BKW is stepping up its involvement in the field of innovation and is investing CHF 1.68 million to acquire a stake in the Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology in Neuch â tel (CSEM SA). BKW aims to use the proximity to the internationally renowned research centre to strengthen its research activities in the field of new technologies, carry out further innovative projects with universities and in turn offer CSEM a platform for applied research. As BKW will directly contribute to the company's capital increase, it will also have a seat on the Board of Directors. BKW will also retain its seat on the CSEM's Scientific Advisory Board, through which it can help shape the research facility's development.

CSEM is focusing in particular on the production of coloured photovoltaic cells (OPV) and how they can be integrated into buildings. In collaboration with the Bern University of Applied Sciences and BKW, it also set up the Energy Storage Research Center, which promotes local and decentralised energy storage with the aim of minimising electricity flows. Other synergies between BKW and CSEM are in the management of autonomous distribution grids and smart buildings.

BKW set the course for implementation of the Confederation's energy strategy back in 2013 by setting up the BKW Technology Center in Nidau near Biel.

BKW Inc.

Bkw Inc. is an international energy and infrastructure business headquartered in Bern. Together with its subsidiaries, it currently employs some 3,500 people. The diversity of the company's expertise allows it to offer a full range of tailored services to customers throughout Switzerland. It plans, builds and operates infrastructure to produce and supply energy for businesses, households and the public sector. The BKW Group's distribution grid, the largest in Switzerland, provides one million people with a reliable supply of power around the clock.

The company has a strong sense of social responsibility. Alongside its investment in renewable energy, it seeks to make efficient use of resources. The BKW Group is committed to developing innovative technologies to support a sustainable, secure future for the supply infrastructure.

The registered shares of BKW Inc. are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and the BX Berne eXchange.

CSEM SA
CSEM, founded in 1984, is a research and development center (public-private partnership) specializing in microtechnology, nanotechnology, microelectronics, system engineering, photovoltaics and communications technologies. 450 highly qualified and specialized employees from various scientific and technical disciplines work for CSEM in Neuchâtel, Zurich, Muttenz, Alpnach and Landquart.

Further information is available atwww.csem.ch

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