UK Needs Long-Duration Energy Storage to Secure Clean Grid

The UK's electricity generation surpassed 50% from renewables in 2024, significantly cutting emissions. However, storing surplus wind and solar power remains a challenge. Last year, 10% of wind energy went unused due to grid imbalances. Meeting 2035 decarbonization targets requires substantial long-duration energy storage (LDES). Experts estimate the UK needs up to 15.3 GW of LDES capacity, a five-fold increase from current levels. Companies are developing solutions like flow batteries offering extended discharge times and liquid air storage plants. Thermal energy storage also presents an option for industrial heat generation. Government incentives, including a new cap-and-floor mechanism, have spurred significant investor interest. This policy aims to provide revenue certainty for LDES projects. The sector received 171 project proposals in its initial application phase. Developing this storage infrastructure is vital for a stable, clean energy future.