The most common type of battery used in energy storage systems is lithium-ion batteries. In fact, lithium-ion batteries make up 90% of the global grid battery storage market. A Lithium-ion battery is the type of battery that you are most likely to be familiar with. Lithium-ion batteries are used in cell phones and laptops.
Energy storage systems have become widely accepted as efficient ways of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and oftentimes, unreliable, utility providers. A battery energy storage system is the ideal way to capitalize on renewable energy sources, like solar energy.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2019 Energy Storage Technology and Cost Characterization Report, for a 4-hour energy storage system, lithium-ion batteries are the best option when you consider cost, performance, calendar and cycle life, and technology maturity.
On the other hand, The Energy Storage Association says lead-acid batteries can endure 5000 cycles to 70% depth-of-discharge, which provides about 15 years life when used intensively. The ESA says lead-acid batteries are a good choice for a battery energy storage system because they’re a cheaper battery option and are recyclable.
In the aerospace industry, lithium batteries are used to power a wide range of applications, including satellites, spacecraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The lightweight and high energy density of lithium batteries make them well-suited for use in space exploration and other aerospace applications, where every gram of weight matters.
Lead-acid batteries are the most widely used rechargeable battery technology in the world and have been used in energy storage systems for decades. Lead-acid batteries may be familiar to you since they are the most popular battery for vehicles. They have a shorter lifespan than other battery options, but are the least expensive.