3 June 2025: Flow Batteries Europe Secretariat attended the “Industrialising Clean Tech in Europe” event to gather key insights and advocate for the role of flow batteries in Europe’s energy transition. As Europe moves from policy planning to large-scale implementation of its clean technology strategy, flow batteries have the opportunity to establish themselves as a solution for renewable energy integration, grid flexibility, and long-duration energy storage.

Why Flow Batteries Matter in Europe’s Energy Transition

Flow batteries provide long-duration, scalable energy storage, essential for stabilising the grid as Europe increases its share of renewables. They support both decarbonisation and energy independence.

What were the key takeaways from the event? 

–       Execution must now follow strategy: Stakeholders agreed that the EU has laid the regulatory groundwork. The challenge now is execution through industrial deployment and investment in real projects.

–       Finance must move faster: Multiple speakers highlighted the urgent need to mobilise capital into clean tech, especially for SMEs and emerging technologies like flow batteries. Instruments like equity, syndicated loans, and URPs are critical.

–       Affordable, decarbonised energy is non-negotiable: Energy cost and availability were central to all discussions, without competitive low-carbon power, flow battery projects won’t scale.

–       Skills and infrastructure matter: From engineers to factory workers, Europe’s ability to scale cleantech depends on industrial expertise. Education and training were flagged as top priorities for 2030 readiness.

–       Public institutions must de-risk private investment: Long-term market visibility, regulatory stability, and proactive public financing (via institutions like the EIB) are essential to attract investors to new technologies.

What This Means for Flow Batteries

To capitalise on this momentum, Europe must integrate flow batteries into its clean tech roadmap, ensuring they benefit from investment mechanisms, policy stability, and a supportive industrial base.