Are flow batteries a new technology?

You might believe that flow batteries are a new technology merely invented over the past few years. Actually, the development of flow batteries can be traced back to the 1970s when Lawrence Thaller at NASA created the first prototype of this battery type.

Are flow batteries scalable?

Scalability: One of the standout features of flow batteries is their inherent scalability. The energy storage capacity of a flow battery can be easily increased by adding larger tanks to store more electrolyte.

Are flow batteries a good choice for solar energy storage?

Flow batteries exhibit significant advantages over alternative battery technologies in several aspects, including storage duration, scalability and longevity, making them particularly well-suited for large-scale solar energy storage projects.

Are flow batteries a good choice for commercial applications?

But without question, there are some downsides that hinder their wide-scale commercial applications. Flow batteries exhibit superior discharge capability compared to traditional batteries, as they can be almost fully discharged without causing damage to the battery or reducing its lifespan.

Are flow batteries flammable?

Unlike some other types of batteries, flow batteries don't contain flammable electrolytes, which reduces the risk of fire or explosion. The design of flow battery storage systems allows for the storage tanks to be installed separately from the conducting cell membrane and power stack, further enhancing safety.

How long do flow batteries last?

Winner: Flow batteries If you cycle Li-ion batteries every day, you can expect them to last about only 8 years, whereas vanadium flow batteries can last up to 30 years. That’s mainly because there are no needed phase-to-phase chemical reactions in flow batteries.