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FEATURE
POWER
INVESTIGATING THE BENEFITS OF REDOX FLOW BATTERIES (RFBS) FOR ENERGY STORAGE
Robert Dryfe, Professor of Physical Chemistry at The University of Manchester and founder of HalioGen Power, explores how long duration energy storage technologies can pave the way for more sustainable practices
for a sustainable future. Key to this transformation is the establishment of robust energy storage infrastructure to ensure a continuous and reliable energy supply. Given the intermittent nature of renewable
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sources like solar and wind energy, it’s crucial to implement contingency plans to meet grid demands. Smart energy storage solutions can help prevent potential energy ‘blackouts’. The UK’s commitment to decarbonising
the electricity system by 2035 requires significant changes in power supplies. Therefore, the transition to renewables must be paired with large-scale battery storage and advanced technology to maintain energy reliability and efficiency.
RETHINKING ENERGY STORAGE Conventional grid-level or domestic battery storage solutions predominantly rely on lithium- ion batteries. However, these are not ideal for large-scale energy storage due to their significant limitations. These batteries are cost-prohibitive, depend on scarce materials, and can drive prices up. The extraction process of the battery raw materials is also energy intensive. To address these challenges, the research
team at The University of Manchester are looking at redox flow batteries (RFBs) as a less resource- intensive and more affordable energy storage solution. Capable of storing energy for over ten hours, RFBs stand out as an ideal candidate for long-duration energy storage (LDES). RFB systems typically feature two tanks
for storing charged electrolytes, allowing a separation of power and capacity. This unique design enables a large tank with a small cell to deliver high energy with low power, and smaller tanks paired with a larger cell to offer high power with lower energy. The adaptable configuration makes RFBs a promising storage option for sustainable energy. Significant developments are underway in RFB technology, including a recently completed 100MW/400MWh system in Dalian, China. Traditionally, vanadium has been the ‘active’ metal in these systems due to its durability and almost indefinite cycling capability. However, the high cost and scarcity of vanadium
s the world races toward Net Zero, innovative solutions to harness energy from renewable sources are essential
have limited the widespread adoption of RFBs.
THE SUSTAINABLE ROUTE RFBs are ideal for grid applications due to their scalability, moderate maintenance costs, and recyclability. They offer over 10,000 cycles and a 10–20-year lifespan, with independently replaceable components, ensuring longevity and a circular approach.
input to ensure investor confidence through revenue certainty. This framework will provide essential infrastructure, supporting the UK’s Net Zero goals while safeguarding the environment and energy security. We also support the mandatory implementation
of Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs), which specify optimal locations for clean energy generation and storage facilities to maximise the decarbonisation
“Vanadium extraction is energy-intensive and environmentally detrimental. By
removing vanadium from our RFB designs, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their production”
Our research at the University of Manchester
focuses on enhancing sustainability by developing RFBs that eliminate the need for rare materials like vanadium. Typically found in magnetite iron ore deposits and mined as a byproduct, vanadium extraction is energy- intensive and environmentally detrimental. By removing vanadium from our RFB designs, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their production. Another critical component of current RFBs is the membrane that separates the two halves of the electrochemical cell. Our research aims to eliminate the need for this membrane, thereby extending the lifespan of flow batteries. This advancement offers greater sustainability, the battery will not need to be replaced as often as current rates.
INNOVATION FOR NET ZERO To achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 and decarbonise electricity by 2035, the UK must overhaul domestic and industrial power supplies. Merely using renewable sources is inadequate – long-duration energy storage (LDES) solutions are essential. The UK government needs to integrate renewable initiatives with new storage technologies to effectively store renewable energy. It has been recommended that The Department
for Energy Security and Net Zero boost LDES investment with a cap and floor scheme, seeking
52 DESIGN SOLUTIONS SEPTEMBER 2024
of homes, businesses, and industries. Urgent action is needed to implement new
standards and frameworks for Net Zero targets. We require affordable, safer and long-lasting energy storage solutions to support renewable energy. Cost-effective LDES technologies hold the potential to unlock a genuinely sustainable future.
The University of Manchester
www.policy.manchester.ac.uk
Professor Robert Dryfe
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