Energy Storage Awards 2026 deadline nears

The deadline for entries to the Energy Storage Awards 2026 is one week away. Submissions must be completed online by 4 September 2026, according to the event's organisers, who note that entry is free of charge. The awards ceremony itself is scheduled for 19 November 2026 at the Hilton London Metropole in London.

This marks the fourth year of the event, which bills itself as the global industry's first and best dedicated awards night for the energy storage sector. The entry window opened in March. The organisers have reported seeing some incomplete submissions and are urging potential entrants to ensure their forms are fully filled out to avoid missing the chance for recognition.

Expanded categories and judging advice

The number of award categories has been expanded for 2026. This change is intended to reflect the growing diversity of disciplines, talents, and technologies within the energy storage world. The organisers suggest this also increases the chances for companies, teams, or individuals to win a main award or a 'Highly Commended' prize for the next-highest-ranked nominees.

In a recent LinkedIn post, awards judge Marek Kubik, described as a renowned 'energy storage aficionado', offered guidance to potential entrants. He highlighted three common pitfalls that can let an entry down. The first is a lack of evidence beyond unsubstantiated claims. Kubik advised entrants to provide specific data like US$/kWh, round-trip efficiency, and availability, and then prove it. 'After dozens of entries, data and supporting evidence is what I remember, not marketing copy,' he wrote.

The second pitfall is a lack of baseline comparisons that provide context. Kubik gave the example that a 400MWh project in Texas might be 'unremarkable' in scale, while the same-sized project in an emerging market could be a game-changer. His advice was for entrants to 'draw comparisons.' The third key issue is a lack of story or narrative. A strong entry should explain the problem solved and offer honesty 'about the ups and downs,' he stated.

More help for entrants is available on the event website's Support page. This includes Top Tips, an entry guide, an explanation of the rules and eligibility, and FAQs.

Special guest speaker announced

The organisers have announced that UK television personality, presenter, journalist, and adventurer Ben Fogle will be the Special Guest Speaker at the ceremony. Fogle, one of the UK's best-known broadcasters and adventurers, has spent over two decades exploring remote locations. His experiences, which include rowing across the Atlantic, racing to the South Pole, crossing the Empty Quarter, and summiting Mount Everest, are said to give him a unique perspective on resilience and adaptability.

He will bring a combination of stories and insights to the event as the energy storage industry gathers for an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration. Tickets and table packages for the ceremony are now available for purchase, with early booking encouraged.