Technology designed to bolster resilience of the electric grid and provide a way to store large amounts of energy from renewable sources is available, according to researchers from the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).

The technology involves vanadium redox flow batteries – large batteries designed to store massive amounts of energy for long periods. These batteries hold the potential to store energy from renewable wind and solar sources and to make that energy available when the sun isn’t shining or the wind stops blowing. PNNL has already partnered with two companies that are bringing this technology to market. Now, a third and final semi-exclusive battery technology license is available. In addition to the vanadium redox flow battery technology license, PNNL has developed a related, high-performance mixed-acid electrolyte that can store more energy than many other technologies, over a wide range of temperatures. The electrolyte technology, compatible with redox flow battery technology, is currently licensed and available on a non-exclusive basis to chemical manufacturers. “PNNL offers technologies on a competitive basis to potential industry partners with the goal of enhancing national security and providing taxpayers the maximum return on impact,” said Christina Lomasney, director of commercialization at PNNL. “Once we have selected licensing partners, PNNL collaborates closely with them to support and improve the success of their market offering.” Read more at PNNL.