenburg is the heart and oldest node of the European power grid. The location is unique with:
- 41 cross-border lines
- 147 switchgear stations
- 380 and 220 kilovolt voltage
- 6,700 kilometers in length
- 12,000 pylons
The electricity location enables a direct connection to the battery storage facility without detours or power loss, making it an ideal location for the storage facility. The existing former Swissgrid building is being revitalized and offers over 400 office workstations for employees.