Such technologies are considered to be crucial if the UK is to scale up renewable energy facilities and reach net zero carbon by 2050.

The variable nature of renewables like solar and wind power means that energy can be produced when it is not needed, such as during extended periods of high wind. New energy storage technologies can help to store that excess energy to be harnessed at times of peak usage.

The money, which is provided by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, will be spread across five projects:

• StorTera will receive just over £5m to build a prototype demonstrator of its energy-dense single liquid flow battery (SLIQ) technology that is designed to boost grid flexibility.
• Sunamp will receive £9.25m for a project that will trial its advanced thermal storage system in 100 homes across the UK. The project will extend Sunamp's existing heat battery to provide increased storage duration and capacity and pair it with household...