Department Of Energy Continues To Support Energy Innovation

As part of the Fiscal Year 2012 budget, the Department Of Energy will receive a small increase (2.5%) in funding to support energy innovation investment.  As part of its plan, the DOE will create a “Batteries and Energy Storage Hub”, which will receive an initial appropriation of $24,020,000., plus one-time funding of $10,000,000. for start-up costs, excluding new construction.

Citing the problems with today’s energy storage approach – limited energy and power capacities, low rates of charge and discharge, calendar and cycle life limitations, low abuse tolerance, high cost and temperature sensitivity affecting performance – the DOE stated that the investment will help to ensure the successful integration of renewable, intermittent power sources onto the grid as well as address issues of power storage to enhance grid reliability.  It is also expected to bolster consumer acceptance of hybrid and all-electric vehicles, by leading to battery technologies that are safer, more effective and less expensive than what is currently being used.

The Hub will support research toward the development of new technologies and materials to address such issues as battery longevity and environmental impact in conjunction with existing research and development activities already being funded by the Department Of Energy.

To learn more, visit the Department Of Energy website at energy.gov.