Linda Fanney Valgeirsdóttir, the Managing Director of Alor, exudes enthusiasm as she talks about the company’s impactful endeavors in the realm of innovation. “We have been fortunate enough to work with strong partners and are now gathering artillery in order to strengthen our impact,” she remarks, alluding to the exciting projects currently in the works at Alor.
In today’s climate-conscious world, time is of the essence when it comes to addressing pressing environmental issues. Linda acknowledges this urgency, emphasizing the need to accelerate the energy transition. In Iceland, where Alor is based, the company stands out as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in this field.
Alor has dedicated the past three years to battery research and development, a testament to their commitment to sustainable solutions. While details about their upcoming projects remain under wraps for now, Linda shares that agreements have been reached and will be unveiled at the opportune moment.
Notably, Alor received recognition from the Global Women Inventors & Innovators Network, a testament to their pioneering work. Linda attributes this award to a two-year research collaboration with the University of Iceland. The project focuses on repurposing used electric car batteries to create a hybrid system, ultimately reducing oil consumption in electricity production.
Reflecting on her journey in the world of innovation, Linda emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment where diverse ideas can thrive. Her own career trajectory, which evolved from a decade as a lawyer in the public and private sectors to leading Alor, exemplifies the diverse opportunities within the innovation landscape.
Linda notes the significant shift in attitudes toward innovation and entrepreneurship, comparing it to her upbringing in Skagafjörður, Iceland. She acknowledges that today’s environment is far more positive and understanding of the challenges that come with innovation. Failures are no longer stigmatized but viewed as invaluable learning experiences.
Regarding Alor’s journey, Linda acknowledges the pivotal role that grants have played in their development. These grants have allowed Alor to build knowledge, gain trust, and establish credibility in their field. It has also piqued the interest of strong collaborators eager to work alongside them, which is crucial for a high-tech innovation company like Alor.
In Linda’s view, Iceland has the potential to lead the way in energy transition and sustainability. The country’s strong knowledge base and market awareness, coupled with the Alor brand’s strength, position Iceland favorably in this regard. The urgency of addressing rising oil consumption in electricity production underscores the importance of these endeavors.
As Alor continues to innovate, Linda underscores the need for startups to move from the realm of research and development to real-world testing. She advocates for transparency and open communication, noting that sharing both successes and failures is essential for progress. With Iceland’s energy exchange ambitions in sight, she emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly to power the nation’s future.
