Scientists have developed an experimental battery that can store both electricity and hydrogen at the same time, offering a new way to solve one of clean energy's biggest challenges. Hydrogen is an attractive fuel because it produces only water when used, but storing it safely usually requires either very high pressure or extremely low temperatures. The new battery stores hydrogen under normal conditions while also functioning as a rechargeable battery, making energy storage simpler and potentially much safer.
The device uses magnesium metal, hydrogen gas, and a solid material that conducts hydride ions, which are hydrogen atoms carrying an extra electron. During charging and discharging, hydrogen moves back and forth through the solid electrolyte while electrical energy is stored or released. Instead of compressing hydrogen into tanks, the battery locks it inside a solid metal hydride, allowing it to operate at room temperature and normal air pressure. In early tests, the system achieved nearly 94% hydrogen energy efficiency and successfully powered a small LED using multiple connected cells.
This dual-purpose design could reduce the cost and complexity of storing renewable energy while making hydrogen easier to handle. By combining electricity storage and hydrogen storage in a single system, the technology offers a flexible way to balance power supplies and support a cleaner energy future without relying on bulky high-pressure equipment.
RESEARCH PAPER 
DOI: 10.1016/j.joule.2026.102475
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