Are lithium ion batteries a good option?

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries were not always a popular option. They used to be ruled out quickly due to their high cost. For a long time, lead-acid batteries dominated the energy storage systems (ESS) market. They were more reliable and cost-effective.

Are lithium ion batteries safe?

They feature both strong energy and power density, and they are relatively safe compared to other types of lithium-ion batteries when it comes to thermal runaways. However, they offer a significantly lower number of life cycles compared to LFP batteries, generally between 1,000 and 2,000 cycles.

How long do lithium ion batteries last?

Lithium-ion batteries reach their end of life when they can only retain 70% to 80% of their capacity. The best lithium-ion batteries can function properly for as many as 10,000 cycles while the worst only last for about 500 cycles.

Are LFP batteries the future of energy storage?

Tesla CEO Elon Musk says he expects all stationary energy storage products will embrace LFP battery chemistry and make the transition. LFP batteries have a lower power density, but this characteristic is less important for energy storage systems than it is for EVs, as ESS can occupy larger spaces without concern.

What are the best batteries for ESS?

LFP batteries are the best types of batteries for ESS. They provide cleaner energy since LFPs use iron, which is a relatively green resource compared to cobalt and nickel. Iron is also cheaper and more available than many other resources, helping reduce costs. The overall production cost is lower as well.