On September 22, 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans to invest $325 million in 15 projects aimed at accelerating the development of long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies. The funding for these projects will come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be implemented across 17 states and one tribal nation, according to a press release.
The DOE's investment in these projects aligns with its Long Duration Storage Shot goal of reducing the cost of LDES by 90% by 2030. It also supports the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to advance clean energy technologies, promote the adoption of renewable energy resources, and strengthen the country's energy security.
Applicants for the funding were required to submit a community benefits plan, outlining how their proposed projects would contribute to community and workforce engagement, support the American workforce, advance energy and environmental justice, foster diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and deliver benefits to disadvantaged communities.
The LDES Demonstrations Program, overseen by the DOE's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED), supports various technology types aimed at addressing technical and institutional challenges to enable the widespread deployment of long-duration energy storage systems across diverse geographical regions and climates.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the importance of reliable energy storage systems in protecting communities, particularly in the aftermath of extreme weather events or natural disasters. She stated, "Thanks to President Biden's Investing in America agenda, DOE is supporting game-changing energy storage projects across the nation—laying the foundation for the innovative solutions we need to ensure stronger, more resilient communities."
Among the selected projects are Communities Accessing Resilient Energy Storage (CARES) led by Rejoule, Second Life Smart Systems (SMART) led by Smartville Inc., Multiday Iron Air Demonstration (MIND) led by Xcel Energy in partnership with Form Energy, and Children's Hospital Resilient Grid with Energy Storage (CHARGES) led by the State of California through the California Energy Commission.
The DOE's investment in these long-duration energy storage projects aims to enhance grid resilience and safeguard American communities by providing dependable sources of electricity during critical times. It also contributes to the broader goal of transitioning to a clean energy future and building a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
