Advanced batteries and other innovations
The global push for decarbonization and energy independence is driving unprecedented innovation in energy storage and alternative fuels. While lithium-ion batteries have dominated the portable electronics and electric vehicle (EV) markets, and hydrogen is gaining significant traction as a clean fuel, a diverse array of advanced technologies are emerging to address the multifaceted challenges of energy transition.
While lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries continue to improve in terms of energy density, charging speed, and cost-efficiency, significant research and development are focused on overcoming their limitations, such as reliance on critical materials (lithium, cobalt, nickel), safety concerns (flammability of liquid electrolytes), and degradation over time.
Emerging battery technologies
Solid-State Batteries is one of the most anticipated “next-generation” technologies. By replacing the flammable liquid electrolyte with a solid material, solid-state batteries promise higher energy density (potentially doubling current Li-ion capacities), enhanced safety, faster charging, and longer lifespans. Companies like Toyota, Samsung SDI, and etc. are actively developing prototypes, with commercial deployment for premium EVs potentially reaching “semi-solid” versions by 2027-2028.
With sodium being far more abundant and less expensive than lithium, sodium-ion batteries offer a compelling alternative for cost-sensitive applications and stationary energy storage. While currently offering lower energy density than Li-ion, rapid advancements are being made in their performance, with companies like CATL and HiNa launching second-generation sodium-ion batteries with improved energy density and charging capabilities. They also show promise in cold climates.
Lithium-Sulfur Batterie have the theoretical potential for significantly higher energy density per weight compared to Li-ion, making them attractive for applications like urban air mobility (eVTOLs) and drones. Challenges like the “shuttle effect” (degradation of sulfur-based cathodes) are being addressed through innovative material science.
Other promising chemistries
Incorporating nanomaterials like tungsten and carbon nanotubes into battery anodes can create larger surface areas for ion attachment, leading to faster charging and increased energy storage which is known as nano-structured batteries.
Zinc-Manganese Oxide Batteries are considered for large-scale grid energy storage due to potential for increased energy density without significant cost increases.
Flow Batteries store energy in external tanks of liquid electrolytes, allowing for independent scaling of power and energy capacity. They are well-suited for long-duration grid-scale storage, balancing intermittent renewable sources, and offering long cycle life and safety.
Quantum batteries which are still in the proof-of-concept stage, these theoretical devices leverage quantum mechanics to achieve extraordinary charging speeds and high energy transfer efficiencies.
Researchers are now exploring hybrid such as quasi-solid-state and gel electrolytes approaches, combining solid and liquid elements to enhance safety and longevity while bridging the gap to full solid-state technology.
Versatile energy carrier
Hydrogen is emerging as a critical component of a decarbonized energy system, particularly for hard-to-electrify sectors like heavy industry, long-haul transportation, and seasonal energy storage. Innovations are rapidly advancing across its entire value chain. The focus is heavily on producing “green hydrogen” through electrolysis powered by renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro).
Improved electrolyzer technologies such as Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers offer higher efficiency and faster response times, making them ideal for integration with intermittent renewables. Solid Oxide Electrolyzers (SOEs) are gaining traction for even higher efficiencies when operating at high temperatures, often integrated with nuclear power or industrial waste heat. Direct integration of solar panels with electrolyzers are improving energy conversion efficiency and lowering production costs as well.
Long-standing challenges in hydrogen storage and transport are being addressed by utilizing metal hydrides or chemical compounds to absorb hydrogen offers safer and more energy-dense storage solutions under normal temperature and pressure conditions. Companies are developing systems that chemically bind hydrogen to a reusable liquid carrier (like benzyl toluene), allowing it to be stored and transported using existing liquid fuel infrastructure, reducing cost and risk. Advancements in lightweight, carbon-fiber tanks for high-pressure storage are extending the range of hydrogen-powered vehicles and reducing refueling times. Cryogenic storage of liquid hydrogen is also being refined for large-scale applications. Developing dedicated pipelines and utilizing ammonia (which can be converted back to hydrogen) as a carrier are key for large-scale, long-distance hydrogen transport.
Different hydrogen applications
Hydrogen fuel cells offer zero-emission power for heavy-duty trucks, buses, trains, and even aircraft, providing longer ranges and faster refueling than battery-electric counterparts. Hydrogen can store excess renewable energy and be converted back to electricity during peak demand using reversible fuel cells or turbines, providing grid stability and reducing reliance on fossil fuel backups. Low-emissions hydrogen is increasingly being adopted in industries like ammonia and methanol production, steel and metals, and refining, replacing fossil-based hydrogen sources.
Other cutting-edge energy innovations beyond hydrogen exist. With a diverse range of energy technologies being developed and scaled as well.