UK – On the 16^th of May, Innovate UK*, the United Kingdom's innovation agency, announced the latest round (6) of funding for the Faraday Battery Challenge which aims to accelerate the development of sustainable and affordable battery technologies in the UK. A total sum of GBP 10 million has been allocated for business-led collaborative feasibility studies and Contract Research and Development (CR&D) projects. This is designed to help the UK reach its net zero commitments for 2050.

The range of projects covering different technologies focuses on different aspects of the battery value chain. In particular, the government aims to boost the UK’s EV battery supply chain, and as a result, the challenge is aimed at backing projects that can improve battery performance, reduce the cost of batteries, develop more efficient and globally competitive manufacturing processes, develop more sustainable batteries, and accelerate the development and deployment of battery technology.

*Innovate UK provides money and support to organisations to make new products and services. It is a non-departmental public body operating at arm's length from the Government as part of the United Kingdom Research and Innovation Organisation.