Batteries That Can Be a Game Changer For the Grid

"Non-toxic, low-cost, safe, reliable, fast-discharge rates and high-energy densities…" These are the words in 2012 that come from the CUNY Energy Institute of The City College of New York regarding an operating prototype zinc anode battery system that, according to the CUNY Institute, became a part of large-scale commercialization program in the same year.

Zinc Anode Batteries:

Compared to nickel cadmium batteries, zinc anode batteries are more earth-friendly and more cost-effective and are projected to replace lead-acid batteries. During lab research, one challenge of the zinc anode batteries was the tendency for this type of battery to lend itself toward dendrite formation associated with the zinc. Dendrites are crystalline growths that can contribute to batteries shorting out. The challenge was addressed by developing a flow-assisted zinc anode with a complex and radical battery management system that could control the charge/discharge procedure.

The applications for the zinc anode batteries range from peak-electricity-demand reduction to grid-scale energy storage all wrapped up in an initial 36 kilowatt-hour rechargeable battery system. The 36kWh system is being expanded to provide 300 kWh.

Initially, this zinc anode battery was designed for $300-$500 per kWh but that has been lowered to $200 per kWh. With a 2-year payback period, industrial facilities and expansive, commercial properties will be able to use the battery system to help cut energy costs; and the battery system is intended to replace nickel-cadmium batteries in businesses that are already set up to use battery systems. When less power is generated, fewer emissions enter the atmosphere from power plants.

Enticing Advantages:

The battery system has been housed in the basement of the research facility building, Steinman Hall, on the grounds of The City College of New York. The system comprises 36 separate one-kWh nickel-zinc, flow-assisted cells wound together and operated by the battery management system. Operationally, during peak electricity demand reduction, the batteries will charge (such as overnight) and discharge during peak-demand periods when surcharges for power usage are high.

One great advantage of this battery technology is their ability to provide between 5,000 to 10,000 charge cycles with a life expectancy of up to ten years. Traditionally, part of the challenge of setting up a rechargeable battery system is the fact that they eventually burn out and need replacing.

According to the battery system's researchers, the zinc anode method meets more than 30% of Steinman Hall's peak-demand power requirements, which equates to a whopping $6,000 savings per month – that's quite impressive! Additional usage involves an experimental manufacturing company within close proximity of the City College Campus.

After It's All Said And Done…

A long-term zinc anode battery system doesn't only contribute to daytime energy costs, but it's more environmentally-friendly than lead-based or nickel-cadmium batteries, and that's just plain good for our planet. Additionally, zinc anode batteries are less expensive to buy and install.

According to CUNY Energy Institute researcher, Sanjoy Banerjee, the advantages are promising and exciting: "This is affordable, rechargeable electricity storage made from cheap, non-toxic materials that are inherently safe. The entire Energy Institute has worked on these batteries-stacking electrodes, mounting terminals, connecting to the inverters-and they are going to be a game-changer for the electric grid!"

Editor's Note: As the operations manager for a web marketing company, Daniel labors as a posting visitor in order to service the business sector from the U.S.A. e.g. Don Rowe. He works in L.A. and is relishing these days alongside his special better half and their 3 rug rats.