Our research

The Energy Institute carries out research across a wide range of fields, including renewable, nuclear and conventional energy generation, energy storage, energy use and carbon capture, utilisation and storage technology. Our teams work with industry and government on sustainable solutions.

The research pillars at the heart of our pioneering work:

ELectric car charge

Electrical energy storage

Our research strives to increase the flexibility and reliability of our energy infrastructure by maximising storage capabilities for electrical energy.

Electrical energy storage research

Nuclear power cooling station

Nuclear

Nuclear power generates electricity without producing greenhouse gases. Our research ensures this can be done safely, securely and sustainably.

Nuclear research

Warehouse distribution

Circular economy

Our research creates future supply chains, systems and societies that are resource and energy efficient.

Circular economy research

offshore wind farm

Wind

We have an international profile and a strong record of research in wind energy, generator design and industrial collaboration.

Wind research

PACT energy storage

Conventional power

Our research looks at ways to reduce and even eliminate carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel power plants and heavy industry.

Conventional power research

Hydrogen fuel cell car - Getty 15731155

Hydrogen

Hydrogen is a clean source of fuel that can be used to heat our homes, power industry and transport. We have the facilities and expertise to enable the deployment of a UK hydrogen economy.

Hydrogen research

Cross cutting themes

City

Decarbonising cities

Decarbonising cities is fundamental to achieving net zero goals by 2050. From understanding energy usage to sustainable building materials and zero energy home, our researchers finding solutions that will ensure an affordable, sustainable energy future for city regions around the world.

Research into decarbonising cities

Steel works

Decarbonising industries

Without action to decarbonise industry the UK will not reach its goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The Energy Institute is drawing on its world-leading expertise and internationally recognised testing facilities to make green industry a reality.

Making green industry a reality

Our growing areas of research

Solar panels on top of Hicks

Solar

Our research focuses on solar electricity generation in the UK and its integration into the energy system.

Solar research

Light blur cityscape

Resources, Infrastructure Systems and Built Environments (RISE)

This research seeks to generate new knowledge and insights for use in planning, policy and design for the creation of a built environment that allows humanity to thrive within the carrying capacity of the planet.

More information coming soon

an aeroplane engine against a blue sky
The LITECS programme aims to enable the development of low emission engine designs.

Sustainable liquid fuels for transport

The focus of this research group includes aviation, heavy goods and marine transport which are essential for the smooth running of modern society. By finding greener, more sustainable fuel alternatives we can help to decarbonise these vital industries.

More information coming soon

a woman plugs in a device
Is paying customers to help support renewable energy the way forward?

Energy systems

Our research in this area examines the flexibility, resilience and security of energy systems, whilst studying the social and behavioural changes required to enable a transition to cleaner and smarter energy.

More information coming soon

a man points at a screen with data
Software modelling will better ensure the safety of future nuclear reactors.

Energy simulation and modelling

A recently established research team focusing on crosscutting computer-based methodology and tools which will support the design and operation of various energy systems.

More information coming soon

The team behind the research