Battery manufacturing often conjures thoughts of large-scale operations like Tesla’s gigafactories or advanced facilities in China. However, Invinity Energy Systems, based in Bathgate, Scotland, is contributing to the evolving battery landscape with its vanadium-based flow batteries. These batteries, stored in 6-meter shipping containers, are aimed at addressing energy storage needs, particularly relevant in the transition to net-zero carbon grids.
Renewable energy, recognized for its lower environmental impact compared to fossil fuels, faces challenges due to its dependence on variable weather conditions. Efficient energy storage solutions are seen as essential for balancing supply and demand, especially given recent disruptions, such as the significant blackout in Spain and Portugal in April, which raised concerns about energy security.
Experts in the field note an increasing awareness of the necessity for energy storage as renewable energy deployment expands. Iola Hughes from Rho Motion anticipates that total global battery storage installations could rise significantly, potentially reaching 1,500 GWh by 2027, driven largely by the decreasing costs of technology and a growing market demand.
Notably, while much current focus remains on lithium-ion technologies, Invinity’s flow batteries present an alternative that may be advantageous for longer-duration storage. These flow batteries can discharge over longer periods compared to their lithium counterparts, contributing to a more stable energy grid.
Invinity operates with a workforce of around 90 employees and aims to expand its production beyond its current capacity. Chief Executive Jonathan Marren envisions significant growth in the company, aspiring to increase their workforce to approximately 1,000 as demand for their technology grows. The firm is positioned to capitalize on potential support from government initiatives aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities in the energy storage sector.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/sep/09/uk-battery-firms-net-zero-renewables-energy-security