Substation battery options: present and future

Abstract

Whenever a new battery type is considered, it is important to use life-cycle cost analysis that weighs all costs associated with battery ownership over a certain period of time, including the replacement of shorter-life batteries and all associated maintenance and testing activities. This article discusses the benefits and drawbacks of some of the potential alternatives to vented lead-acid batteries in substation service. These include VRLA, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium polymer (Li-polymer). The aim of the article is to provide an overview of ongoing battery development work and an idea of the time-frame for commercial availability.