EV Battery Innovations 2025

Kallipso Mais on February 3, 2025

EV Battery Innovations 2025

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing rapid advancements in battery technology, aiming to enhance performance, increase energy density, and promote sustainability.

As we progress through 2025, there are a few key innovations that are shaping the future of EV batteries.

3 Electric Vehicle Battery Innovations

Solid State Batteries

Solid-state batteries are emerging as a transformative technology in the EV market. By replacing the liquid electrolyte found in traditional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte, these batteries offer higher energy density, improved safety, and faster charging times.

Automakers are actively investing in this technology, with plans to integrate solid-state batteries into vehicles in the near future.

Carbon Nanotube Electrodes

The integration of carbon nanotube electrodes in lithium-ion batteries is a significant advancement. These electrodes enhance electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, leading to higher energy density and improved battery performance.

Companies like NAWA Technologies have developed vertically aligned carbon nanotube designs that can triple the energy density of lithium batteries, offering faster charging and longer ranges for electric vehicles.

Sodium-Ion Batteries

Sodium-ion batteries are gaining attention as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Utilising abundant materials like sodium, these batteries can reduce reliance on scarce resources and lower production costs.

Recent developments indicate that sodium-ion batteries are becoming a viable option for large-scale energy storage and certain EV applications.

Battery Recycling and Second-Life Applications

As the EV market expands, the focus on battery recycling and second-life applications has intensified. Advanced recycling technologies are being developed to efficiently dismantle and repurpose used batteries, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. These initiatives not only mitigate environmental impact but also contribute to a more sustainable supply chain for battery materials.

We Collect and Recycle EV Batteries

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in the collection and recycling of EV batteries, including those from electric vehicles. Our services ensure that valuable materials are recovered and reintroduced into the supply chain, supporting sustainability in the EV industry. By partnering with businesses, we manage bulk loads of used batteries, contributing to environmental conservation and resource efficiency.

The advancements in EV battery technology, such as solid-state batteries, carbon nanotube electrodes, and sodium-ion batteries, are paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future. As these innovations become mainstream, the importance of effective battery recycling and material recovery will continue to grow.

What’s The Difference Between Lithium and Alkaline Batteries?

Kallipso Mais on December 17, 2024

What’s The Difference Between Lithium and Alkaline Batteries?

At A Glance...

From costs to energy density, there are a range of differences between lithium and alkaline batteries. With a vast range of batteries available on the market today, understanding the differences is key when finding the correct type.

In this article, we will share the main differences between lithium and alkaline batteries, along with the correct disposal methods.

Lithium Vs. Alkaline Batteries

Costs

When comparing costs, alkaline batteries are generally more affordable upfront. These batteries typically work well in low-drain devices such as remote controls or clocks, making them an ideal budget-friendly option.

Lithium batteries, on the other hand, come at a higher price. However, they are designed for high-drain electronic devices and offer exceptional battery life, meaning they save you money in the long run. So while the upfront cost is greater, the longevity of lithium batteries makes them a smart investment.

Applications

The application of each battery type largely depends on power needs. Alkaline batteries perform best in devices that require a steady, low-to-moderate energy supply. Think of everyday items like remote controls, flashlights, and basic toys.

Lithium batteries offer higher power and are the go-to option for devices that demand more energy. These include electric vehicles, digital cameras, smartphones, and other power-hungry electronics. Additionally, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries dominate in modern applications, particularly in portable electronic devices.

Energy Density

One of the most significant differences between lithium and alkaline batteries lies in their energy densities. Lithium batteries have a much higher energy density, meaning they can store more energy relative to their size and weight. This is why they are ideal for compact, high-power devices.

Compared to alkaline batteries, lithium batteries are lighter, more efficient, and capable of delivering consistent performance over time. For example, lithium manganese dioxide batteries are particularly popular for their ability to power high-drain devices without losing efficiency.

Cycles

When it comes to usage cycles, lithium batteries far outperform their alkaline counterparts. Standard alkaline batteries are single-use, meaning they are not rechargeable and must be replaced after their energy is depleted.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, however, can undergo hundreds of charge cycles, making them more sustainable and cost-effective over time. This is a key reason why lithium batteries are preferred for devices that require regular use and longer lifespans.

Voltage

Voltage is another area where the two batteries differ significantly. ‘Standard’ alkaline batteries typically provide 1.5 volts, which gradually decreases as the battery is used. This drop in voltage can impact how batteries perform in devices over time.

Lithium batteries, on the other hand, maintain a more stable voltage output for longer periods. This consistent power delivery ensures that devices operate efficiently without sudden drops in performance. Lithium-manganese oxide batteries have a voltage range of 3.7V to 4.2V.

By understanding the differences between lithium and alkaline batteries—from chemical reactions to battery life and applications—you can make more informed choices about the best power solutions for your needs. Whether you’re looking for everyday performance or high-power efficiency, selecting the right battery will save you time, energy, and money in the long run.

We Dispose Of Lithium Batteries

To dispose of these batteries safely, particularly when dealing with large volumes, it’s essential to partner with a professional business. At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling lithium ion batteries for businesses across the UK. All the materials we collect are recycled or reused in new applications, promoting a circular approach to battery waste.

Why Do We Need Energy Storage Systems?

Kallipso Mais on November 12, 2024

Why Do We Need Energy Storage Systems?

At A Glance...

Energy storage systems are a critical source of backup power, harnessing energy needed in situations such as peak demand and black-outs.

These systems store excess energy generated by sources like solar and wind and release it when it’s needed most, providing resilience and reliability to the power grid.

Lithium-ion batteries, in particular, have become a leading technology in this field due to their efficiency, durability, and versatility.

Below are a few key reasons battery storage systems are needed:

7 Reasons We Need Energy Storage Systems

Stabilising the Electrical Grid

The electrical grid is a complex infrastructure that supplies power to millions of people and industries. However, the grid faces challenges such as fluctuating demand, infrastructure limitations, and reliance on fossil fuels.

By incorporating battery energy storage, especially lithium-ion batteries, the grid gains a buffer. This storage helps balance supply and demand, especially during peak demand times when energy needs spike, and transmission and distribution systems are stressed. Storing energy allows for quick release during high-demand periods, reducing the risk of blackouts and supporting grid reliability.

Supporting Renewable Energy Integration

As renewable energy sources like solar and wind become more prominent, managing their intermittent nature becomes crucial.

These energy sources are dependent on weather conditions, leading to periods of surplus generation (sunny or windy days) and low generation (cloudy or calm days).

Battery energy storage systems make it possible to store excess energy generated during peak renewable production and discharge it when production drops, ensuring a consistent power supply.

Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels

Traditional power generation heavily relies on fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental pollutants. By investing in lithium-ion batteries and other storage technologies, we can reduce the need for fossil-fuel-based power plants, especially during peak demand.

This shift lowers electricity costs by reducing the operational costs associated with fossil-fuel plants and decreasing the environmental impact. ESS contributes to the decarbonisation of the grid, helping countries meet their climate goals and lowering the overall carbon footprint of electricity generation.

Supporting Electric Vehicles (EVs)

EVs are a critical part of the clean energy transition, and they rely on battery technology, often lithium-ion, for power. As EV adoption grows, so does the demand for efficient and high-capacity batteries.

Additionally, ESS technology complements EV infrastructure by storing energy generated from renewable sources to charge EVs during off-peak times. This synergy between battery storage and EVs supports cleaner transportation, reduces emissions, and lessens the overall strain on the grid.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Lowering Electricity Costs

Efficient energy storage systems contribute significantly to energy efficiency by reducing the amount of wasted energy. By capturing surplus energy that would otherwise go unused, ESS ensures that power is available when it’s needed without requiring additional generation.

This capability not only enhances grid efficiency but also reduces electricity costs for consumers, as stored energy can be released during peak times when electricity prices are higher. Over time, this efficiency contributes to lower utility bills and promotes more responsible energy use.

Resilience and Backup Power in Emergencies

Energy storage systems offer vital backup power during unexpected outages, such as those caused by natural disasters or sudden demand surges. In these situations, stored energy can be rapidly deployed to ensure that essential services and households remain powered.

Lithium-ion battery storage is particularly effective for these applications because of its fast response times and high energy density. By providing a reliable source of backup power, ESS enhances community resilience and mitigates the impact of power outages.

Encouraging Technological Advancements in Storage Solutions

The rise in demand for ESS has spurred rapid advancements in storage technologies. Lithium-ion batteries have become the industry standard for high-performance energy storage due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and efficiency.

However, ongoing research and innovation are leading to new developments, including solid-state batteries and flow batteries. These advancements contribute to a more efficient and sustainable energy landscape, lowering costs and improving battery longevity, which in turn accelerates the transition to a cleaner energy system.

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling lithium batteries, and those used for energy storage systems. If you are a business generating bulk loads of battery waste, we can provide collections nationwide. Please get in touch with our team today to find out more about our recycling services, or to book a collection for your battery waste.

Do EVs Use Lithium Batteries?

Kallipso Mais on November 6, 2024

Do EVs Use Lithium Batteries?

At A Glance...

Yes, EVs most commonly use lithium batteries for their long battery life and efficiency. In this article, we will discuss why electric cars use lithium ion batteries, and the benefits of doing so.

9 Reasons Lithium Batteries Are Used For EVs

High Energy Density for Long Ranges

Lithium-ion EV batteries provide high energy density, meaning they can store a lot of energy in a compact, lightweight design. This enables electric vehicles (EVs) like the Nissan Leaf to achieve longer ranges on a single charge without excessive bulk or weight.

Higher battery capacity also reduces the need for frequent recharging, making electric cars more practical compared to those with lead-acid batteries or older technologies.

Efficient Energy Storage and Performance

Lithium-ion technology is known for its efficient energy storage and power delivery, enabling quick acceleration and strong performance. The efficiency of lithium-ion batteries makes them particularly well-suited to electric car batteries that must perform reliably across different driving conditions. This is especially important as EVs aim to provide a comparable experience to traditional combustion engines used in petrol or diesel vehicles.

Fast Charging Capability

Lithium-ion battery packs can handle faster charging speeds than other types, meaning shorter charging stops for EV drivers. With ongoing improvements in fast-charging infrastructure, EVs are increasingly capable of providing more convenient and rapid charging cycles, which appeals to drivers accustomed to the quick refuelling of petrol or diesel cars.

Extended Lifespan with Multiple Charging Cycles

EV battery cells are designed to last through many charging cycles, making lithium-ion batteries a long-term solution for electric vehicles (EVs). They can endure years of charging and discharging without significant degradation in battery capacity, which is essential for both all-electric and hybrid cars. This durability also contributes to lower replacement costs over the vehicle’s life.

Low Self-Discharge Rate

Lithium-ion electric car batteries have a low self-discharge rate, retaining their charge well even when not in use. This makes them ideal for EVs, as drivers can leave their cars parked for extended periods without worrying about energy drain. For those transitioning from fossil fuels to electric options, this feature enhances the overall convenience of EVs.

Lightweight and Compact Design

Lithium-ion battery packs are significantly lighter than traditional options like lead-acid batteries, which helps make electric vehicles (EVs) more efficient. This lower weight allows EVs to match or even exceed the efficiency of cars powered by combustion engines. Weight reduction is especially crucial in small to mid-sized EVs, which need to balance space, energy, and weight effectively to achieve optimal performance.

High Power-to-Weight Ratio for Performance

Lithium-ion battery cells provide high power relative to their weight, enabling quick acceleration and robust performance. This is especially beneficial for drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) who want a responsive driving experience similar to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. The power-to-weight ratio is also advantageous for high-performance EV models that compete with or outperform combustion-based cars.

Scalability in Large Battery Packs

Lithium-ion batteries can be organised into large, scalable battery packs for EVs without compromising efficiency. This flexibility allows manufacturers to fit batteries into different models, from compact cars to large SUVs, and manage battery cells in configurations that maximise energy storage. This adaptability is vital as electric car designs evolve to meet a range of consumer needs.

Ongoing Advancements in Technology

Research into solid-state batteries is making strides, promising even higher energy densities and faster charging capabilities for future EV batteries. Although solid-state batteries are still in development, their potential to improve battery capacity and charging cycles could further enhance the practicality of electric vehicles (EVs). These advancements are part of the industry’s push toward sustainable, long-term alternatives to fossil fuels and combustion engines.

The Benefits Of Lithium Batteries For Electric Cars

Lithium-ion batteries are favoured for electric vehicles (EVs) due to their combination of high energy density, long lifespan, efficient charging, and lightweight design. They provide a powerful, efficient alternative to fossil fuel engines, aligning with the automotive industry’s goal to reduce reliance on petrol or diesel.

When disposing of these batteries, it’s important to use a professional recycling business. At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling lithium batteries for businesses nationwide. This includes lithium batteries used for electric cars, e-bikes, e-scooters, solar power systems and many other products.

Aviva Urges Businesses to Mitigate Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

Kallipso Mais on November 4, 2024

Aviva Urges Businesses to Mitigate Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

At A Glance...

Aviva is calling on businesses to take proactive steps in managing the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Recent survey data reveals that these batteries are crucial to daily operations for 95% of businesses, with one-third (33%) of respondents labelling them as “essential” or “critical.”

However, the survey also highlights that many businesses are neglecting basic safety measures for handling, storing, charging, and disposing of lithium-ion batteries. Alarming findings show that 45% of respondents do not conduct regular inspections for damage, 45% use non-certified chargers, and 46% admit to allowing batteries to overcharge.

Lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, and e-scooters and are increasingly essential in commercial environments.

For example, they power portable tools on construction sites, battery-driven forklifts in warehouses, and fleets of electric vehicles for transport.

These batteries offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional options, and businesses clearly recognise their operational value. However, as Chris Andrews, Director of Aviva Risk Management Solutions (ARMS), notes, “this new technology doesn’t come without risks.”

Understanding the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries contain a mix of chemicals that can elevate fire risks, often due to physical damage, manufacturing defects, unauthorised modifications, or improper charging.

These issues can trigger “thermal runaway”—an uncontrollable rise in temperature that can result in fires that are difficult to control or extinguish.

Charging practices also contribute to battery-related risks. About half of respondents report using certified chargers (55%) and avoiding overcharging (54%). Fewer businesses ensure that charging areas are well-ventilated (42%) or non-flammable (38%).

Proper Disposal and Training Are Essential

Because of the risks, lithium-ion batteries should not be thrown away in regular trash or recycled with other battery types. When disposing of lithium batteries, you should contact a professional team to ensure safe protocols take place.

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in collecting and recycling lithium batteries for businesses, ensuring safe and secure disposal methods. With our help, businesses can ensure they are acting safely whilst following UK regulations and guidelines surrounding battery waste.

Solidion Technology Unveils Breakthrough in Fast-Charging Battery Solutions

Kallipso Mais on October 30, 2024

Solidion Technology Unveils Fast-Charging Lithium Battery Solution

At A Glance...

Solidion Technology Advancement Achieves Full Charges In As Little As 5 minutes

Solidion Technology, a leader in advanced battery technology, has announced a major advancement in battery design, enabling a wide array of lithium batteries to achieve full charges in as little as 5 minutes—without the high costs often associated with such innovations. The business aims to bring this groundbreaking technology to market within the next two to three years.

A persistent obstacle in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has been “range anxiety”—the concern that an EV might run out of battery power mid-trip, especially since recharging generally takes far longer than fueling a traditional gasoline car. This concern is intensified by the longer charging times required at lower temperatures.

In response, Solidion’s engineering team has developed and patented a unique system and method that allows rapid charging of battery cells or packs under any weather condition. This new approach protects the battery, providing a safe operational mode that minimises the risk of thermal runaway.

How Does The System Work?

The system centres around a graphene-based heat spreader that facilitates rapid heating of the battery during the charging process. It also incorporates a cooling component that activates while the battery is powering a device, such as an EV.

This dynamic switching between heating and cooling during charging and discharging improves battery safety and performance. Graphene, with its exceptionally high thermal conductivity (5,300 W/m-K), far outperforms traditional materials like copper, which is both less efficient at 410 W/m-K and significantly heavier.

Who Are Solidion Technology?

Solidion Technology specialises in the production of advanced battery materials and next-generation batteries for applications across land, air, and sea. The company is recognised globally for its innovation in high-capacity anodes and solid-state battery technologies.

Solidion’s batteries promise extended EV range, enhanced safety, cost efficiency, and an environmentally conscious approach by using sulphur and other readily available materials instead of costly nickel and cobalt.

We Recycle Lithium EV Batteries

At Lithium Cycle, we are dedicated to the responsible recycling of lithium EV batteries. By repurposing valuable materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, we reduce waste and minimise the need for new raw materials, contributing to a cleaner, circular economy.

Our reuse and recycling process not only helps meet the growing demand for lithium but also supports environmental stewardship by reducing the carbon footprint of battery production. Our team aims to make EV technology more sustainable from production through end-of-life, ensuring that each battery produced can contribute positively to a greener future.

The Arkansas Lithium Discovery

Kallipso Mais on October 23, 2024

The Arkansas Lithium Discovery

At A Glance...

5 – 19 Million Tons of Lithium Found In Southern Arkansas

A significant discovery of lithium in Arkansas has recently garnered attention due to its potential to transform the lithium supply chain.

It is said that there may be 5.1 million to 19 million tons of lithium in the Smackover Formation brines in southern Arkansas, said researchers at the United States Geological Survey. This number was calculated using a machine-learning model and geological information that predicted maps of lithium concentration.

The discovery, if recoverable, could far exceed the projected world demand for EV batteries in 2030.

“We estimate there is enough dissolved lithium present in that region to replace U.S. imports of lithium and more,” said Katherine Knierim, a hydrologist and the study’s principal researcher.

Lithium Demand and Arkansas Findings: What Does This Mean?

The increasing demand for lithium, driven primarily by the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, has intensified the search for local sources of this crucial element.

Currently, most lithium is sourced from countries like Australia and Chile, and the U.S. is heavily reliant on imports. However, the discovery in Arkansas could reduce U.S. dependence on foreign lithium and provide a critical domestic source for battery production.

Arkansas’ lithium is found in brine reservoirs deep underground. Companies like Standard Lithium are pioneering direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies, which are seen as more sustainable because they use existing brine-processing infrastructure while reducing land disturbance and water usage.

We Recycle Lithium Batteries For Businesses

As the global demand for lithium surges, recycling lithium-ion batteries has become an essential component of sustainable energy practices. Recycling can reduce pressure on lithium supply, minimise waste, and support the growing battery demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

Many businesses are stepping up efforts to recycle old batteries, recognising the importance of closing the loop on this critical resource.

This recent discovery and the subsequent developments could position Arkansas as a key player in the future of lithium supply, particularly in the race to meet the needs of the electric vehicle market.

Why Is Energy Storage Beneficial To Sustainability?

Kallipso Mais on October 23, 2024

Why Is Energy Storage Beneficial To Sustainability?

At A Glance...

The global energy storage market almost tripled in 2023. Energy storage is a game-changer for sustainability. Why? Becuase it helps us make the most of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which aren’t always available when we need them most.

The sun doesn’t shine at night, and wind can be unpredictable, but energy storage systems allow us to store excess energy when it’s plentiful and use it later when demand is high.

By storing this energy, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and stabilise electricity grids with a cleaner, more reliable power supply. It also helps balance energy loads, preventing waste during times of surplus and lowering overall energy costs by reducing the need for peak-time electricity from traditional sources.

Energy storage systems also support a more resilient grid, providing backup power during outages or emergencies, making sure that even if the grid fails, there’s a stored energy supply ready to step in. This is particularly crucial for critical infrastructure like hospitals, data centres, and emergency services.

4 Reasons Energy Storage Benefits Sustainability

Maximises Renewable Energy Use

Energy storage allows us to capture and store excess power generated from solar and wind sources, making clean energy available on back-up.

Reduces Fossil Fuel Reliance

By storing renewable energy, we can reduce the need for backup power from fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner power supply.

Stabilises Electricity Grid

Energy storage helps smooth out fluctuations in supply and demand, ensuring consistent power availability. This reduces strain on the grid and prevents wasteful energy spikes.

Supports Energy Reliance

During power outages or emergencies, energy storage systems can step in to provide backup power, making communities more self-reliant and less vulnerable to disruptions in traditional energy supplies.

Materials Can Be Recycled

When it comes to energy storage, the concern about battery waste is real, but there’s good news: batteries can be recycled! Specifically, lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in energy storage systems, can be broken down and valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be recovered. This helps minimise waste, reduce the need for new resource extraction, and cut down on the environmental impact of mining.

Recycling batteries also ensures that hazardous materials don’t end up in landfills, which protects ecosystems from potential contamination. Companies like ours provide specialised recycling services to responsibly dispose of these batteries and give them a second life.

So while batteries do have a limited lifespan, their materials don’t have to go to waste—they can be reused in new energy storage systems, helping create a more sustainable cycle.

Solid-State Battery Technology

Kallipso Mais on October 22, 2024

Solid-State Battery Technology

At A Glance...

As global industries continue to push for clean energy solutions, advancements in battery technology play a pivotal role in the transition toward a sustainable future.

One of the most groundbreaking innovations is solid-state battery technology. Unlike the conventional liquid-state lithium-ion batteries that have dominated the energy storage space for decades, solid-state batteries promise greater efficiency.

Solid-state battery applications in the electric vehicle sector are forecast to grow exponentially in the next decade, reaching a market size of 4.3 billion U.S. dollars by 2032.

What Are Solid-State Batteries?

Solid-state batteries are a next-generation energy storage solution that replaces the liquid or gel electrolytes found in conventional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte. This seemingly small change has profound impacts on the performance and safety of the battery.

Key characteristics of solid-state batteries include:

Increased Energy Density: Solid-state batteries can hold more energy in the same space compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This means longer-lasting power for devices such as electric vehicles (EVs) and consumer electronics.
Improved Safety: The use of a solid electrolyte reduces the risk of leakage and overheating, which are significant safety concerns with lithium-ion batteries that use flammable liquid electrolytes.
Extended Battery Life: Due to reduced degradation over time, solid-state batteries could potentially last much longer than their lithium-ion counterparts, making them more durable and cost-effective in the long run.

Solid-State and Lithium Batteries

One of the most significant differences between conventional lithium-ion and solid-state batteries is the composition of materials used. While lithium is still a crucial component in solid-state batteries, other materials, such as advanced ceramics or glass electrolytes, may also be integrated into the design.

Solid-state batteries are designed to last longer and degrade more slowly than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This extended lifespan will lead to longer intervals between battery replacements, potentially reducing the volume of battery waste generated annually. While this could reduce short-term demand for recycling, it could lead to more valuable materials being recovered when solid-state batteries eventually reach the end of their life cycle.

How Battery Energy Storage Systems Work

Kallipso Mais on October 22, 2024

How Battery Energy Storage Systems Work

At A Glance...

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) work by storing energy to be released for later use.
BESS use lithium-ion batteries to store the energy and release it when required.
New battery energy storage system (BESS) installations worldwide added up to 74 gigawatt-hours in 2023, up from 27 gigawatt-hours a year earlier.

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) work by storing energy to be released for later use. These energy storage systems often use lithium-ion batteries to store the energy and release it when required.

They’re the go-to solution for storing energy from renewable sources like solar and wind because they’re efficient, reliable, and capable of storing large amounts of stored electricity.

The electricity gets stored in these giant, rechargeable batteries and is released to power homes, businesses, or even entire electricity grids when demand spikes or during a power outage. New battery energy storage system (BESS) installations worldwide added up to 74 gigawatt-hours in 2023, up from 27 gigawatt-hours a year earlier.

What Are Battery Energy Storage Systems Used For?

Security Monitoring

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are used to support critical monitoring systems like security systems, smoke detectors, and even medical equipment. These systems require a reliable, uninterrupted power supply to function effectively, and that’s where battery storage comes in.

For security systems, BESS ensures that surveillance cameras, alarms, and monitoring devices continue to operate even during a power outage. Since security systems are crucial for protecting businesses, having a backup power supply in the form of a battery is essential to avoid any downtime.

Medical Equipment

For medical equipment, especially in hospitals or for at-home patient care, reliable power is critical. BESS can store energy supplies and kick in during emergencies, providing a dependable energy source until regular power is restored.

Solar Energy

Imagine a sunny day when your solar panels are producing more energy than your house can use. Instead of letting that energy go to waste, a BESS allows you to store energy for use later—like when the sun goes down or clouds roll in. It’s the ultimate energy storage solution for ensuring you have a consistent power supply, even when your renewable energy sources aren’t producing at full capacity.

Electricity

On a large scale, BESS are used by utility companies to keep the grid running smoothly. When there’s too much energy being produced, say, during high winds or sunny days, the excess energy gets stored in these systems. Then, during peak hours when energy demand shoots up, the battery storage system releases its stored electricity back into the grid. This process not only prevents waste but also helps lower overall energy costs by providing electricity when it’s needed most. In emergency situations like a power outage, BESS can be lifesavers by ensuring backup energy supplies are available to keep everything running.

Why Are Lithium-Ion Batteries Used For Energy Storage Systems?

So, why do we love lithium-ion batteries for energy storage? Well, for starters, they have a high energy density, meaning they can pack a lot of power into a relatively small space. This makes them perfect for both residential and large scale battery storage applications. Another major plus is that they’re incredibly efficient at cycling energy—charging and discharging—without losing much of their capacity. That means they can store electricity and release it over and over again, making them a reliable choice for both short-term and long-term energy storage.

Lithium-ion batteries are also pretty versatile, able to handle both the short bursts of energy needed to smooth out fluctuations in electricity grids, as well as the longer, sustained output.

Since they’re commonly used in everything from solar and wind energy systems to electric vehicles, their production has scaled up, making them more affordable.

Can You Recycle These Batteries?

Absolutely! And this is where we come in. While lithium-ion batteries are fantastic for storing energy, they do eventually reach the end of their lifecycle. But instead of ending up in a landfill, these batteries can—and should—be recycled.

By recycling lithium-ion batteries used in energy storage systems, valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be recovered and reused to make new batteries. This not only reduces the environmental impact of mining for new resources but also keeps hazardous materials out of our ecosystems.

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling batteries from energy storage systems, ensuring that the life of your energy storage solution doesn’t end when the battery does.