Lead-batteries can be ‘genuine market competitors’ in behind-the-meter (BtM) applications, states a new report commissioned by the Consortium for Battery Innovation (CBI) and the International Lead Association (ILA).
The technology has the potential to secure up to 30% of the EV infrastructure market by 2035, states the report by industry advisory firm KPMG.
More that 30% of new BtM projects in emerging economies could also use lead batteries to support the deployment of renewable energy at utility-scale, particularly in India.
The conclusions were reported in ‘Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) 2035 Market Outlook and Opportunities’. The report was launched at the global lead conference Pb2025.
The predictions were made because of a lead battery’s inherent benefits over other market leading chemistries. Namely safety, recyclability (~90% of lead batteries are recycled) and cost (a key factor in emerging markets such as India and Africa).
However, the report states all electrochemical technologies will have a part to play in the future Energy Storage System (ESS) market. This is especially true in Europe which needs storage to meet its growth in renewable energy.
Dr Alistair Davidson, Executive Director of the Consortium for Battery Innovation said: “It’s clear that we need an eco-system of battery technologies and capabilities in Europe to help meet the demand for battery energy storage. One size does not fit all.
“This report demonstrates that lead batteries are particularly suited to behind the meter applications, microgrids and grid stabilisation projects.
“The EU benefits from investments in new and existing battery technologies and it must continue to nurture both manufacturing capability and raw material security to meet its electrification and low carbon objectives.”
The report estimates up to 48% of global electricity supply will come for renewables in 2035. This will drive demand for a range of battery chemistries used in grid-to residential-scale EESs. This will help to avoid large-scale grid failures caused by issues such as grid destabilisation.
Report author, Chihab Boucheffa, KPMG’s Strategy Consultant, said: “Decision-makers need to ensure they have the right mix of battery technologies available to them to smooth the transition, manage the increased load on the grid, and avoid the kind of disruption we have seen in Spain.”
An executive summary of the report is available on the Consortium for Battery Innovation website.
