We spearhead collaborative research to revolutionize energy storage technologies for a sustainable and electrified future.

ESRA unites leading experts from national labs and universities to pave the way for energy storage and next-generation battery discovery that will shape the future of power. Led by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory, ESRA aims to transform the landscape of materials chemistry and unlock the mysteries of electrochemical phenomena at the atomic scale.

Comprising 14 partner organizations from national laboratories and universities, ESRA encompasses globally renowned energy storage and battery research programs. By laying the scientific groundwork for breakthrough energy storage technologies, ESRA is forging a path towards high-energy batteries that never catch fire, offer days of long-duration storage, have multiple decades of life, and are made from inexpensive, abundant materials. The pivotal discoveries of ESRA hold promise for reshaping industries, reducing environmental impact, enhancing energy security, and contributing to a clean and secure energy future.

Transformative research

ESRA science opens the door to creating ultra-high energy density rechargeable batteries known as metal-air cells. It will also help accelerate solid-state battery chemistry and spur the development of organic soft materials to enable energy storage that involves multiple electron reactions.

A dynamic ecosystem

ESRA thrives within a dynamic ecosystem of collaboration. Its partners and advisors span national labs, leading universities, and industry pioneers. By fostering innovation and developing battery materials that prevent the U.S. from being vulnerable to supply chain risks, ESRA discoveries promise a new era of sustainable energy storage.

Next-generation workforce

The ESRA team is committed to cultivating a diverse next-generation battery workforce through training programs that bridge academia, industry, and government, ensuring the development of skilled professionals poised to lead in battery research and future manufacturing. ESRA partners include three minority serving institutions and Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black college.

ESRA at-a-glance

3 national labs
11 universities
3 innovative scientific thrusts
Nearly 50 researchers
11 states

“Meeting the rising demand for advanced and sustainable energy storage solutions is paramount, especially for heavy-duty transportation and decarbonization of the electric grid. Unlocking unprecedented performance beyond current lithium-ion technology is crucial. Our path forward rests in robust research, firmly rooted in fundamental science.”

— Shirley Meng, ESRA director