Leadership Journeys [164] - Tom Einar Jensen - "The ability to live in constant change is quite important for leaders."

Choosing Leadership with Sumit Gupta

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

In this insightful interview, Tom Jensen, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Freyr Battery, takes us on a journey through the dynamic landscape of sustainable energy.

As a leading force in Norwegian battery cell manufacturing, Tom shares the remarkable story of Freyr's evolution, from going public on the New York Stock Exchange to pioneering disruptive technologies like the 24m battery.

With an economist's background, Tom delves into the intricate balance between technology, market understanding, and raising capital—a must-listen for budding entrepreneurs navigating the sustainable energy sector.

Engagingly, he explores the personal journey that fueled his passion for sustainable development, intertwining experiences from the oil and gas industry with a commitment to global change.

Tune in for a captivating conversation that not only highlights the challenges in renewable energy but also provides valuable insights for leaders navigating the evolving landscape of innovation and sustainable business.

You can find Tom Einar Jensen at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaibhavmittalindia/
• https://twitter.com/vaibhavmittal_

In the interview, Tom Einar Jensen shares

• "We are the leading Norwegian initiative for sustainable battery cell manufacturing, listed on the New York Stock Exchange after relocating from Luxembourg to the United States."
• "Freyr Battery is dedicated to large containerized energy storage solutions using LFP batteries, with a focus on scaling disruptive technology like 24m for larger and thicker batteries."
• "Our facility in Moirana, Norway, is the largest and most advanced battery manufacturing facility globally, emphasizing our commitment to sustainable energy solutions."
• "My background in economics has fueled a 15-year journey leading disruptive technology in renewable energy, from hydrogen to solar and now batteries."
• "I've been preoccupied with sustainable development, influenced by my experiences in the oil and gas and aluminum industries, realizing the climatic impact of fossil fuels on the environment."
• "Success in startups is about a viable value proposition based on sound technology, understanding market dynamics, and securing the right people and funding over time."
• "To be credible stewards of investors' money, understanding the subject matter is crucial, whether it's technology, physics, chemistry, or the intricacies of renewable energy."
• "The integration of private and public initiatives is crucial for a sustainable energy transition, with China and the U.S. taking significant steps forward in renewable energy leadership."
• "Aspiring to be a spokesperson for global battery industry enablement, I believe in the importance of deploying facilities locally for critical energy infrastructure."
• "We are in the steepest part of the adoption curve for renewable technologies, beyond early adopters. The disruptive environment requires us to get up early to compete and clean up the mess for future generations."