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Transforming our future

Decarbonisation of electricity supply and land transport to meet net zero in the UK

This conference brought together national and international leaders in energy storage systems and was attended by participants from across academia, industry and government.

  • 12 May 2022, 08:30 - 18:30
  • Free
Add to Calendar 05/12/22 08:30 AM 05/12/22 06:30 PM United Kingdom (GMT) Decarbonisation of electricity supply and land transport to meet net zero in the UK <p>This conference brought together national and international leaders in energy storage systems and was attended by participants from across academia, industry and government.</p> The Royal Society, London, SW1Y 5AG
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This conference brought together national and international leaders in energy storage systems and was attended by participants from across academia, industry and government.

Overview

This conference brought together national and international leaders in energy storage systems and was attended by participants from across academia, industry and government.

Background

A previous event  Energy storage – automotive and grids at the Royal Society explored how high performance energy storage systems will be essential in developing a sustainable future economy and their potential for next generation technologies to change the way we live. Over the last four years however we have seen that while the challenge to meet net zero has remained the same, the potential of novel technology and use of hydrogen, ammonia, and synthetic fuels to meet the energy storage challenge has increased with a parallel increase in investment. 

This conference explored key issues associated with implementing decarbonisation technologies for the national electricity supply and land transport to meet net zero in the UK. Topics discussed included the development of electrification through batteries and other alternatives, and the coordination of an increasingly diverse and dispersed electricity system.

Pylons on misty hillside

Organisers

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Peter Bruce is Wolfson Professor of Materials at the University of Oxford. His research interests embrace materials chemistry and electrochemistry, with a particular emphasis on energy storage. Recent efforts have focused on the synthesis and understanding of new cathode materials for lithium and sodium ion batteries, understanding processes in all solid-state batteries and the challenges of the lithium-air battery. His pioneering work has provided many advances.

Peter has received numerous awards, including the Tilden Prize of the RSC, the Carl Wagner Award of the ECS, the Liversidge Award of the RSC and the Hughes Medal of the RS. He has also been recognised as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics each year since 2015.

Peter is a founder and Chief Scientist of the Faraday Institution, the UK centre for research on electrochemical energy storage. Peter took up the position of Physical Secretary and Vice President of the Royal Society in 2018.

Dame Sue Ion GBE FREng FRS

Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee

Dame Sue Ion GBE FREng FRS

Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee

Dame Sue Ion GBE FRS FREng is Hon President of the National Skills Academy for Nuclear. She was previously Chairman of the UK Nuclear Innovation Research Advisory Board (NIRAB). She represents the UK on a number of international review and oversight committees for the nuclear sector including the Euratom Science and Technology Committee which she chaired until late 2018. She was the only non-US member of the US Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy Advisory Committee on which she has served from 2005-2020.She currently serves as a member of the Office of Nuclear Regulation Independent Advisory Panel.

Sue spent 27 years with British Nuclear Fuels Ltd (BNFL) rising to the position of Chief Technology Officer in 1992, a post she held until 2006 when she assumed a number of mainly voluntary roles in Science and Engineering, including membership of the UK Council for Science and Technology and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). She was Vice President of the Royal Academy of Engineering 2002-2008 and chaired its MacRobert Committee 2013-2019. Sue was Deputy Chair of the Board of the University of Manchester until September 2018 and currently serves on the Board of the University of Central Lancashire.

Her core expertise is in materials science and engineering associated with the nuclear sector. Sue is a member of the Chief Scientific Advisor for Wales’s Science and Innovation Advisory Council. She has been a Visiting Professor in the Department of Materials at Imperial College since 2006, holds an Honorary Professorship at the University of Manchester and is now Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee.

Ian Ellerington, Faraday Institution

Ian Ellerington, Faraday Institution

Ian heads up technology transfer for the Faraday Institution and builds bridges between research outcomes and industry needs. He joined the Faraday Institution after six years in central government where he worked on designing and implementing innovation programmes in the energy sector. He was responsible for the government’s energy innovation programme in the Department of Energy and Climate Change and continued in the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy as Head of Disruptive Energy Technologies and Green Finance Innovation.

Ian’s background is in engineering with more that 20 years of experience, as a research project manager, developing new products and in operational management in the public and private sectors.

Schedule

08:30-09:10
Registration
09:10-09:20
Opening Remarks

Chair

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Peter Bruce is Wolfson Professor of Materials at the University of Oxford. His research interests embrace materials chemistry and electrochemistry, with a particular emphasis on energy storage. Recent efforts have focused on the synthesis and understanding of new cathode materials for lithium and sodium ion batteries, understanding processes in all solid-state batteries and the challenges of the lithium-air battery. His pioneering work has provided many advances.

Peter has received numerous awards, including the Tilden Prize of the RSC, the Carl Wagner Award of the ECS, the Liversidge Award of the RSC and the Hughes Medal of the RS. He has also been recognised as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics each year since 2015.

Peter is a founder and Chief Scientist of the Faraday Institution, the UK centre for research on electrochemical energy storage. Peter took up the position of Physical Secretary and Vice President of the Royal Society in 2018.

09:20-11:00
Session 1: The challenge to completely decarbonise and expand the electricity system
5 talks

Chair

Dame Sue Ion GBE FREng FRS

Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee

Dame Sue Ion GBE FREng FRS

Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee

Dame Sue Ion GBE FRS FREng is Hon President of the National Skills Academy for Nuclear. She was previously Chairman of the UK Nuclear Innovation Research Advisory Board (NIRAB). She represents the UK on a number of international review and oversight committees for the nuclear sector including the Euratom Science and Technology Committee which she chaired until late 2018. She was the only non-US member of the US Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy Advisory Committee on which she has served from 2005-2020.She currently serves as a member of the Office of Nuclear Regulation Independent Advisory Panel.

Sue spent 27 years with British Nuclear Fuels Ltd (BNFL) rising to the position of Chief Technology Officer in 1992, a post she held until 2006 when she assumed a number of mainly voluntary roles in Science and Engineering, including membership of the UK Council for Science and Technology and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). She was Vice President of the Royal Academy of Engineering 2002-2008 and chaired its MacRobert Committee 2013-2019. Sue was Deputy Chair of the Board of the University of Manchester until September 2018 and currently serves on the Board of the University of Central Lancashire.

Her core expertise is in materials science and engineering associated with the nuclear sector. Sue is a member of the Chief Scientific Advisor for Wales’s Science and Innovation Advisory Council. She has been a Visiting Professor in the Department of Materials at Imperial College since 2006, holds an Honorary Professorship at the University of Manchester and is now Chair of the Royal Society Science, Industry and Translation Committee.

09:20-09:35
The growth potential of renewable energy supply, managing variability and barriers to deployment

Abstract

Renewable electricity growth is accelerating faster than ever worldwide. Technology innovation has enabled rapid cost reductions, far surpassing expectations, and wind and solar are now much cheaper sources of generation than fossil fuels. The UK has led the world in decarbonising its power system, and can further accelerate the growth of renewables by addressing key barriers, such as permitting and regulatory processes, improving grid infrastructure, and ensuring a coordinated approach. With record-high international gas prices, a rapid expansion of UK renewable capacity will help to ensure energy security and enable us to reach Net Zero cheaper, and faster. 

Speakers

Juliette Sanders, Director, Strategic Communications Energy-UK

Juliette Sanders, Director, Strategic Communications Energy-UK

Juliette Sanders is Director of Strategic Communications at Energy UK, the UK’s only trade body with members spanning the whole energy system. Representing over 100 members, she leads on the organisation’s external affairs, and is also the lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Juliette holds a Masters in Engineering from Cambridge University, and has held a variety of roles across low carbon generation at Equinor, Orsted and EDF Energy, winning awards for her work. Juliette is passionate about inspiring and developing others in the energy sector and is an honorary lecturer at the University of East Anglia. 

09:35-09:50
Non-intermittent decarbonised electricity generation: nuclear and geothermal challenges and technology and knowledge gaps

Abstract

In the development of the future energy system, balancing base load generation with peaking capacity is key. Large-scale nuclear energy generation is well-suited to provision of base load, which maximises the benefits of the large capital investment. Similarly, thermal sources such as geothermal provide constant sources of thermal energy. Balancing base load and peaking plant will be increasingly challenging with a greater level of renewable generation on the grid. The role of energy storage will be a key factor in getting the most out of nuclear and geothermal. These issues will be explored.

Speakers

Professor Martin Freer, Director, Energy Research Accelerator

Professor Martin Freer, Director, Energy Research Accelerator

Professor Martin Freer a nuclear physicist, and Director of the Birmingham Energy Institute (BEI) at the University of Birmingham. He is also Director of the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA), which comprises eight internationally-renowned Midlands universities, together with the British Geological Survey. 

Martin has overseen the development of the BEI, helped establish Energy Capital, and has led the development of the Birmingham Energy Innovation Hub and co-development of Tyseley Energy Park.

His main research area is the study of the structure of light nuclei, using nuclear reactions. He received the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Prize in 2004 and the Rutherford Medal in 2010.

09:50-10:10
The future of decarbonised electricity in the UK: the national perspective

Abstract

National Grid ESO sits at the heart of operating the GB Electricity Transmission System. As renewables have grown over the past decade the ESO has adapted to ensure a safe and reliable network, and is on target to operate carbon-free for periods in 2025. The talk sets out some of those challenges already solved and the next challenges that must be overcome in order to operate a carbon free network in 2035.

Speakers

Matthew Magill, Zero Carbon Operations Senior Manager, National Grid ESO

Matthew Magill, Zero Carbon Operations Senior Manager, National Grid ESO

Matthew Magill has worked at the National Grid for nearly 20 years and has an in-depth knowledge of the power system and its operation. He joined the National Grid upon graduation from the University of Bristol, and now oversees the Electricity System Operator (ESO) strategy for zero carbon operations. Most recently Matthew has led the ESO’s programme of works around ensuring that zero carbon operation is possible for periods by 2025. He also led the ESO’s COVID-19 response, which was a glimpse into the energy mix of the future. 

10:10-10:30
The future of decarbonised electricity in the UK: a perspective from the energy markets

Abstract

The talk will offer a summary of the likely steps needed to decarbonise the GB power system by 2035. These include deployment of different forms of low-carbon generation capacity, together with the wider system and market changes that will likely be needed to enable these developments and to integrate low-carbon generation and low-carbon transport into a secure system.

Speakers

Dan Monzani, Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research

Dan Monzani, Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research

Dan recently joined Aurora as our Managing Director for the UK and Ireland. Previously, Dan was Director for Energy Security, Networks & Markets in the UK government, where he has 18 years’ experience, holding many roles in BEIS and the Cabinet Office. His most recent position involved policy and analytical advice to government ministers on energy systems & market design.

Dan has an MBA from London Business School and degrees from Magdalen College Oxford and University College London. 

10:30-11:00
Panel Discussion and Q&A

Speakers

Matthew Magill, Zero Carbon Operations Senior Manager, National Grid ESO

Matthew Magill, Zero Carbon Operations Senior Manager, National Grid ESO

Matthew Magill has worked at the National Grid for nearly 20 years and has an in-depth knowledge of the power system and its operation. He joined the National Grid upon graduation from the University of Bristol, and now oversees the Electricity System Operator (ESO) strategy for zero carbon operations. Most recently Matthew has led the ESO’s programme of works around ensuring that zero carbon operation is possible for periods by 2025. He also led the ESO’s COVID-19 response, which was a glimpse into the energy mix of the future. 

Dan Monzani, Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research

Dan Monzani, Managing Director, Aurora Energy Research

Dan recently joined Aurora as our Managing Director for the UK and Ireland. Previously, Dan was Director for Energy Security, Networks & Markets in the UK government, where he has 18 years’ experience, holding many roles in BEIS and the Cabinet Office. His most recent position involved policy and analytical advice to government ministers on energy systems & market design.

Dan has an MBA from London Business School and degrees from Magdalen College Oxford and University College London. 

Professor Martin Freer, Director, Energy Research Accelerator

Professor Martin Freer, Director, Energy Research Accelerator

Professor Martin Freer a nuclear physicist, and Director of the Birmingham Energy Institute (BEI) at the University of Birmingham. He is also Director of the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA), which comprises eight internationally-renowned Midlands universities, together with the British Geological Survey. 

Martin has overseen the development of the BEI, helped establish Energy Capital, and has led the development of the Birmingham Energy Innovation Hub and co-development of Tyseley Energy Park.

His main research area is the study of the structure of light nuclei, using nuclear reactions. He received the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Prize in 2004 and the Rutherford Medal in 2010.

Juliette Sanders, Director, Strategic Communications Energy-UK

Juliette Sanders, Director, Strategic Communications Energy-UK

Juliette Sanders is Director of Strategic Communications at Energy UK, the UK’s only trade body with members spanning the whole energy system. Representing over 100 members, she leads on the organisation’s external affairs, and is also the lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Juliette holds a Masters in Engineering from Cambridge University, and has held a variety of roles across low carbon generation at Equinor, Orsted and EDF Energy, winning awards for her work. Juliette is passionate about inspiring and developing others in the energy sector and is an honorary lecturer at the University of East Anglia. 

11:00-11:30
Break
11:30-13:00
Session 2: The challenge to store energy
4 talks
11:30-11:50
Advancing battery technology to support the next generation of energy storage

Abstract

Britishvolt aims to establish the first UK battery cell ‘giga-plant’, implementing a sustainable, advanced technology and manufacturing strategy to deliver on the exacting needs of our customers and assist in the acceleration of sustainable transport and the renewable energy sector.  Although road going automotive is the primary market target for Britishvolt, the static energy storage system sector is also of key interest.  This talk will present an overview of battery technology, the challenges of large volume production to support those markets and the research and development pathways being pursued to support a next generation of automotive and energy-storage battery technology as enablers of a pathway to decarbonisation. 

Speakers

Dr Allan Paterson, Chief Technical Officer, Britishvolt

Dr Allan Paterson, Chief Technical Officer, Britishvolt

Dr Allan Paterson is currently Chief Technology Officer for Britishvolt, responsible for overall Li-ion cell product, research and technology development.   Prior to moving to Britishvolt, Allan was the Faraday Institution’s Head of Programme Management.  Allan previously held the position of Chief Electrochemist at both Cummins and Johnson Matthey Battery Systems, where he led a team of electrochemists, managed a range of collaborative R&D projects including investigating new battery technologies and their application in next generation low carbon EV, PHEV and HEV applications.  Allan has over 20 years’ experience in the field of lithium-ion batteries, and over ten years in automotive batteries, including developing novel high energy density materials and next-generation battery technologies. Allan holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of St Andrews on advanced cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.

11:50-12:10
Chemical storage solutions and challenges

Abstract

Chemical storage, in the form of fossil fuels, dominated electricity system storage over the last century. As the share of renewables increases, batteries are likely to provide short-term storage, but there will also be a need for longer-term storage on timescales of weeks to seasons. Chemical storage can provide this in the form of hydrogen or ammonia, which are zero-carbon, have low capital costs per unit of stored energy, and have negligible storage losses. The talk will examine the characteristics of hydrogen storage technologies and will explore the potential and scale of hydrogen storage to provide carbon-free peak power generation at times of low renewable supply. It will conclude by considering whether the role of hydrogen storage might reduce if opportunities to integrate hydrogen into the wider energy system are realised.

Speakers

Professor Paul Dodds. Professor of Energy Systems, UCL

Professor Paul Dodds. Professor of Energy Systems, UCL

Paul Dodds specialises in energy systems modelling and leads the development of the UK TIMES energy system optimisation model, which is used by the UK Government to identify net zero transition pathways for the UK. Over the last decade he has carried out much research on both the future uses of hydrogen in the energy system and the importance of energy storage for renewables integration. He led the EPSRC RESTLESS and SPOT-RES energy storage projects and will discuss their insights in this talk.

12:10-12:30
The benefits and challenges of electrical energy storage by means of mechanical systems

Abstract

The available mechanical methods for storing energy in electrically transmissible form are described along with their place in the energy storage landscape. Issues including response time, duration, scale, sustainability, use of resources and lifetime cost are addressed, allowing technologies to be compared to battery based systems where applicable. The question of under which circumstances mechanical systems could provide a better solution is asked. This is answered and illustrated by examples relating to both electricity supply and transport. Finally, some research questions are raised, the answers to which could help inform our understanding of the provision of electrical energy storage.

Note: Given the title of the conference “Decarbonisation of electricity supply and land transport to meet net zero in the UK”, the presentation covers mechanical means of storing electrical energy as opposed to widening to also include heat storage. This will bring more focus to what is already a wide subject. 

Speakers

Professor Keith Pullen, Professor of Energy Systems, City University of London

Professor Keith Pullen, Professor of Energy Systems, City University of London

Keith Pullen began his career with Rolls-Royce who sponsored his first and doctoral degrees at Imperial College London. After two years in the oil and gas sector, he took up academic posts at Imperial and his research in microturbine generators formed a key part of what is now Turbo Power Systems. Developing research in hybrid vehicles and energy storage, he later moved to City University of London, receiving a Chair in 2010. Following consultancies for two F1 teams and co-founding three spin outs, he received a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellowship. This facilitated the setting up of Levistor Ltd, focussed on low-cost flywheel energy storage. He now divides his time between CTO responsibilities for Levistor, consultancy in energy technologies and retains links with City University of London as Visiting Professor.

12:30-13:00
Panel Discussion and Q&A

Speakers

Professor Paul Dodds. Professor of Energy Systems, UCL

Professor Paul Dodds. Professor of Energy Systems, UCL

Paul Dodds specialises in energy systems modelling and leads the development of the UK TIMES energy system optimisation model, which is used by the UK Government to identify net zero transition pathways for the UK. Over the last decade he has carried out much research on both the future uses of hydrogen in the energy system and the importance of energy storage for renewables integration. He led the EPSRC RESTLESS and SPOT-RES energy storage projects and will discuss their insights in this talk.

Professor Keith Pullen, Professor of Energy Systems, City University of London

Professor Keith Pullen, Professor of Energy Systems, City University of London

Keith Pullen began his career with Rolls-Royce who sponsored his first and doctoral degrees at Imperial College London. After two years in the oil and gas sector, he took up academic posts at Imperial and his research in microturbine generators formed a key part of what is now Turbo Power Systems. Developing research in hybrid vehicles and energy storage, he later moved to City University of London, receiving a Chair in 2010. Following consultancies for two F1 teams and co-founding three spin outs, he received a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellowship. This facilitated the setting up of Levistor Ltd, focussed on low-cost flywheel energy storage. He now divides his time between CTO responsibilities for Levistor, consultancy in energy technologies and retains links with City University of London as Visiting Professor.

Dr Allan Paterson, Chief Technical Officer, Britishvolt

Dr Allan Paterson, Chief Technical Officer, Britishvolt

Dr Allan Paterson is currently Chief Technology Officer for Britishvolt, responsible for overall Li-ion cell product, research and technology development.   Prior to moving to Britishvolt, Allan was the Faraday Institution’s Head of Programme Management.  Allan previously held the position of Chief Electrochemist at both Cummins and Johnson Matthey Battery Systems, where he led a team of electrochemists, managed a range of collaborative R&D projects including investigating new battery technologies and their application in next generation low carbon EV, PHEV and HEV applications.  Allan has over 20 years’ experience in the field of lithium-ion batteries, and over ten years in automotive batteries, including developing novel high energy density materials and next-generation battery technologies. Allan holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of St Andrews on advanced cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.

13:00-14:00
Lunch
14:00-15:30
Session 3: The challenge of land transport electrification and decarbonisation
4 talks
14:00-14:20
Using batteries: status, challenges and new technology requirements

Abstract

As the world transitions from a carbon-dependent to a renewable-energy-based society, decarbonization of power sectors has quickly become a critical step in meeting emission reduction targets. This is becoming increasingly important in order to meet the rising demand for electric power in the transportation industry. This presentation will outline the strategies that OEMs are currently employing in order to meet consumer demand while also offering a typical product with little to no environmental impact.

Speakers

Dr Valentina Gentili, Senior Tech Specialist, Jaguar Land Rover

Dr Valentina Gentili, Senior Tech Specialist, Jaguar Land Rover

After earning a BSc and an MSc in industrial chemistry with a focus on Advanced Polymer Electrolytes at Università Sapienza, Valentina Gentili pursued a PhD in nanomaterials for use as anodes in lithium-ion batteries with Professor Peter Bruce at St Andrews University. Following that she worked as an Electrochemist and as a Principal Scientist at Johnson Matthey on the characterisation and testing of commercial cells and next generation Li-ion technologies. She joined Jaguar Land Rover in 2017 as a Technical Specialist in Advanced Battery Engineering, where she led a multidisciplinary team of subject matter experts in Battery Technology. In 2018 she contributed to the launch of the I-Pace, Jaguar’s first electric SUV. In 2019 she earned an MBS from Luiss Business School. Today, as the Senior Technical Specialist, Valentina is the Head of Cell Battery Technology and Innovation at Jaguar Land Rover, and a key contributor to the electrification strategy of Britain’s largest carmaker.

14:20-14:40
The status and potential of ammonia for energy storage and transport: future steps and challenges

Abstract

The energy equivalent of the current annual global production, storage and transportation of ammonia dwarfs by factors of thousands the numbers associated with hydrogen. 

While the future of passenger vehicles, at least in high-income countries, focuses on lithium battery technologies, the maritime industry, with its one hundred thousand horsepower deep-ocean container ships, sees ammonia as its leading future green fuel. 

With batteries favoured for short-range passenger vehicles and ammonia seriously being considered for the most challenging of transport technologies, the opportunities for hybrid high-power battery/ammonia options deserve significant consideration. Similarly, for energy storage, short-term (seconds to hours) requirements can be met by batteries while long-term and interseasonal challenges can be addressed in a dispatchable, flexible and highly distributable manner by ammonia-based solutions. 

This talk focuses on extrapolating solutions from the present status of zero-carbon containing fuels and, in particular, the challenges – both real and perceived – of ammonia-focussed energy storage and transport.

Speakers

Professor Bill David FRS, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford and ISIS, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

Professor Bill David FRS, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford and ISIS, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

Bill David is Professor of Energy Materials Chemistry in the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory at the University of Oxford and STFC Senior Fellow at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Physics and the Royal Society of Chemistry. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society and is a member of the Society’s Net-Zero programme. Bill’s research interests are based around sustainable and scalable zero-carbon chemical and electrochemical energy storage and power provision, focussing on high-power sodium-ion batteries and exploring the options for developing ammonia as a green fuel.

14:40-15:00
Using synthetic fuels and hybrid solutions: status, challenges and new technology – Does the scale up required still decarbonise?

Abstract

This talk will examine the potential for synthetic fuels to decarbonise transport, considering advantages and disadvantages of their use across sectors from marine to heavy duty trucks. The presentation will review the latest technology developments and consider scale up required to deliver decarbonisation needed to meet climate targets.

Speakers

Dr Penny Atkins, Principal Research Fellow, University of Brighton

Dr Penny Atkins, Principal Research Fellow, University of Brighton

Dr Penny Atkins is Deputy Director of the Advanced Engineering Centre at the University of Brighton. She has a keen interest in future sustainable fuels and societal needs in the transport sector, coupled with practical research into clean, efficient propulsion. Prior to her role at the University of Brighton, she was Head of Technology Strategy at Ricardo UK, delivering insight across transport sectors for clients in industry and government. She is Director of the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) Thermal Efficiency spoke and supports the DFT Future Fuels for Flight and Freight and Green Skies, Green Skies competition boards.

15:00-15:30
Variable renewable energy supply and rising demand for the grid and for transport- balancing the euphoria and the naysayers

Abstract

Decarbonisation of society in the next decade will be dominated by electrification of heat and transport, and decarbonisation of electricity grids. There remain very significant challenges to electrification of the demand side, and to decarbonisation of the supply side at the scale and pace required to combat climate change.  With the recent dramatic decline in the costs of wind and solar photovoltaics the decarbonisation of the supply side is and will continue to be dominated by these variable renewables (VREs). To meet the ambitious decarbonisation goals the penetration levels of VREs will need to increase for the majority of grids. The popular press and some academic literature have claimed that 100 % VRE penetration would be relatively easily achievable. A counter-narrative maintains that it would be impossible. Neither narrative is constructive. It is technically possible to achieve 100 % VRE penetration, but it would be far from easy, and with our current technology and societal expectations around electricity it would be very expensive. It would be more accurate to argue that “it is possible to achieve 100% VRE grids, but there are many challenges that still need to be solved”. This statement will form the focus of the presentation. 

Speakers

Professor Mark O'Malley, Chief Scientist, Energy Systems Integration Group

Professor Mark O'Malley, Chief Scientist, Energy Systems Integration Group

Professor Mark O’Malley is currently on secondment as the Chief Scientist of the Energy Systems Integration Group (ESIG). ESIG is a global organization that brings together industry, regulators, policy makers and the research community to further our collective knowledge and understanding in Energy Systems Integration.  He is the Professor of Electrical Engineering at University College Dublin. 

In 2020 Mark completed a three-year assignment as Chief Scientist, Energy Systems Integration at the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), USA. At NREL he co-led the establishment of the Global Power System Transformation Consortium (G-PST) and is the co-chair of the Research Agenda Group.   

Mark is recognized as a world authority on Energy Systems Integration and in grid integration of renewable energy.  He works closely and collaboratively with researchers in other disciplines, including economists and social scientists, and collaborates extensively with industry globally. He is a Foreign Member of the US National Academy of Engineering, a member of the Royal Irish Academy and a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and has received two Fulbright Fellowships. He is also a Visiting Professor at Imperial College London.

 

15:30-16:15
Coffee and Networking
16:15-17:15
Panel Discussion and Reflection
17:15-17:30
Closing Remarks

Chair

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Professor Peter Bruce FRS

Wolfson Chair in Materials, University of Oxford, and Physical Secretary and Vice-President, The Royal Society

Peter Bruce is Wolfson Professor of Materials at the University of Oxford. His research interests embrace materials chemistry and electrochemistry, with a particular emphasis on energy storage. Recent efforts have focused on the synthesis and understanding of new cathode materials for lithium and sodium ion batteries, understanding processes in all solid-state batteries and the challenges of the lithium-air battery. His pioneering work has provided many advances.

Peter has received numerous awards, including the Tilden Prize of the RSC, the Carl Wagner Award of the ECS, the Liversidge Award of the RSC and the Hughes Medal of the RS. He has also been recognised as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics each year since 2015.

Peter is a founder and Chief Scientist of the Faraday Institution, the UK centre for research on electrochemical energy storage. Peter took up the position of Physical Secretary and Vice President of the Royal Society in 2018.

17:30-18:30
Refreshments and Networking

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