TechX Clean Energy Accelerator | Pioneer Portfolio | SoLead Energy

SoLead Energy

Location
Southampton, UK
Technology Focus Area
Renewable power
Technology Readiness Level
4

Stationary energy storage addresses challenges such as matching intermittent renewable generation with demand and replacing diesel generators. However, lithium-ion batteries, the current market leader, are difficult to recycle, raise ethical sourcing concerns, and are prone to thermal runaway, with over 25,000 fire or overheating incidents in the past five years.

SoLead Energy is developing the Soluble Lead Flow Battery, which uses lead dissolved in a water-based electrolyte, eliminating the risk of fire. The materials can be sourced and returned to the existing lead-acid recycling infrastructure, which is globally established, offering low-cost, abundant resources.

The company’s patent-pending stack design improves efficiency, while the modular system enables maintenance to extend the battery’s service life. In contrast, conventional batteries are harder to recycle and require temperature control, which reduces efficiency in extreme climates.