Iron flow batteries have several significant advantages over lithium-ion batteries:
Longer Duration of Energy Storage
- Iron Flow Batteries: Capable of storing energy for up to 12 hours, with potential extension to 15 hours or more.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Typically limited to 4 hours for large-scale applications.
Longer Asset Life
- Iron Flow Batteries: Offer a 25-year design life and unlimited cycle life with no capacity degradation.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Generally have a 7-10 year lifespan and are limited to around 7,000 cycles.
Safety
- Iron Flow Batteries: Are non-flammable, non-toxic, and non-explosive, making them safer.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Are flammable and toxic, posing fire risks and requiring additional safety measures.
Environmental Sustainability
- Iron Flow Batteries: Use earth-abundant iron, reducing environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions compared to rare earth metals used in Li-ion batteries.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Depend on rare earth metals and have higher environmental risks, especially in disposal.
Cost and Efficiency
- Iron Flow Batteries: Have a competitive total cost of ownership over their long lifespan and can operate between -10°C and 50°C without cooling systems.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Require ventilation and cooling systems, increasing costs and complexity, though they have manufacturing efficiencies that lower their upfront cost.
Overall, iron flow batteries are better suited for utility-scale energy storage due to their long duration, safety, and environmental benefits.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-advantages-of-iron-flow-batteries-over-lithium-ion-batteries/
