Europe took a different tack. The Eurobat Guide for the Specification of Valve Regulated Lead-Acid Stationary Cells and Batteries defines design life as follows: “The design life is the estimated life determined under laboratory conditions, and is quoted at 20°C using the manufacturer’s recommended float voltage conditions.” 6
The targets for recycling efficiency of lead-acid batteries are increased, and new targets for lithium batteries are introduced, in light of the importance of lithium for the battery value chain. In addition, specific recovery targets for valuable materials – cobalt, lithium, lead and nickel – are set to be achieved by 2025 and 2030.
The Regulation entered into force on 17 August 2023 and repeals the Batteries Directive (Directive 2006/66/EC). It continues to restrict the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries and introduces a restriction for lead in portable batteries. It also aims to: reduce environmental and social impacts throughout the entire battery life cycle.
IEEE 450 and 1188 prescribe best industry practices for maintaining a lead-acid stationary battery to optimize life to 80% of rated capacity. Thus it is fair to state that the definition for reliability of a stationary lead-acid battery is that it is able to deliver at least 80% of its rated capacity.
Many organizations have established standards that address lead-acid battery safety, performance, testing, and maintenance. Standards are norms or requirements that establish a basis for the common understanding and judgment of materials, products, and processes.
It is accepted industry practice that a battery is considered “good” or reliable as long as it can deliver ≥80% of its rated capacity 1. IEEE 450 and 1188 prescribe best industry practices for maintaining a lead-acid stationary battery to optimize life to 80% of rated capacity.