Energy storage research institute opens office in Newcastle

The Faraday Institution today opened a regional office in the city of Newcastle.

The Faraday Institution is the UK’s independent institute for electrochemical energy storage research, skills development, market analysis, and early-stage commercialisation.

Known as Faraday Institution North East (FINE), the office will be based in Newcastle University and led by Professor Colin Herron CBE and supported by Lois Warne.

FINE aims to bring together multiple bodies in the battery innovation ecosystem including research and innovation centres, education and skills organisations, regional and national government and policy representatives, and battery cell manufacturers and associated supply chain partners to accelerate innovation.

Remarking on the citing of the new office, Faraday Institution CEO, Professor Pam Thomas said: “The research and industrial strength of the North East of England will be absolutely vital to enable the UK to fully transition to an electrified future – from transport and aviation to power generation and distribution.

“The goal of the FINE office is to further integrate the region’s battery ecosystem to clear the path from research bench to innovation and commercial manufacture so that the UK can prosper in this energy transformation.”

Professor Brian Walker, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research Strategy and Resources of Newcastle University said, “Major announcements by Envision AESC and Britishvolt in the past year have signalled to the world that the North East is a critical region for batteries.

“Establishing the FINE office in Newcastle University is a reflection of the research strengths that we have available to enable an expansion of training and innovation in batteries, alongside our leadership in electrification of transport through the Driving the Electric Revolution centre.

“This development along with many others, demonstrates Newcastle University’s commitment to seek out short and long-term solutions to the challenges associated with climate change.”

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