Quino Energy Secures $10M to Disrupt Energy Storage with Sustainable Flow Batteries

Lancaster, CA – Quino Energy, a pioneering developer of next-generation flow battery technology, has announced a $10 million Series A funding round led by Atri Energy Transition. The investment will accelerate the commercialization of Quino's innovative organic flow battery, designed to provide long-duration, sustainable energy storage for a rapidly decarbonizing grid.

Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, Quino Energy’s technology utilizes an electrolyte derived from abundant and inexpensive coal tar derivatives, drastically reducing reliance on scarce and often geopolitically sensitive materials like vanadium. This approach, combined with compatibility with existing industrial infrastructure, positions Quino as a potential disruptor in the long-duration energy storage (LDES) market.

Addressing the Long-Duration Storage Gap

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inherently intermittent. Integrating these resources into the grid requires robust energy storage solutions capable of smoothing out fluctuations and providing reliable power on demand. While lithium-ion batteries have dominated the short-duration storage market, their limitations in terms of cost, lifespan, and safety become more pronounced for longer-duration applications.

“The need for long-duration storage is becoming increasingly urgent,” explains one energy storage analyst. “We’re moving beyond just shaving peaks and into needing storage that can supply power for hours, even days. That’s where flow batteries shine.”

Flow batteries work by storing energy in liquid electrolytes, pumped through an electrochemical cell. This separation of energy storage and power generation allows for independent scaling of capacity and power, enabling longer lifespans and increased safety compared to solid-state batteries.

Quino's Sustainable Advantage

Quino Energy’s innovation lies in its use of organic electrolytes derived from coal tar, a byproduct of steel production. This offers several key advantages. “Using a widely available feedstock like this fundamentally changes the economics of flow batteries,” says a materials scientist familiar with the technology. “It removes the supply chain constraints and price volatility associated with materials like vanadium.”

The company’s manufacturing process is also designed for sustainability. Quino utilizes a “zero-waste continuous-flow production process,” minimizing environmental impact and reducing production costs. Furthermore, the electrolyte is compatible with existing carbon steel tanks commonly used in industrial facilities. This compatibility unlocks the potential to repurpose existing infrastructure, significantly lowering deployment costs and accelerating market adoption.

“The ability to utilize existing infrastructure is a game-changer,” explains a grid infrastructure expert. “It eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming construction of new storage facilities.”

Beyond Cost: Performance and Scalability

While cost reduction is a significant driver, Quino Energy also emphasizes the performance and scalability of its technology. The organic electrolyte exhibits high capacity retention, promising a long lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements. The company has established a pilot production line in Buffalo, New York, capable of producing 100 KWh of reactant solution per day.

The Series A funding will enable Quino to scale production significantly and conduct real-world pilot demonstrations. The company plans to build a 150- to 200-megawatt-hour electrolyte production facility in India, underscoring its ambition to become a global leader in LDES.

Atri Energy Transition: A Strategic Partnership

Atri Energy Transition’s investment in Quino Energy aligns with its strategic focus on deploying LDES solutions. S. Kishore, a principal at Atri, believes that flow battery technology is crucial for enabling a fully decarbonized grid. “We see a tremendous opportunity in flow batteries, and Quino Energy’s innovative approach addresses key challenges in terms of cost, sustainability, and scalability,” says Kishore.

Atri’s expertise in energy infrastructure and project financing will be invaluable as Quino scales its operations and deploys its technology in diverse markets. The partnership will also focus on building a robust supply chain and establishing strategic partnerships with grid operators and utilities.

Pilot Projects and Future Outlook

Quino Energy has already secured significant grant funding from both state and federal entities, validating its technology and potential for real-world deployment. The company is currently deploying an 8 MWh flow battery system at the High Desert Regional Health Centre in Lancaster, California, providing critical backup power and resilience. It’s also participating in a Department of Energy project to demonstrate its technology in carbon steel tanks.

“These pilot projects are crucial for demonstrating the reliability and performance of our technology in real-world conditions,” says a Quino Energy representative.

The long-term outlook for Quino Energy is promising. As the demand for long-duration energy storage continues to grow, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on its innovative technology and strategic partnerships. With its commitment to sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, Quino Energy is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of energy storage.