The transition to renewable energy is essential to reach net zero by 2050. But as we steer towards a future powered by renewable energy sources, we also create new dependencies. One of them is Lithium-ion batteries, which play a crucial role in the renewable energy value chain. Read about why we need to cut our lithium-ion dependency for more sustainable batteries.
Why are we dependent on Lithium-ion batteries?
Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are unpredictable by nature and need efficient storage solutions for a steady power supply. Lithium-ion batteries store excess energy generated during peak production periods, stabilize electrical grids, and reduce the need for less efficient (and expensive) peaker plants that use fossil fuels. As more households install solar panels in the hope of becoming self-reliant, batteries also enable homeowners to store solar panel-generated renewable energy for later use. Today, most people use lithium-ion batteries in some shape or form: you can find them in most rechargeable electronic devices such as your laptop or phone.
Another industry reliant on batteries is electrical vehicles (EVs) – which play a key part in the transition to more sustainable transportation. Just like with renewables, EVs give back to the grid through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, turning parked cars into mobile energy assets.
So why are lithium-ion not sustainable batteries after all?
Today, lithium-ion batteries are popular due to their ability to store large amounts of energy relative to their weight. Sadly, as the demand for lithium-ion batteries grows, so does the scrutiny of the supply chain. This is particularly true in the mining process, which is often polluting and energy-intensive. The extraction process is notoriously water-intensive, raising environmental concerns and straining local areas, often already grappling with water drought.
Adding to the challenge are the limitations of graphite, commonly used as the anode material in lithium-ion batteries. The anode stores lithium ions during charging, and while graphite excels in rechargeability, its storage capacity falls short. As our demand for greater battery capacity soars, there’s a risk that graphite could become a bottleneck.
If that wasn’t enough, lithium-ion batteries are prone to catching fire, particularly as their energy density increases. With the rise in electric vehicle adoption, the push for a fast charging network grows. Yet, fast-charging high energy-density batteries amplify safety risks, underscoring the need for robust infrastructure and innovation.
Lithium-ion battery shortage predicted to hit as early as 2025
Supply chain issues, coupled with environmental and geopolitical concerns, have triggered a shortage in lithium-ion battery production. The recycling rate for lithium-ion batteries is also low and inefficient. There is a lack of efficient recycling infrastructure and collection systems and limitations in how to recover valuable materials efficiently
This has created a pressing need for alternative materials, with battery recycling technologies quickly becoming crucial to reduce environmental impact and address scarcity.
Read about the alternative battery energy storage solutions that have emerged to meet the increasing demand and reinvent raw materials and storage.
