Worcestershire businesses working in energy storage and clean technology are being encouraged to take note of a new funding competition from Innovate UK, supported by a free online briefing session this month.
The opportunity
UK-registered businesses can bid for a share of up to £3 million to fund project development studies focused on electrochemical Ultra Long Duration Energy Storage (uLDES) technologies. The competition is looking for projects that can show a credible route to delivering cost-effective electricity to the UK grid for durations of 100 hours or more, using technology that could support UK manufacturing and long-term deployment.
This is Phase 1 of a two-phase programme. Innovate UK has earmarked at least £13 million in total funding through to 2030, with the wider goal of establishing at least two demonstrator projects in the UK by 2031.
Who it’s for
This funding is likely to be of interest to:
- Businesses developing electrochemical energy storage solutions capable of delivering electricity for 100+ hours
- Technology developers and solution providers in the energy storage space
- Researchers and academic organisations working in this field
Free briefing and surgery sessions
Innovate UK Business Connect is running two online sessions to help potential applicants understand the competition and prepare a strong application:
- Briefing session: Thursday 7 August, 11am–12noon — covers the competition scope, eligibility, funding available, key dates and application process, including the two competition themes (near-commercial scale-up, and system innovation and low-cost pathways)
- Drop-in surgery: Thursday 27 August, 1.30pm–3pm — an informal Q&A session for applicants (not recorded)
Attendance isn’t compulsory and won’t affect funding decisions, but both sessions are designed to help you test whether your project is a good fit before you apply.
Register for the briefing and surgery sessions
Need support with your application?
If you’re a Worcestershire business considering applying, the Growth Hub team can help you think through your funding options and connect you with wider innovation support. Get in touch with us to discuss your project.
