A breakthrough in battery technology may have finally arrived, offering a safer, more affordable, and longer-lasting alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
The creators of CERENERGY solid-state technology claim that their units outperform traditional batteries without the risks of fire or explosions. This innovation is the result of a collaborative effort between Altech Batteries in Australia and Germany’s Fraunhofer, and it could significantly enhance the storage capacity of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and tidal power farms.
The search for improved energy storage methods has been ongoing, with sustainable energy companies exploring various approaches. One notable project in California repurposes old electric vehicle (EV) batteries to store solar energy. However, CERENERGY researchers assert that a superior battery technology will greatly enhance storage capabilities. Their planned battery factory aims to produce 10,000 modules annually, marking the final phase of industrial product development for global commercialization.
The CERENERGY battery’s development spanned a decade and involved the use of inexpensive and abundant materials such as aluminum, salt, nickel, and ceramic. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, it does not rely on costly resources like lithium and cobalt, which are in high demand due to the growing popularity of EVs.
Moreover, the ethical concerns associated with mining these metals, particularly in regions like the Congo, further highlight the advantages of CERENERGY’s approach.
According to the researchers, CERENERGY batteries are 40% to 50% more cost-effective to manufacture compared to lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, Altech has provided a comprehensive list of advantages over traditional batteries, including a lifespan of over 15 years, the ability to function in extreme temperatures, and a guarantee of no explosions or fire hazards. These qualities make the CERENERGY battery highly suitable for large-scale power storage, exemplified by the operation of a pilot plant in Germany.
As the demand for renewable energy sources continues to grow, CERENERGY batteries have the capacity to play a pivotal role in meeting the storage needs of wind, solar, and tidal power farms worldwide.
