Applied Energy
SLAC’s Applied Energy Division identifies and pursues opportunities where SLAC’s unique set of scientists, engineers and facilities have strong potential for performing energy research that will translate into practical solutions. Many of these research areas are undertaken in partnership with the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) and the Materials Science Division (SIMES). Over the next several years, the Applied Energy Division will focus on three main areas: materials for energy, subsurface technology and the 21st century electric grid.
Materials for Energy
SLAC is a partner in JCESR, the DOE’s energy storage hub and Battery500, a new program at EERE. With a focus on energy storage technology, the lab has been developing new materials that show promise for higher energy densities and lower costs for both vehicle and grid batteries. The Applied Energy Program helps to extend fundamental battery research funded by the DOE Office of Science into early prototyping and testing research funded by the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. The focus includes materials synthesis and prototyping, as well as X-ray imaging of materials at SSRL.
Subsurface Technology
Leveraging the imaging capabilities of SSRL, SLAC scientists are working to understand geochemistry and pore structure in shale during interaction with hydraulic fracturing fluids. This program, funded by the National Energy Technology Laboratory and in partnership with Stanford University, has produced new insights into the dissolution and precipitation of minerals in shale, as well as understanding pore connectivity and fluid flow.
21st Century Electric Grid
SLAC participates in the DOE Grid Modernization Lab Consortium, leading programs on the integration of renewable energy and improvements to transactional control schemes in buildings, and partnering with other labs on a California regional demonstration program. The SLAC focus is on developing and prototyping new distribution grid planning tools, measurement and control systems. Our lab, known as GISMo for Grid Integration, Systems and Mobility, focuses on developing key hardware and software and on applying data science and machine learning to the development of next generation grids.
Strategic Partnerships
The Applied Energy Program is always looking for new strategic partners to work with us on confronting the nation’s energy challenges and enhancing U.S. competitiveness in a broad spectrum of research areas. Visit our Research Partnerships site to learn more.
