Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has been honored with the 2025 BCI Innovation Award by Battery Council International (BCI) in recognition of its establishment and launch of the Grid Storage Launchpad (GSL), a pioneering facility aimed at advancing the nation’s energy storage capabilities.
The award highlights PNNL’s role in delivering transformative research infrastructure that supports the development of next-generation energy storage technologies. Located at PNNL’s Richland, Washington, campus, the Grid Storage Launchpad is a $75 million Department of Energy (DOE)-funded facility through the Office of Electricity. The GSL is designed to accelerate the development, validation, and deployment of innovative battery and storage solutions that are essential for ensuring a resilient, affordable, and sustainable power grid.
“Partnerships between the private sector and U.S. national labs are critical to supporting continuous improvement to existing technology and developing the next generation of energy storage solutions,” said Roger Miksad, Executive Vice President of BCI. “Battery Council International is proud to recognize PNNL and the spirit of partnership and collaboration that its Grid Storage Launchpad represents.”
The GSL is intended to serve as a national hub for energy storage research and testing, bringing together scientists, engineers, and industry partners to address challenges in grid-scale storage. With its comprehensive capabilities and collaborative approach, the facility is expected to play a vital role in supporting the U.S. transition to clean energy.
“We are honored to be recognized with this award,” said Vince Sprenkle, Director of the Grid Storage Launchpad at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. “PNNL looks forward to a continued partnership with BCI in meeting the nation’s energy storage needs.”
In addition to PNNL’s recognition, Daramic received an Honorable Mention for its 2025 Innovation Award submission, which focused on the development of advanced separators for low overcharge conditions in deep cycle applications.
BCI’s annual Innovation Award recognizes advancements in equipment, processes, services, and products that significantly contribute to the evolution of the lead battery industry. The award commemorates the legacy of Sally Breidegam Miksiewicz, former CEO of East Penn Manufacturing Co., and celebrates ongoing innovation and leadership within the battery sector.
