Seasonal Energy Storage

Reaching net zero means decarbonising our energy system by shifting towards renewable generation. But this means we will face higher demand in winter, which needs to be met using energy storage, energy transport, massive overprovision, or through alternative generation. There is also the risk of adverse weather patterns that would depress renewable generation for weeks, such as anticyclonic gloom or dunkelflaute. This project will look at the role that energy storage can play to meet this gap, because storage provides both seasonal balancing and improved energy security. Potential options include large-scale deployment of batteries, thermal storage, embedded energy, demand shift, or hydrogen-based storage. Electric vehicles could also play a part if they are used as a coordinated storage system. The project will model, simulate, and assess different technologies for their technological and financial feasibility, using both technical and techno-economic analysis. Key considerations are efficiency, operating cost, capital expenses, and practical feasibility at scale. Working on different energy storage technologies is an exciting opportunity based on our track record in electrification research. You will be part of a team of researchers alongside experienced supervisors: Dr Thomas Steffen (Reader at Loughborough, expert in the control of energy systems, joined in 2007) and Dr Ashley Fly (Senior Lecturer, with a focus on battery research, joined in 2015). Loughborough University has an applied research culture. In REF 2021, 94% of the work submitted was judged to be top-rated as "world-leading" or "internationally excellent". We are a community based on mutual support and collaboration. Through our Doctoral College, there are continual opportunities for building important research skills and networks among your peers and research academics. 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

Good to excellent STEM degree

The standard University IELTS English language requirement is 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

International students: £28,600

UK students: £5,006

UK/Home: £5,006

International: £28,600

July 2026

1 September 2026

• Loughborough, United Kingdom