•   How can vehicles, charging infrastructure, and grid technology be seamlessly integrated to support V2G? 

• What types of partnerships are essential to scale V2G adoption, and how can stakeholders collaborate effectively? 

• How can V2G transform home energy systems and optimise energy usage for households? 

• What are the main benefits and challenges of implementing V2G for commercial fleets? 

Meeting the UK’s ambitious 2030 energy targets could require doubling the rate of grid connections, highlighting the need for closer coordination between Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), developers, and Independent Connection Providers (ICPs). Complex approval processes and lengthy timelines in the DNO-developer-ICP interface currently impede swift project deployment. Adapting regulatory frameworks to allow for faster, more flexible asset connections will be crucial to bridging these gaps.  

 This session explores the primary challenges and examines collaborative models and advanced technologies that can streamline connections, align stakeholders, and accelerate progress toward a responsive, future-ready grid infrastructure. 

 Discussion Points:  

What are the key obstacles in the current DNO-developer-ICP interface, and how can we streamline processes for faster grid connections?

How can regulatory and policy frameworks adapt to support more agile and efficient asset connection timelines?

What collaborative models and technologies can help align DNOs, developers, and ICPs to meet 2030 energy targets?

Mass adoption of solar and batteries is becoming increasingly achievable as technological advances and cost reductions take place. Over the past decade, the cost of solar photovoltaics (PV) and storage systems has fallen by significant amounts, with utility-scale solar PV costs dropping by 82%​. In fact, solar and battery storage are projected to comprise 81% of new U.S. electric-generating capacity in 2024​.  These advances, coupled with greater energy efficiency and performance, are making these technologies more accessible to mainstream consumers. 

However, challenges remain in terms of infrastructure, policy, and financing to support this scale. The key to mass-market adoption lies in improving integration, reducing installation costs, and encouraging regulatory frameworks that support long-term investment.  

 This session explores how solar and battery technologies can be scaled effectively and what further innovations are necessary to make clean energy solutions truly mainstream​.

Discussion Points:  

How we Make solar and batteries truly mass market? 

How can policy better support long-term solar and battery investment? 

What financing models could make solar and battery solutions more accessible? 

What infrastructure upgrades are needed to integrate large-scale solar and batteries into the grid? 

How can we make solar and batteries truly mass market?

Scandinavia is leading the charge in decentralised energy generation and the electrification of heating and transport, with renewables and EVs now dominating their respective sectors. However, this rapid transition has strained the grid, causing congestion and failures – often at the worst possible moments. Every Christmas, local blackouts make headlines, with images of families barbecuing their Christmas dinners outside by torchlight.

This presentation explores the effects of recently introduced time-varying and capacity-based electricity tariffs in Scandinavia. We’ll examine how these pricing mechanisms are shifting consumption patterns, influencing investment decisions, and whether they’re enough to prevent the next grid meltdown.

As global energy demand rises, the need for reliable and sustainable storage solutions is more important than ever. This talk will introduce redox flow batteries (RFBs), explaining how they work and how they compare to other battery technologies in terms of lifespan, safety, and scalability. A key focus will be their suitability for hot climates, where high temperatures can reduce the performance and safety of conventional batteries. Mhor Energy is currently leading an Energy Catalyst grant project exploring energy storage deployment in Indonesia, assessing the role of their heat-resilient flow batteries in supporting energy access and grid stability. We will discuss the challenges of operating in high-temperature environments and how flow battery technology can help address these issues. By looking at real-world potential, this session aims to provide a balanced view of flow batteries and their role in delivering energy solutions in challenging conditions.

Discussion Points:

Understanding Redox Flow Batteries

Their Role in Energy Storage

Challenges and Opportunities of their Deployment in Hot Climates

The UK government has set a target of producing up to 10 gigawatts (GW) of low-carbon hydrogen by 2030, with at least half of this capacity coming from electrolytic hydrogen. The hydrogen ecosystem offers a pivotal opportunity to support a resilient and sustainable energy future. From enhancing energy storage to enabling grid stability, hydrogen technologies are poised to play a vital role in balancing the UK’s energy mix. However, achieving scalable hydrogen integration requires overcoming key challenges, such as improving production efficiencies and establishing cost-effective storage infrastructure. 

 As industry regulations and incentives evolve, stakeholders must navigate compliance while driving innovation in hydrogen applications. Securing robust investment will also be essential to advance hydrogen’s role across distributed and renewable energy networks. This session will explore the strategies, technologies, and partnerships needed to realise hydrogen’s full potential, fostering a collaborative approach to accelerate decarbonisation. Join us to examine the path forward for hydrogen in the energy ecosystem. 

Discussion Questions: 

• What technological advancements are most critical for scaling hydrogen production efficiently? 

• How can hydrogen storage solutions be optimised to support renewable energy integration? 

• What are the primary challenges in deploying hydrogen applications across distributed energy networks? 

Discussion Points:     

• What are the most promising emerging technologies enabling greater energy system flexibility, and how can they be scaled effectively? 

• How can policymakers and market structures support the integration of decentralised and demand-side flexibility solutions? 

• What role will digitalisation and AI play in optimising energy flexibility, and what challenges must be overcome? 

Lightweight solar can overcome some of the most common issues facing commercial solar installations. But most people don’t even know it exists! This talk aims to introduce, demystify and make the case for lightweight solar.

Discussion Points:

• Key design considerations, selecting exactly what is needed to maximise efficiency delivering heating and cooling via ASHP and GSHP’s.
• Why use natural very low GWP refrigerants.
• Real life examples & case studies.

Consider this:  

• China controls 70-90% of the battery supply chain 

• The United States has identified batteries as a national security priority, essential for both the military and America’s economic position  

• Regulations in the US and EU ban products made with forced labour from entering the market, yet 75% of battery supply chains are exposed to forced labour risks 

The battery industry is caught between a rock and a hard place, having to navigate geopolitical tensions and complex human rights issues embedded within material supply chains. Failure to do so could derail the transition itself, with supply chain risks potentially wiping out €200 million of a project’s value.  

This talk will break down this hidden cost behind the energy transition, providing insights on: 

1. The current state of battery supply chains and what this means in light of growing tension between China and the U.S.  

1. The intersection between human rights and geopolitics 

1. What industry can do to proactively manage these risks and stay ahead of stakeholder expectations 

Net-zero finance is emerging as a powerful tool to support business growth and sustainability initiatives in the energy sector. Increasingly, financial products like green bonds and transition finance are helping to funnel capital into decarbonisation and sustainable projects. However, businesses face several challenges when seeking funding, such as navigating complex regulations and demonstrating the financial viability of long-term sustainability investments.  

Asset finance, which secures capital by leveraging project assets, can help overcome these barriers by offering more flexible and accessible funding options. This session will explore the various funding opportunities available, including public and private investment, and discuss strategies to unlock these resources for a sustainable future​ 

Discussion Points:   

• How can Net Zero finance be leveraged to support business growth and sustainability initiatives across the energy sector? 

•   What are the key challenges businesses face when seeking funding for decarbonisation and sustainable projects, and how can asset finance address these challenges? 

• What funding is available and how can we unlock it? 

Discussion Points:  

• What emerging technologies show the most promise for advancing energy storage efficiency and scalability? 

• How can innovations in energy storage reduce costs and improve accessibility for consumers? 

• What role will energy storage play in achieving net-zero targets and decarbonising industries? 

This session invites participants to envision a reimagined UK energy system that addresses current challenges such as monopolisation and rising consumer costs  

Asif Rehmanwala, CEO of Ecotricity, will discuss necessary regulatory reforms and strategies to create a sustainable, equitable, and efficient energy future that prioritises both affordability and accountability for consumers.  

 Discussion Points:  

• What key regulatory changes would reshape the UK’s energy system to better serve consumers? 

• How would grassroots initiatives transform local energy production and consumption? 

• What principles should guide the balance between profitability and affordability in the energy sector? 

The future of battery reuse, particularly through second-life applications, plays a crucial role in creating a circular economy. As electric vehicle (EV) batteries reach the end of their first life, repurposing them for energy storage applications can extend their usefulness, reduce waste, and support grid stability. With their capacity to store energy, second-life batteries can be integrated into stationary storage systems, helping to mitigate grid constraints by balancing supply and demand. Additionally, these batteries could support EV charging infrastructure by providing cost-effective energy storage solutions that reduce peak demand. This session explores how we can maximise the potential of repurposed EV batteries, ensuring a sustainable and circular approach to battery lifecycle management. 

 Discussion Points:   

• How do we ensure we create a circular economy with repurposed EV Batteries?   

• How can they be used for energy storage applications?  

• Can second life Batteries support EV charging ? Can they help mitigate grid constraints? 

As the renewable energy landscape expands, the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) market is playing an essential role in aligning utility needs with renewable supply. Trends in the sector are increasingly shaping utility priorities and influencing supplier strategies to meet growing demand. Standardising information and terms within PPAs is crucial to reducing friction, enhancing transparency, and ensuring efficiency across renewable power agreements. 

This session will dive into the alignment of interests between suppliers and utilities, exploring strategies to streamline agreements, build resilience, and foster collaboration in the PPA market. Join us to examine the critical enablers of effective, scalable PPA solutions. 

Discussion Points:  

• What current trends are shaping utility interests in the PPA market?  

• How can we better align supplier needs with the demands of the PPA market?  

• • What role does standardization of information play in improving renewable power agreements? 

Effectively drawing on our recent experience of delivering Glasgow City Council’s Net Zero 2030 Route map, and our role as the Greater London Authority’s Zero Carbon Accelerator in supporting develop and deliver projects at scale to meet our ambitious targets. 

Innovation plays a crucial role in the deployment of the technologies, systems, processes and business models needed to deliver a net zero energy system. Running since March 2021, the Net zero innovation portfolio funds innovation across 10 areas, including energy storage and flexibility. As the energy system decarbonises, energy storage and flexible energy use by the consumer are needed to maximise the use of renewable energy, and provide energy where and when it is needed efficiently and cost-effectively. This session will look at the role innovation has played in delivering a net zero energy system, and the role it might play in the future.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is already handling ever growing renewable capacity using a fast-multiplying population of flexible resources at all scales.  Clean Power 2030 means NESO will soon be running the nation’s electricity system largely without carbon. Even before that NESO is developing the capability to run the system for short periods at zero carbon this year!  How have the last few years of energy revolution been for NESO’s control room, and how is NESO preparing for the next?  And what should distributed resources prepare for as electricity decarbonises?

As Director of System Operations at NESO, Craig Dyke oversees the real-time operation of the GB Electricity Transmission network and is responsible for the strategy of system operation.  Craig has form in power decarbonisation, taking a leading role at COP26.  NESO recently embarked on a major transformation in control room systems and tools – the Open Balancing Programme – with far-reaching consequences for distributed energy and Clean Power 2030.

Although superseded by subsequent political events, we must not forget that just over a year ago the UK Parliament passed the most extensive piece of energy legislation in well over a decade with significant impacts for various distributed energy sectors. As secondary legislation emerges from the Energy Act 2023, we must reflect on what has changed since its passage and how the new Government is adopting the duties that came as a result of its passage. 

 Discussion Points:  

• How successful has been the progress following the passing of Energy Bill in 2023 

• Do we see the new Government to have sufficient commitment to follow through fully with all parts of the Bill, 

• How do we see progress on the remaining elements of the Bill and it’s future impact on the sector. 

This session will present the Market Monitor, a LCP Delta/smartEn co-authored publication that provides an overview of the accessibility and participation of demand side flexibility across 30 European markets – covering ancillary services, distribution system flexibility, residential flexibility, capacity markets and wholesale spot markets.   

Discussion Points:  

• Evolution of EU Markets for DSF; 

• Provide an overview of the Regulatory Framework for DSF in the EU; 

• Development progress of flexibility from the System Operator side. 

The UK’s commitment to decarbonising by 2030 presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and households. Achieving this ambitious goal necessitates a fundamental shift towards greater energy flexibility. National Grid ESO’s modelling underscores the critical role of “demand flexibility,” projecting an increase from nearly 3GW to approximately 11-12GW by 2030. This growth is vital for balancing supply and demand in an energy landscape increasingly dominated by wind and solar power. 

 By optimising energy consumption and storage, demand flexibility enhances grid stability, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and contributes to significant emissions reductions. This session will explore the essential technologies for realising this vision, paving the way for a resilient and sustainable energy future in the UK. 

 Join us to discuss how we can collectively harness flexibility to seize the opportunities of tomorrow and create a greener, more sustainable energy landscape. 

 Discussion Points: 

• What are the main barriers to energy flexibility, and what new solutions are addressing them? 

• How should policy and regulation evolve to support energy flexibility with more renewables? 

• What strategies and partnerships can scale energy flexibility across sectors and regions

The aim of my talk is to discuss and promote the role of gas fired CHP (Combined Heat and Power) systems to provide electrical power and heat, where the utility grid is either insufficient, intermittent or unavailable, as a result of the energy transition. Furthermore, when operated on bio gas, with heat recovery, a CHP system represents a means to turn a waste product into useful energy with extremely high efficiency, and without recourse to fossil fuels, so fighting climate change. When operating on natural gas, a CHP system my offer a highly efficient and cost effective energy source, enabling large energy consuming projects to proceed, and representing a rapid payback on investment. And if fuelled from biogas, then there is the added benefit of not consuming fossil fuels to boot.

Welcome note from The Energy Storage Stage Sponsor, Joulen

AI and digital tools have the potential to reduce energy consumption by up to 10% across major sectors, enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency. In the UK, these data-driven strategies could save billions, driving energy resilience and sustainability. Engaging over 30 million households with digital assets, as well as commercial users, is essential and requires tailored approaches to boost adoption. With AI-powered insights into consumption patterns and secure data-sharing infrastructure, the energy sector can achieve smarter, targeted conservation efforts and advance toward a more sustainable future. 

 This session explores these key opportunities and challenges, offering strategies for implementing AI and digital innovations to transform energy management. 

 Discussion Points:  

• How does right-time data analysis enhance energy management and decision-making? 

• How do we ensure that more people engage with digital assets in the energy sector? How does this differentiate between commercial and domestic?  

• How can energy providers implement data-driven strategies to conserve energy? 

• How does data and AI enable a nuanced understanding of energy consumption patterns? 

• How can we enable a data sharing infrastructure? 

Advancements in energy storage are pivotal to realising a net-zero future, providing essential support for grid stability and reliability amid rising demand and a shift toward renewable energy sources. Energy storage technologies enable the integration of variable, decentralised generation, balancing supply and demand to maintain a resilient energy system.  

 However, optimising these systems requires robust regulatory frameworks and policy changes that support innovation and deployment at scale. This session explores the latest breakthroughs in energy storage, their role in shaping future energy systems, and the regulatory landscape needed to drive widespread adoption. 

Discussion Points:  

• How are advancements in energy storage technologies shaping the future of energy systems? what role do they play in meeting increasing demand and integrating renewable energy? 

• How can energy storage systems be optimised to ensure grid stability and reliability, particularly as energy generation becomes more variable and decentralised? 

• What regulatory and policy changes are needed ?

Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is seen as a key technology to ensure a reliable, low-carbon energy future, particularly as renewable energy sources like wind and solar become more prevalent. LDES can store excess energy over longer periods, addressing intermittency and providing stability when generation dips. Despite its potential, there are challenges in scaling LDES in the UK, including high costs and regulatory barriers. 

 International case studies, such as Australia’s 200MWh pumped hydro storage project and the UK’s growing interest in iron-air batteries, highlight successful applications. This session will explore LDES’s role in the energy mix, its scalability, and the regulatory environment needed to support its adoption   

Discussion Points:   

• Is there a need for Long Duration Energy Storage in the future energy mix? Why do some consumers hold apprehension towards it?    

• What are some of the most successful case studies for it’s application internationally?   

• How do we ensure Long duration energy storage is scalable in the UK? How do we ensure a favorable regulatory environment?   

Machine learning (ML) is revolutionising the energy sector by enhancing flexibility services and enabling more efficient management of renewable energy sources. By analysing network data in real-time, ML algorithms can predict demand fluctuations, optimise energy storage, and improve the accuracy of flexibility services needed to balance supply and demand. 

  This session explores how ML can scale flexibility markets by enabling more granular, data-driven decision-making, allowing energy providers to offer tailored solutions to consumers and network operators. It also delves into the challenges and opportunities of implementing ML-driven flexibility, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and sustainable energy system. 

 Discussion Points:   

• How Does Monitoring of Network Data Inform the Need for Flexibility Services? 

• How can this scale up the flexibility market  

• What role does machine learning have in the provision of flexibility

Welcome note from Energy Technology Live Stage Sponsor, Voltalis

Welcome note from The Distributed Energy Show sponsor, Mott MacDonald

Clean Power 2030 (CP30) is just five years away. Reaching this target requires a once in a generation shift in the pace of delivery for infrastructure, and a significant scaling up of flexibility. 

  The Government will publish a Low Carbon Flexibility Roadmap this year. Elexon is working with industry to support this shift. We play a key role in managing wholesale market arrangements, and 2025 is the start of a crucial delivery phase for strategic programmes to support CP30. We will explore how we achieve CP30, through flexibility, data and digitalisation. 

Discussion Points:  

• Raise awareness of the key reforms that Elexon is delivering and their interlink to clean power. 

• . Explain reforms we have introduced and continue to work to help flexibility providers access the balancing mechanism and wholesale market – which supports Clean Power 2030 and progress to a smarter/more flexible system. 

• Raise awareness of Elexon’s increasing role in provision of data, support for Government and Ofgem in policy delivery, and development of energy policy. 

The UK is upgrading its electricity network infrastructure to accommodate the transition to low carbon technology. Domestic homes will see more use of electricity for heating and transport (electric vehicles). It is imperative that the planning of electricity upgrades is done in a timely and cost-efficient way. In this discussion we will look at how energy usage patterns within the home are changing and why the connection of these low carbon technologies poses challenges for the electricity network. We will look at some of the ways in which the challenges can be overcome. This discussion is informed by ongoing projects in the electricity industry.

Discussion points:

• How are electricity usage patterns changing in domestic homes?
• What are the challenges posed by connecting low carbon technology?
• How can the challenges be overcome?

This talk explores the application of medium-voltage passive harmonic filters to address grid compliance challenges in a 50 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) connected to the UK distribution network. Post-commissioning measurements identified harmonic non-compliances between the 14th and 65th orders during various operational modes. A comprehensive study using DigSILENT modelling and site-validated measurements pinpointed root causes, such as inverter self-impedance and network resonance. The design of a 3.5 MVAr C-type harmonic filter, tuned for optimal performance and cost-efficiency, resolved compliance issues in accordance with Engineering Recommendation G5/5. This session will demonstrate the importance of accurate modelling, iterative design processes, and tailored solutions in achieving power quality standards for distributed energy systems.

Discussion Points: 

• Root cause analysis of harmonic distortions in BESS and their impact on grid compliance.
• Methodology for designing and validating a cost-effective passive harmonic filter.
• Real-world challenges and solutions in achieving compliance with G5/5 planning limits.

In order to establish a true circular battery economy, we must find a way to maximize each stage of battery life. Through inspiring a movement of batteries from 1st-life within the automotive industry to 2nd-life within the energy sector, we can see battery life extended, and profits gained. Circunomics is challenging the automotive industry, OEMs, 2nd-life applications, and recyclers to embrace a more circular approach through predictive analytics and a B2B marketplace – a comprehensive battery lifecycle management solution. This approach streamlines the process for industries to champion a more sustainable future.

Discussion points:

CO2 footprint minimized through extension of battery life.

How analytics can take the “what-if” out of the scenario and allow organizations to plan more effectively.

How extending the life of your battery supply can create additional revenue/savings

This keynote will spotlight how Future Biogas is leveraging the UK’s existing gas infrastructure to deliver sustainable biomethane, accelerating the decarbonization of dispersed industrial operations. Drawing parallels to the transformative impact of Power Purchase Agreements in the electricity market, the CEO will introduce the potential of Gas Purchase Agreements (GPAs) as a scalable solution for meeting renewable gas demand across pharmaceuticals, food & beverage manufacturing, heavy industries, and data centers.

Noventa Energy has acquired three heat-from-wastewater assets from Scottish Water Horizons in Glasgow, Stirling, and Campbeltown—marking a major milestone in the UK’s renewable energy landscape. The project focuses on optimizing wastewater heat conversion, integrating Noventa’s proprietary technology to improve energy output, and overcoming the complexities of upgrading existing infrastructure. Noventa’s approach enhances the capacity of these assets, boosting their ability to provide renewable heat and power to local communities while reducing emissions. These assets, the first of their kind in the UK, present a unique opportunity to accelerate the transition to clean energy.

Discussion points: 

• Highlight the technical challenges and solutions involved in repowering these innovative systems.
• Provide valuable insights into the application of innovative technologies in the energy sector and the role of partnerships in accelerating the transition to a low-carbon future.
• Detail how these projects contribute to Scotland’s broader energy transition objectives, addressing both the technical challenges and the scalability of wastewater heat technologies.

• Flexibility inherently relies on AI. Forecasting, optimisations and even LLMs are heavy lifters in the flexibility space
• We’re faced with unprecedented energy offtake due to the global growth of AI data centers. Flexibility is a key ingredient to make our AI greener.
• Key reasons to decide on the build or buy decision for flexibility.

The UK’s existing network of over 17,000 heat networks presents a significant opportunity to enhance urban energy sustainability. Expanding these systems is crucial for meeting decarbonisation targets and fostering energy resilience in towns and cities. However, achieving this ambition involves addressing key challenges, including the affordability of heat networks for consumers and the integration of innovative pricing models. 

As regulatory landscapes evolve, stakeholders must prepare for compliance, ensuring that developments align with future guidelines. Additionally, securing adequate funding will be essential for establishing and expanding these networks, creating a collaborative approach that leverages both public and private investment. This session will delve into the strategies and technologies needed to scale heat networks effectively, promoting a sustainable energy future. 

 Join us to explore how we can collectively advance urban heat solutions and capitalise on the opportunities that lie ahead. 

Discussion Points: 

• Can we truly develop town and city scale Heat Networks?  

• How do we make heat networks more affordable for consumers? 

• How can we prepare for regulation?  

• What about funding? 

A clean power system by 2030 will depend on unprecedented levels of flexibility and energy storage to integrate renewables and ensure reliability. This session will explore how much flexibility is needed, the role of technologies like batteries and long-duration storage, and the operational requirements for a secure, resilient grid. Drawing on insights from the Clean Power 2030 report, the discussion will also address the market, regulatory, and planning reforms essential to accelerate the deployment of flexible solutions at the pace required.

Discussion topics:

What does a clean power system need to look like by 2030, and how much energy storage and flexibility are required to achieve this?

How can energy storage technologies, including batteries and long-duration solutions, address variability and ensure system reliability in a clean power system?

What market, regulatory, and planning reforms are essential to unlock the potential of flexibility and accelerate its deployment at scale?

The energy sector often looks to solutions 5–10 years down the line, but with Voltalis, flexibility isn’t about the future—it’s about now. This session challenges the notion that impactful energy change takes decades, spotlighting how small-scale Demand Side Response (DSR) aggregated through Voltalis technology can make a significant difference today. 

  Forget delayed implementations and slow-moving frameworks—this is about delivering real impact now, from reducing costs for businesses and households to balancing the grid effectively. 

 Discussion Points:   

• How can small-scale DSR aggregation unlock immediate benefits for businesses and households and the energy grid? 

• What are the limitations of current long-term energy strategies, and how does Voltalis offer an actionable solution today? 

• How does Voltalis’ approach redefine flexibility, delivering measurable impacts without waiting for future innovations? 

The HyDUS project is an innovative initiative aimed at developing a pilot-scale hydrogen storage system using depleted uranium. By chemically binding hydrogen in a metal hydride form, this technology promises efficient, high-density storage. The project, backed by the UK government’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, involves collaboration among EDF, University of Bristol, UKAEA and Urenco. HyDUS has the potential to contribute to long-duration energy storage, by offering a novel hydrogen storage solution, playing a critical role in the future of the energy and hydrogen markets.

Discussion Points:

Innovative Hydrogen Storage Technology: The HyDUS project leverages depleted uranium and a novel bed design to create a metal hydride solution for efficient hydrogen storage – Innovation of beds design, properties of DU and preliminary results from testing

Long-Duration Energy Storage: The technology aims to address the challenge of long-duration energy storage – Integrated lab design at UKAEA, going from electricity to electricity

Future deployment: Plans for the next steps of the Hydus technology.

Investing in a diverse array of long-duration energy storage technologies is crucial for building a sustainable, reliable energy system. With global energy storage needs projected to grow 15-fold by 2030, options like flow batteries, pumped hydro, compressed air, and thermal storage each bring distinct advantages across different applications—from enhancing grid stability to supporting off-grid locations. This range of solutions allows for tailored approaches to energy challenges, enabling more efficient storage and balancing renewable output.  

 However, widespread adoption demands overcoming obstacles such as cost, efficiency, and infrastructure requirements. Selecting the right mix of storage technologies will be essential for securing a resilient, clean energy future. 

 Discussion Points:  

• Why is it important to invest in technologies beyond lithium batteries?  

• What alternatives are out there?  

• Where would each technology be the most useful? 

Join Gavin Stewart from SSEN in this session, which explores the concept of Flexibility within SSEN’s operational framework.

Attendees will learn about the importance of Flexibility for efficient network management, how to engage in SSEN’s Markets, and gain insights into decision-making processes regarding forecasting, scheduling, and dispatch. In addition, Gavin will discuss how SSEN are maintain a secure network by assessing the risk of Flexibility Shortfall.

Discussion Points:

What specific strategies can stakeholders implement to effectively participate in Flexibility Markets, and what challenges might they face?

How does SSEN prioritise cost, reliability, and carbon emissions in its decision-making processes for dispatching flexibility services?

In what ways can enhanced forecasting and scheduling improve the overall efficiency of energy networks in the context of increasing demand for flexibility?

How are SSEN managing the operational risks associated with operating the network more flexibly?

Many industrial sites struggle to find ways to decarbonise their heat affordably. Fortunately, newer technologies have now reached the point where they can deliver cost savings compared to fossil fuels.  

 Depending on the site’s requirements a combination of behind-the-meter solar, heat pumps, and Caldera’s Storage Boilers can deliver an optimal solution. This session will cover the pros and limitations of each technology, and how to use them to deliver both carbon and cost reductions. 

 Discussion points: 

• The challenge of industrial heat decarbonisation is the price of natural gas – how can electrification beat gas? 

• Heat pumps are an efficient way to decarbonise heat due to their COP – what are their limitations? 

• How does thermal storage stack up against other storage solutions such as batteries?  

Advancements in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are being driven by the digitalisation of energy infrastructure, enabling enhanced energy optimisation and more efficient asset management. Real-time data analytics and predictive maintenance are improving both performance and longevity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is further revolutionising the sector by enabling smarter decision-making, predictive algorithms for demand forecasting, and optimised charge/discharge cycles. These innovations allow for more precise load-shifting and peak shaving, reducing costs and enhancing energy efficiency.  

Integrating BESS with energy management systems optimises power production, balancing supply with demand, and driving down overall energy costs. This session explores how these technological breakthroughs are shaping the future of energy storage and management. 

Discussion Points:  

• How is digitalisation in Battery Energy Storage Systems transforming energy optimisation and asset management? 

• What role does Artificial Intelligence play in improving the efficiency and decision-making of next-generation Battery Energy Storage Systems? 

• How can energy management systems and Battery Energy Storage technology optimise power production through peak shaving and load-shifting to reduce energy costs? 

Join us for an insightful session on the critical role of sizing and specification in solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS) to achieve the UK’s net zero ambitions. Discover how precise system sizing ensures maximum efficiency, optimising both energy production and storage. This talk will delve into how solar and BESS can significantly cut carbon emissions by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, thereby supporting sustainability goals. Learn about the latest advancements in these technologies and their potential to enhance energy independence, providing resilient and reliable power solutions. Perfect for energy professionals and sustainability advocates, this session will provide valuable insights into harnessing these technologies for a greener future.

Global generation capacity for low carbon renewable energy such as wind and solar power has greatly increased in recent years, leading to an increasing need for energy storage to address curtailment of excess energy and  balance supply with demand.  Large-scale energy storage is possible via various technologies including pumped hydro schemes; underground cavern storage of natural gas, hydrogen and compressed air; shallow and deep geothermal storage; battery storage and innovative technologies such as storage of heat as molten salt or gravity storage utilising disused mineshafts.  

 Geological understanding is key to the success of many of these and the UK’s rich geological heritage includes thick beds of halite that can be developed for cavern storage, depleted hydrocarbon fields that have held large amounts of oil and gas over geological time and saline aquifers with pore space that could be utilised for energy storage. There are also novel uses of the subsurface such as lined tunnels for compressed air, abandoned mines for heat and cool storage and permeable rocks/caverns for underground pumped hydro projects. This presentation will provide an overview of recent BGS involvement in energy storage science and an introduction to the energy storage research capabilities of the recently completed UK Geoenergy Observatories in Cheshire and Glasgow. 

Discussion points: 

• What is the current focus for companies looking to invest in energy storage, in terms of global regions, power sources and storage technologies? 

• What are the opportunities for large- scale subsurface energy storage vs small scale local schemes and how might these interact? 

• What are the priority areas for UK investment in subsurface research, innovation and skills development?