RENEWCONNECT - All about renewables & power sector

Short-Term Energy Storage Systems (STES)  are designed to store energy for  minutes to a few hours , typically  less than 6 hours . These systems are crucial for  grid balancing ,  frequency regulation , and  bridging short gaps  in energy supply and demand. ⚡ Key Characteristics of STES Fast response time  (milliseconds to seconds). High efficiency  (often >90%). Used for short-duration applications  like peak shaving, load shifting, and backup power. Common in renewable integration  to smooth out fluctuations from solar and wind. 🔋 Main Technologies in STES Lithium-Ion Batteries Most widely used. High energy density and efficiency. Suitable for residential, commercial, and grid-scale use. Lifespan: ~10 years. Supercapacitors (Ultracapacitors) Extremely fast charge/discharge cycles. Low energy density but high power density. Ideal for...

As the world accelerates toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, two technologies have emerged as frontrunners in the race to decarbonize transportation and energy systems:  hydrogen fuel cells  and  battery electric systems . Both offer compelling advantages and face significant challenges. But which of these will ultimately power the future? This article explores the technological, economic, environmental, and infrastructural dimensions of hydrogen and battery technologies, offering a comprehensive comparison to help understand their roles in shaping tomorrow’s energy landscape. The Basics: How Do They Work? Battery Electric Systems Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) use  lithium-ion batteries  to store electricity, which powers an electric motor. These batteries are charged via the electrical grid, either at home or through public charging stations. The process is direct and efficient, with energy conversion rates reaching up to  90...

Sustainable methods of battery recycling are essential for reducing environmental impact and conserving valuable resources. Here are some key sustainable approaches: 1. Hydrometallurgical Recycling Process : Involves using aqueous solutions to selectively dissolve and extract valuable metals from the battery. This method allows for the recovery of materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel without high energy consumption. Advantages : Lower environmental impact compared to pyrometallurgy, and can recover high-purity metals. 2. Pyrometallurgical Recycling Process : Involves smelting batteries at high temperatures to recover metals like cobalt, nickel, and copper. The process separates valuable metals from other materials that may be less recoverable. Advantages : Can handle large volumes of batteries and is widely used, especially for cobalt recovery. Challenges : Energy-intensive and can produce emissions. 3. Direct Recycling (ReLith Process) Process : This method focuses on directly r...

There are different types of battery technologies present in the current market. Energy density vary from type to type. Considering some of the key factors help in improving the efficiency battery and its life. Following are the key areas where developments are needed in the battery technology can improve the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs): Energy density: Increasing the energy density of a battery pack will allow for a longer driving range on a single charge. This can be achieved through the development of new electrode materials and cell designs. Charging time: Reducing the time required to charge a battery pack is crucial for the widespread adoption of EVs. This can be achieved through the development of new charging technologies and the use of higher voltage charging systems. Cost: Reducing the cost of battery packs is crucial for the affordability of EVs. This can be achieved through the development of new manufacturing processes and the use of more cost-eff...

Energy storage refers to the capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time. This process allows for greater flexibility and reliability in managing energy supply, particularly with the increasing use of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are intermittent in nature. Energy storage systems can store energy in various forms, such as electrical, thermal, chemical, mechanical, and gravitational energy. Types of Energy Storage: Battery Storage : Lithium-Ion Batteries : The most common type of battery storage, widely used in electric vehicles (EVs) and grid storage. They offer high energy density, efficiency, and a long lifecycle. Lead-Acid Batteries : An older technology, still used in some stationary applications, but less efficient and with a shorter lifespan than lithium-ion. Flow Batteries : Store energy in liquid electrolytes, offering scalability and long discharge times, ideal for large-scale energy storage. Pumped Hydro Storage : Uses gravitational p...