The recent IPCC report shows the world is not responding quickly enough to the climate crisis. We need to see accelerated deployment of renewables and energy storage. Lead batteries are not only a proven, cost-effective energy storage technology, but also available immediately.
The pressure to move quickly and speed up implementing the plan has been underlined by the International Energy Agency’s prediction that greenhouse gas emissions are on target to reach record levels by 2023 – potentially placing any hope of achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement out of reach.
Keeping global temperature rises below 1.5C will require a huge and rapid uplift in battery energy storage, supporting everything from renewables to multi-battery systems in electric vehicles.
One of the ‘Fit for 55’ priorities is to boost electricity from renewable sources and increase grid resiliency and flexibility, all of which point to advanced lead batteries supporting a range of systems.
As an established global value chain, from manufacturing capability to recycling, lead batteries can be deployed in large numbers, safely and sustainably.
Ongoing research led by the Consortium for Battery Innovation is already driving innovation and the creation of new generation lead-based technology focused on plugging in renewables and facilitating grid storage. With some of the leading universities in Europe and through partnerships in the US, this research will feed into new advanced lead batteries supporting climate-neutral policy aims.
Across Europe for example, advanced lead batteries are providing reliable, sustainable energy for installations spanning community microgrids, solar farms for manufacturing plants, and utility grid frequency regulation. And they continue to provide an essential onboard element for e-mobility as the transition to hybrid and electric vehicles gathers pace.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to increasing battery energy storage. All batteries will be critical for the rapid shift to a low-carbon future. Different technologies offer advantages for different applications. Battery technologies are vast and diverse.
For the established lead battery value chain, the ability to manufacture at scale is a key capability, alongside ongoing high-performance, reliability, safety, and a sustainability profile including almost 100% recycling at end-of-life in Europe and the United States.
Lead batteries will be a significant technology supporting the EU Green Deal and worldwide greenhouse gas reduction policy initiatives. As a technology, it is essential today and fit for a carbon-neutral future.
Originally published by the Consortium for Battery Innovation.
Read more on how the future of Europe’s 5G power relies on lead battery innovation.
