Report Urges Action on LDES for UK Government

Outlined in the "Long-duration Energy Storage: Get on with it" report is the pressing need for swift governmental action to facilitate the scaling up of long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies. The aim is to integrate these technologies into the electricity system's decarbonisation efforts within a mere 11 years.

This committee, a constituent of several select committees established by the House of Lords, is tasked with examining and delving into overarching issues impacting the nation. The report underscores the necessity for a coordinated approach to catalyse investment in LDES and ensure the provision of a strategic reservoir of storage. Such measures are vital not only for achieving net zero emissions but also for shielding the UK from potential energy supply disruptions - an assertion echoed by stakeholders across the energy sector.

One prominent concern raised by industry players in response to the government's consultation on LDES technologies revolves around the exclusion of lithium-ion batteries from the LDES framework. Notably, Luke Gibson, COO of battery developer-operator Field, argued that the exclusion of lithium-ion technology for durations of up to 6 hours warrants reconsideration.

The committee's report addresses this issue, emphasising that the predominant emphasis on lithium-ion batteries has posed a significant impediment to the advancement of LDES technologies. It asserts, "One of the key barriers is that there is still too much focus on lithium-ion.". Despite expressing appreciation for the government's recent energy system reforms, such as the commitment to crafting a Strategic Spatial Energy Plan, the report raises concerns regarding the ambiguity surrounding the plan's implementation and the management of future energy supply crises.