UKRI allocates 28 million pounds to advance long duration energy storage

UK Research and Innovation has committed 28 million pounds to a new initiative designed to reduce the nation’s dependence on costly power sources. The Ultra-Long Duration Energy Storage challenge will provide grants to support the development of innovative technologies, with a specific focus on advanced battery systems and underground hydrogen storage solutions.

Innovators across the United Kingdom are now invited to submit bids for funding. Successful projects must demonstrate the capability to supply clean electricity for a minimum of 100 hours. This duration is sufficient to power homes and businesses for at least four days, addressing the intermittent nature of renewable generation. Currently, wind and solar represent the most economical methods of electricity production in the country. However, the absence of wind or sunlight limits their availability, forcing the grid to rely on alternative options such as gas-fired generation to maintain supply.

The funding programme will concentrate on two primary areas of development. The first involves creating new battery technologies capable of sustaining energy output for over 100 hours. The second focuses on supporting the development and testing of systems that store hydrogen underground, releasing it only when required. Government officials state that reducing reliance on natural gas will strengthen the United Kingdom’s energy security. While the gas system is expected to remain important for decades, improved energy storage is viewed as a vital component of the transition to clean, domestically produced energy. This shift aims to shield the nation from the impacts of international supply chain disruptions.

Science minister Chris McDonald emphasised that unlocking the potential of science and innovation can improve lives across the country. He noted that the challenge utilises world-class scientific expertise to benefit people in every postcode. McDonald added that clean sources of power are vital to meeting national energy needs. He stated that overcoming the challenge of storing renewable energy will improve energy security, reduce long-term energy bills, and leave the population better off.