The U.S. Department of Energy is asking a broad range of stakeholders for feedback on the department's eligibility requirements and implementation strategy of its long duration energy storage initiative.
In a May 12 news release, DOE announced a request for input about the $505 million initiative intended "to increase the availability of and deliver affordable, reliable clean electricity" with a goal of reaching President Joe Biden administration's goal of 100% clean electricity by 2035.
"The ability to move cheaper, cleaner electricity where and when it is needed most is the linchpin to a reliable energy grid and critical to meeting President Biden’s clean energy goals," U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said in the news release. "The Long Duration Energy Storage for Everyone, Everywhere initiative leverages the expertise of the department, national labs and industry to drive next-generation energy storage — making solar power available when the sun isn’t shining and keeping wind energy on tap when there’s no breeze."
DOE's long-duration energy storage initiative is being administered through its new Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, in charge for three energy storage demonstration programs - demonstration, validation and piloting - as described in the news release.
DOE's Long Duration Energy Storage for Everyone, Everywhere Initiative was created in last year's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The initiative's goal is to "advance energy storage systems toward widespread commercial deployment by lowering the costs and increasing the duration of energy storage resources," the new release said. Benefits of longer energy storage would be increased local power system control, more resilient communities and minimal power grid disruptions.
According to the release, DOE will accept comments until 5 p.m. EDT June 16.
