While the performance of lithium batteries has increased tremendously, there’s still room for improvement to lower cost, increase sustainability, and maximize their impact on decarbonization. For solutions to reach their full potential, they need to be coupled with efficient energy storage technologies. The performance of Li-ion batteries has increased tremendously as a result of significant investments in R&D; energy density has tripled since 2008, while cost has reduced by close to 85%. Still, further research is needed to decrease levelised cost of energy, and ensure that the production and use of batteries do not generate a negative impact on the environment.
Find alternatives to scarce electrode materials to improve energy density and decrease the impact on the environment and society. Implement self-healing mechanisms to improve battery life. Develop more efficient manufacturing lines to decrease the cost.
These are just a few of the ways we can ensure the sustainability and commercial viability of battery systems. Additional technological, societal, and policy innovations would be necessary to accelerate the deployment of batteries that address our needs without generating an adverse effect on society or the environment.
Source: Energy Storage News
Name of Author: Marcos Ierides