The Energy Storage Innovations prize is seeking next-generation energy storage technologies to inform DOE’s strategy on transformative storage technologies to accelerate grid modernization and decarbonization. One technology area of interest is electrochemical energy storage.
Electrochemical storage systems use chemical reactions to convert and store energy, encompassing a range of battery chemistries and designs as well as reversible fuel cells for stationary and transportation applications. –Energy Storage Grand Challenge
Electrochemical energy storage currently dominates the market for new grid deployments in the form of lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are proven systems and cost-effective at short durations, but they also present supply chain challenges and are less cost-effective at longer durations. Lithium-ion batteries and other well-established battery technologies—including sodium-ion, lead, zinc, redox flow, and supercapacitors—will be highlighted in the Storage Innovations 2030 Framework and are not of interest to this prize.
However, energy storage innovation opportunities are endless, and emerging electrochemical battery technologies may support grid-scale, long-duration-capable systems of the future. Among these, we’ve identified metal-based batteries (such as lithium-metal and sodium-metal) or reversible fuel cells as potential technologies of interest.
Example Research: Sodium-Metal Batteries
“We see a lot of potential in sodium-based battery technologies to help meet the challenges facing decarbonization today,” said Erik Spoerke, Sandia National Laboratories. “Sodium offers a cost-effective option for batteries because it is both readily abundant here on earth and already processed in large quantities. Molten sodium batteries are one emerging technology area we are excited about.”
Unlike sodium-ion batteries, sodium-sulfur and sodium-metal-halide batteries use a molten-sodium anode and thus require significantly different cell architectures. Both technologies use a solid ceramic electrolyte and, as a result, require costly high-temperature operating systems. Further research and innovative technology designs are needed to overcome these barriers.
Learn more about sodium-based batteries.
For more information on which technologies are eligible for the Energy Storage Innovations Prize, please view the Official Prize Rules.
