Are flow batteries worth the cost per kWh?

Naturally, the financial aspect will always be a compelling factor. However, the key to unlocking the potential of flow batteries lies in understanding their unique cost structure and capitalizing on their distinctive strengths. It’s clear that the cost per kWh of flow batteries may seem high at first glance.

What is a flow battery?

At their heart, flow batteries are electrochemical systems that store power in liquid solutions contained within external tanks. This design differs significantly from solid-state batteries, such as lithium-ion variants, where energy is enclosed within the battery unit itself.

How do you calculate a flow battery cost per kWh?

It’s integral to understanding the long-term value of a solution, including flow batteries. Diving into the specifics, the cost per kWh is calculated by taking the total costs of the battery system (equipment, installation, operation, and maintenance) and dividing it by the total amount of electrical energy it can deliver over its lifetime.

How long do flow batteries last?

Flow batteries also boast impressive longevity. In ideal conditions, they can withstand many years of use with minimal degradation, allowing for up to 20,000 cycles. This fact is especially significant, as it can directly affect the total cost of energy storage, bringing down the cost per kWh over the battery’s lifespan.

How much does a redox flow battery cost?

The purpose of this data-file is to build up the costs of redox flow batteries, starting from first principles, for Vanadium redox flow batteries. A 6-hour redox flow battery costing $3,000/kW would need to earn a storage spread of 20c/kWh to earn a 10% return with daily charging and discharging over a 30-year period of backstopping renewables.

Are flow batteries a cost-effective choice?

However, the key to unlocking the potential of flow batteries lies in understanding their unique cost structure and capitalizing on their distinctive strengths. It’s clear that the cost per kWh of flow batteries may seem high at first glance. Yet, their long lifespan and scalability make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.