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For people, place, prosperity and planet, we deliver impact with measurement science

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Environment

Enabling new energy sources

Development and delivery of decarbonised energy

Research to support decarbonisation technology 

NPL participates in a range of research programmes that support the development of decarbonised solutions for replacement of carbon-based fossil fuels. Our research includes investigating: hydrogen and its applications, carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), renewable energy generation and integration of renewable technologies, and associated infrastructural impacts such as repurposing of existing gas and electricity grids.

Carbon capture usage and storage programme

The implementation of carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) will present a range of measurement needs and challenges for industry. NPL’s research and development is supporting confidence in CCUS technologies through providing world-leading measurement expertise.

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Hydrogen programme

NPL is exploring the measurement needs and challenges associated with the use of hydrogen gas as an alternative energy source. Our research and development is helping address measurement challenges relating to the generation, production, distribution and consumption of hydrogen. 

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Smart electricity grid and storage

To deliver the UK’s net-zero ambitions we need an intelligent, storage enabled electrical grid which is optimised for renewables including wind and solar sources. The necessary changes, however, increase management complexity. Renewable energy sources can be intermittent and weather dependent, increasing the risk of grid instability, power quality issues, interference and even service interruptions. The effectiveness and efficiency of network infrastructure and equipment will be critical to success, and high density energy batteries for storage will likely have a key role to play.

If you would like to learn more about our work developing smart electricity grid and battery solutions please contact the team.

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There will be ongoing challenges to overcome as we manage demand on the electricity grid and transition away from traditional energy sources. NPL’s research is helping to address the priorities, including:

  • grid optimisation through network analysis
  • development of power quality standards, testing and verification for renewable generation
  • understanding digital demand and grid interference
  • diagnostics, modelling and lifetime prediction, including end-of-life management for optimised reuse, recycling or safe disposal of batteries used for energy storage
  • developing operational battery measurements to improve safety, efficiency and operational lifetime.

Using scientific evidence to support real world action

The UK Government has set ambitious targets for transforming the UK’s energy system, outlined in the 10 Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, the Energy White Paper and the Clean Growth Strategy which provide a robust framework for how the UK can deliver on climate action and meet these targets.

NPL is working to deliver on these strategies. We support world-leading innovation, and our research is helping to drive cost reductions and ensure deployment of low-carbon technologies. NPL’s research is also increasing our understanding of emissions and pollution, and we are working to improve how we measure key climate variables both on the ground and from space. We apply the latest advances in measurement science to make every stage of energy generation, transport and usage more efficient, safe and affordable, and to improve the quality of data available on the state of our climate and natural environment.

Case study

Improving expertise in nuclear data for reduced uncertainty

Article

Case study

Enabling the injection of biomethane into the gas grid

Article

Case study

Providing accredited measurements for hydrogen fuel

Article

Working with NPL

Our researchers are at the forefront of new innovations that promise to deliver new solutions for environmental challenges. We play a vital role in providing the standards and assurance to accelerate new products to market and providing reliable data. Learn more about our research areas and working with our experts.  

If you have a research collaboration where our expertise can help, please contact the team and discuss your challenge.

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Contact us

Our research and measurement solutions support innovation and product development. We work with companies to deliver business advantage and commercial success.
Contact our Customer Services team on +44 20 8943 7070

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