Next-generation Technology Demonstrators and Transformational Challenges
Current Projects
Three projects accelerate the real-world validation of breakthrough battery chemistries by bridging fundamental research and practical demonstration. This strand advances research into solid-state, lithium-sulfur and sodium-ion batteries, from laboratory concept to practical use.
Solid-State Batteries
Sodium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
Transformational Challenges
To accelerate progress in areas with extraordinary impact potential, the Faraday Institution has introduced Transformational Challenges into its research portfolio. These challenges are designed to target energy storage applications where only the most conceptual ideas and early-stage research currently exist.
UltraStore
The first Transformational Challenge, UltraStore, is focused on developing ultra-low cost long duration energy storage solutions capable of storing energy for many months and able to discharge to the electricity grid for over 100 hours.
In March 2025, the Faraday Institution invited expressions of interest from individuals and small teams to participate as research consultants in a co-creation and planning phase with the Faraday Institution, that aimed to develop the scope for a larger programme of research to start in 2026. This initial phase set out to identify and develop radical new approaches to grid energy storage and step changes in performance and cost that open new possibilities for technologies that have yet to be explored in great detail.
During the summer of 2025, the Faraday Institution worked with eight groups to develop the proposed 2026 research programme and conduct technoeconomic analyses for potential solutions. Further collaborative work took place through the autumn to shape the programme structure, project roadmaps, and strategies for IP, manufacturing, solution engineering and commercialisation.
The Faraday Institution expects to fund up to two large-scale research projects in this area in 2026/27.
Battery energy storage in Melksham, Wiltshire, with peak output 50 MW. Photo courtesy of Gresham House.
HighPerCell
The second Transformational Challenge, HighPerCell will push the performance boundaries of electrochemical technologies. It aims to achieve a more than three-fold increase in energy density over current best-in-class lithium-ion batteries, along with dramatic improvements in power density, whilst ensuring the highest levels of safety. It is primarily focused on addressing aerospace use cases, but will also be of interest and relevance to other markets such as defence and motorsport.
HighPerCell builds on the consultative approach developed for UltraStore. A call for research and engineering consultants opened in November 2025, inviting industry and academic experts to work with the Faraday Institution and stakeholders from aerospace and defence to co-create and scope a major research programme that will be launched later in 2026. The institution is working closely with the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) on this initiative.
First Full-Scale Demonstrator for 30-seat Hybrid-Electric Airplane. Courtesy of Heart Aerospace.