Europe must support role of long-duration energy storage in electrification, security and competitiveness, trade groups say

June 4, 2026

Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition and Commissioner for Competition Teresa Ribera (centre) and EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen (right), at an April AccelerateEU media event, with EC chief spokesperson Paula Pinho. Image: © European Union, 202X, licensed under CC BY 4.0

The European Commission (EC) must “acknowledge the clear role of long-duration energy storage (LDES),” 10 organisations, including Energy Storage Europe and the LDES Council, have urged.

The groups argue that long-duration energy storage, which they define as resources capable of providing power for 8-hour durations or longer, should be considered strategic infrastructure that will play a major role in Europe’s security and competitiveness.

As the European Union’s (EU’s) energy transition accelerates, LDES is essential in providing reliable baseload power without fossil fuel backup and maximising the use of renewable energy resources, while supporting the electrification of industry and enhancing the reliability of the energy system, according to a joint letter signed by the clean technology and energy storage associations.