energy storage

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a groundbreaking algorithm that significantly cuts the cost of simulating atomic interactions on material surfaces. By using artificial intelligence and machine learning, they can effectively capture key chemical processes with less than 2 percent of possible atomic configurations. This innovation, detailed in Chemical Science, paves the way for more efficient studies of complex materials, crucial for advancing next-generation batteries, capacitors, and catalysts. This breakthrough holds promise for improving energy storage and conversion technologies.

Green hydrogen—hydrogen produced via water electrolysis powered by renewable energy—emerges as a cornerstone of a decarbonized future. It serves as both an energy carrier and a raw material, enabling industries to transition away from fossil fuels. By relying on electricity generated from solar or wind farms, green hydrogen production can be nearly climate-neutral. However, large-scale deployment faces a persistent challenge: the need for efficient, low-cost catalysts to drive the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at both electrodes of an electrolyzer. Until recently, precious metals such as iridium and platinum were the benchmarks for catalytic activity. Their scarcity and exorbitant cost impede the widespread adoption of green hydrogen. Consequently, research efforts have pivoted toward catalysts comprised of earth-abundant elements.

Australia’s renewable energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with a marked surge in household battery storage installations. According to recent data, approximately 75,000 battery storage systems were installed last year—a 47% increase from 2023—bringing the total number of systems across the country to over 320,000. This impressive growth reflects a broader trend: as solar feed-in tariffs continue to plunge, more households are choosing to store their own solar energy rather than sell it back to the grid.

Construction has officially commenced on the first large-scale battery energy storage system in the New England region of New South Wales. The project is being developed alongside the 720MW New England Solar Farm, which remains the largest solar project in Australia.

Explore the transformative potential of flow batteries in advancing renewable energy storage solutions in Australia. This blog post discusses the advantages, challenges, and ongoing developments in flow battery technology, highlighting its unique scalability and long cycle life. Learn how Australia is positioning itself as a leader in this sector amidst global advancements and the imperative for sustainable energy systems. Discover the critical role flow batteries play in integrating solar and wind energy into the grid and the proactive steps being taken to enhance local production and innovation.