AquaBattery, an innovative startup born from Imperial College London, has achieved a significant milestone with a €6 million seed investment round aimed at propelling its groundbreaking flow battery technology. Co-founded by Dr. Jiajun Cen, a visionary Imperial graduate, AquaBattery focuses on developing a sustainable energy storage solution using ordinary salt water.
The concept behind AquaBattery’s flow battery is as elegant as it is revolutionary: during charging, the battery converts salt water into acid and base components, which are stored separately. When electricity is needed, these components react to release power, effectively storing and supplying energy in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner.
“This investment marks a pivotal moment in AquaBattery’s journey towards bringing our technology to market by 2026,” shared Dr. Jiajun Cen. The funding will accelerate the development of their first standardized battery module and bolster the recruitment of top-tier talent, essential for scaling operations.
Leading the investment round is EIT InnoEnergy Benelux, underscoring their confidence in AquaBattery’s potential to transform energy storage solutions. The round also includes support from InnovationQuarter, Invest-NL, Init Power, and a consortium of dedicated business angels, highlighting widespread industry support for sustainable innovation.
AquaBattery’s journey intertwines London and the Netherlands, where Dr. Cen nurtured his entrepreneurial ambitions and academic pursuits. With roots deeply embedded in both regions, AquaBattery exemplifies international collaboration in advancing clean energy technologies.
“We are proud to partner with AquaBattery as they pioneer advancements in flow battery technology,” remarked Roel van Diepen, Investment Director at EIT InnoEnergy Benelux. “Their innovative approach holds promise for integrating renewable energy sources efficiently into our future energy grids.”
Collaborations with esteemed institutions like Imperial College London further underscore AquaBattery’s commitment to innovation. Working closely with Imperial’s Department of Chemical Engineering, AquaBattery is refining critical components of their technology, such as ion exchange membranes, to enhance battery efficiency and affordability.
“As the UK reengages with Horizon Europe, our collaboration with AquaBattery exemplifies our shared commitment to tackling global energy challenges,” noted Dr. Qilei Song from Imperial’s Department of Chemical Engineering. This partnership aims to advance membrane technology through research supported by European grants, paving the way for sustainable energy solutions.
With momentum building and collaborations expanding, AquaBattery remains at the forefront of sustainable energy storage innovation, poised to redefine the future of global energy landscapes.
