A new type of battery developed by researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory could help integrate renewable energy sources into the power grid more effectively.
The battery, which uses sodium and aluminum instead of the typical lithium-ion technology, is being developed to improve grid resiliency and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
It has several advantages over other types of batteries, including its ability to store large amounts of energy for long periods of time. This makes it ideal for storing energy from wind turbines and solar panels, which can produce excess energy during peak times.
It is also more environmentally friendly than lithium-ion batteries. Sodium and aluminum are both non-toxic and can be easily recycled. Additionally, the battery does not require any rare earth metals, which are often associated with environmental and social concerns.
As renewable energy sources continue to grow in popularity, the need for reliable energy storage solutions will become increasingly important. This sodium-aluminum battery could play a key role in meeting this need, helping to create a more resilient and sustainable energy grid.