Aqueous Sulfur Systems for Long-Duration Grid Storage

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Program:
DAYS
Award:
$2,929,296
Location:
Somerville, Massachusetts
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
07/31/2019 - 08/31/2023

Technology Description:

Form Energy will develop a long-duration energy storage system that takes advantage of the low cost and high abundance of sulfur in a water-based solution. Previous MIT research demonstrated that aqueous sulfur flow batteries represent the lowest chemical cost among rechargeable batteries. However, these systems have relatively low efficiency. Conversely, numerous rechargeable battery chemistries with higher efficiency have high chemical costs. The solution requires low chemical cost, high efficiency, and streamlined architecture. The team will pursue several competing strategies and ultimately select a single approach to develop a prototype system. Focus areas include developing anode and cathode formulations, membranes, and physical system designs.

Potential Impact:

If successful, DAYS projects will provide new forms of long-duration stationary electricity storage systems that enhance grid resiliency, provide low-cost energy capacity, support grid infrastructure, and enable a greater share of intermittent renewable resources in the generation mix.

Security:

Long-duration storage can help prevent blackouts and smooth overall grid operation, improving resilience and enhancing grid security.

Environment:

New, extended storage options could enable greater integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, greatly reducing emissions from the power sector.

Economy:

Energy storage technologies could help improve grid efficiency and promote the growth of domestic renewable energy sources.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Halle Cheeseman
Project Contact:
Dr. William Woodford
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
wwoodford@formenergy.com

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Release Date:
05/01/2018