UK Government Launches £28 Million Energy Storage Challenge
The UK government has launched the Ultra-Long Duration Energy Storage Challenge to develop technologies that can store clean energy for over 100 hours. This initiative aims to reduce the country's reliance on natural gas and protect households from price spikes.
Backed by £28 million, this challenge will support the development of new battery technologies and underground hydrogen storage systems. These innovations have the potential to deliver cost-effective electricity to the grid for extended periods.
The government notes that wind and solar power are currently the cheapest ways to generate electricity in the UK, but they are not always available due to a lack of wind or sunlight. This challenge will help to bridge this gap by developing storage solutions that can provide clean energy when it is needed most.
UKRI's Clean Energy Challenge Director, Jenny Hill, stated that ensuring the UK has efficient and effective energy storage technologies is crucial for the transition to a clean and secure energy system.