Why develop vanadium energy storage enterprises

Which energy storage projects are incorporating vanadium flow batteries?

The CEC selected four energy storage projects incorporating vanadium flow batteries (“VFBs”) from North America and UK-based Invinity Energy Systems plc. The four sites are all commercial or industrial facilities that want to self-generate power (like solar) and in some cases have the ability to operate off-grid.

What is a vanadium flow battery?

The vanadium flow battery (VFB) as one kind of energy storage technique that has enormous impact on the stabilization and smooth output of renewable energy. Key materials like membranes, electrode, and electrolytes will finally determine the performance of VFBs.

Why is vanadium a problem?

However, as the grid becomes increasingly dominated by renewables, more and more flow batteries will be needed to provide long-duration storage. Demand for vanadium will grow, and that will be a problem. “Vanadium is found around the world but in dilute amounts, and extracting it is difficult,” says Rodby.

Where do vanadium batteries come from?

There are large vanadium resources in the U.S. At present, 90% of the supply goes into steel manufacture. So, steel-producing regions like China are currently the largest producers of vanadium. In conclusion, Matt acknowledged that Li-ion batteries have proven that energy storage can be profitable, and VFBs have benefitted from the progress.

Is vanadium in a supply deficit?

Vanadium producers have recently benefited from an increase in infrastructure spending. However, the demand for vanadium also continues to increase with other applications, including in the aerospace industry and the production of vanadium redox batteries. Various supply-demand forecasts have vanadium in a supply deficit starting around 2025.

Could a vanadium flow battery help balance intermittent generation?

Chemical storage is also commanding an increasing amount of attention, as the UK’s share of renewables continues to grow. Invinity’s vanadium flow battery (VFB) technology is one of the technologies that could potentially step up to help balance surging intermittent generation.