The US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory developed a sleeping battery that solves seasonal power generation problems.
The battery is made with an electric conductor, or electrolytes, that can be chilled when excess renewable energy is abundant, then thawed when power is needed. The process involves charging the battery by heating, allowing ions to flow through the liquid electrolyte and create energy. Then, the battery is cooled to solidify the electrolytes and lock in energy. When power is needed, the battery is reheated, and the energy flows.
The system can store power for months and lay idle without losing a significant amount of capacity. It is also transportable and designed to be used on a periodic basis.
Will this hibernating battery become a viable solution to seasonal power problems, or will more eco-friendly alternatives come out as winners? Please comment your thoughts below.