The fully circular economy of which we all dream would ensure new purpose for everything we make. That’s important because this would in turn reduce our dependence on new raw materials, and cut back on carbon pollution. We therefore welcome progress as used EV batteries cycle to energy storage increasingly frequently. Especially because dismantling them is a challenge.
Old EV Batteries Cycle to Energy Storage Readily
There comes a point in every EV battery life when their capacity starts to fall below 80% of vehicle requirements. This gradual decline begins after 100,000 miles or eight years, although some batteries may last double the distance.
However, those same batteries still have a useful second life ahead of them, while industry finds ways to recycle their individual components. Their secondary purposes include:
1… Stationery energy storage systems for balancing peaks in utility grids.
2… Temporary, even portable energy storage for end user requirements.
3… Intermediary support between home generation and energy consumption.
Autocar says McKinsey found demand for used EV battery storage could top 200 billion watt-hours annually by 2030. By then, this market might be worth as much as 30 billion U.S dollars.
EV Makers Are Beginning to Think This Way
Autocar reported progress in this regard on April 11, 2022. They say Jaguar Land Rover are working ‘in partnership with energy storage systems specialist Pramac’. Apparently 85% of their original packs, including modules and wiring go into grid energy storage.
But that’s not the only way EV vehicle batteries are cycling to energy storage. Audi E-tron battery packs are already storing renewable energy from Hengsteysee reservoir at Herdecke, North Rhine-Westphalia.
Moreover, Nissan has an established process for repurposing used Leaf Batteries, and Skoda is not far behind. We are thrilled to know this part of the circular economy is finally coming true. The fight for a green economy must continue as our highest priority!
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