Finding new ways to store low-carbon energy is a crucial step toward ending our dependence on fossil fuels. Here are five innovative and promising battery storage solutions that could help us create a zero-net-emissions future.
- Batteries without rare metals for cars of the future
In the United States, chemists at MIT have developed a lithium-ion battery cathode based on organic materials that could reduce the electric vehicle industry’s dependence on rare metals such as cobalt and lithium. This material is made from multiple layers of TAQ (bis-tetra amino benzoquinone), a small organic molecule. Tests showed that the compound’s conductivity and storage capacity were comparable to those of conventional batteries containing cobalt. More information
- A mobile energy production system
The Californian firm Moxion has created a new mobile battery energy storage system (BESS) it calls MP‑75. This system is designed for mobile, autonomous and hybrid energy production, for example on construction sites, at outdoor events, or for charging electric vehicles. It is silent, produces no toxic emissions, provides 75 kW of power and stores more than 600 kWh of energy. It requires zero maintenance, with replaceable batteries ensuring a continuous supply of power. More information
- A sand battery for storing renewable energy at minimal cost
Finland’s Vatajankoski electric power plant is home to the world’s first commercial-scale sand battery. Housed in an insulated steel container seven metres tall, the battery contains 100 tonnes of low-quality construction sand, two urban heating pipes and a fan. The sand becomes a battery on being heated to 600 °C using electricity produced by the power plant’s wind turbines and solar panels. This battery, designed by Polar Night Energy, stores 8 MWh of thermal energy when full and can also be used to supply heating and hot water to around 100 homes and a public swimming pool. More information
- A conversion kit to make vehicles 100% electric
In order to convert existing corporate vehicle fleets of cars and trucks into 100% electric vehicles, the American company Evolectric has developed technology to help businesses both large and small reduce their operating costs and comply with environmental regulations. Its CircularEV™ conversion kits are environmentally friendly, of course, but they are also affordable, with a price 45% lower than for new electric vehicles. Maintenance costs are also reduced by at least 50%, with vehicle life extended by at least 10 years. More information
- A high-power outdoor battery station
The Station is an outdoor 200 kWh all-in-one battery pack designed by American company Posh. Equipped with an integrated 5 kW active-air-cooling HVAC system, this device is well suited to energy demand management and backup power applications. The Station uses lithium-iron-phosphate batteries and offers maximum power of 207 kWh. More information
01/16/2025
