Christoph Birkl

Christoph Birkl is the co-founder and CEO of Brill Power, a pioneering company that originated as a spin-out from the University of Oxford. Established in 2016, Brill Power specializes in innovative battery management systems (BMS) aimed at enhancing the performance and longevity of lithium-ion batteries, which are crucial for energy storage and electric vehicles. Under Birkl's leadership, the company has developed technology that can potentially increase battery lifespan by up to 60% and is actively involved in various research and development projects valued at over £2 million.124

Background and Education

Birkl holds a DPhil in Engineering Science from the University of Oxford, where he focused on energy storage technologies. His academic journey included significant research on lithium-ion batteries, which laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial venture with Brill Power. Prior to founding Brill Power, he worked as a postdoctoral research assistant at Oxford, contributing to projects that aimed to improve battery state-of-health characterization.134

Entrepreneurial Journey

Birkl's decision to become an entrepreneur was driven by his passion for renewable energy and the realization that effective energy storage is vital for a sustainable energy future. He co-founded Brill Power with colleagues Adrien Bizeray and Damien Frost after recognizing the potential for improving battery management systems to reduce waste and enhance efficiency. The company aims to set new standards in battery management technology, promoting sustainability in energy usage.24

Vision and Impact

Birkl envisions Brill Power becoming a leader in the battery management sector, advocating for a shift towards more sustainable practices in battery use. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and innovation, as he believes that successful entrepreneurship relies on building strong teams and understanding customer needs. He has expressed admiration for figures like Elon Musk for their ability to inspire belief in transformative technologies.12

Current Status

As of now, Brill Power is expanding its team and capabilities, with plans to scale its technology across various applications in both stationary energy storage and automotive sectors. The company has garnered attention from significant investors and partners, positioning itself as a key player in the transition to cleaner energy solutions.45