Areas of application for second life batteries
- home energy storage: as solar power systems become more popular in private homes, these batteries can be used to store energy generated during the day for subsequent use at peak load times. In this way, homeowners can maximize their self-consumption of renewable energy and reduce their dependence on the power grid.
- Commercial and industrial applications: 2nd Life batteries can be used in commercial and industrial environments, such as data centers and manufacturing plants. Here they can help to balance fluctuations in energy demand, absorb power peaks, or reduce electricity costs.
Advantages and challenges
The use of 2nd Life batteries offers several benefits, including potential cost savings as well as reduced environmental impact. Battery analytics plays a critical role in identifying and exploiting the untapped potential of 2nd Life batteries. Battery reuse can conserve valuable resources and minimize the environmental footprint associated with battery production.
However, challenges such as battery aging and ensuring compatibility with different applications must be considered. Therefore, a careful analysis of batteries before their 2nd life is essential. Battery analytics helps address these challenges and can be used to determine the health of the battery. By using specialized testing techniques and algorithms, the battery's current condition, available power, and degradation patterns can be assessed. This data-driven approach makes it possible to assess remaining capacity, identify optimal applications, and predict remaining battery life.
What is VDE Renewables doing in the field of 2nd life batteries and battery analytics?
As part of the funded project "EMILAS", we have analyzed the topic of 2nd Life of batteries and prepared initial measures for the evaluation of batteries and necessary fire protection measures. In addition, our experts participate in the DKE working group 371.1.14 (Stationary use of lithium-ion batteries from the automotive sector, including 2nd life applications). A preliminary standard has already been developed on the subject of "repurposing of vehicle batteries" by this group. We offer analyses on standards and market access conditions and support you in the technical implementation of your products to increase both their safety and reliability.
In addition, we can offer you various battery testing services, such as a battery health check to determine whether the batteries are suitable for a possible 2nd life application or should be sent for recycling. The testing technology provides detailed information about the state of health (SoH) of your battery, as well as the current capacity and internal resistance. The measurement is non-invasive and provides the essential parameters of the electrical circuit.
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