Competitive situation of lithium battery energy storage

Will long-duration energy storage out-compete lithium-ion batteries?

New York/San Francisco, May 30, 2024 – Long-duration energy storage, or LDES, is rapidly garnering interest worldwide as the day it will out-compete lithium-ion batteries in some markets approaches and as decarbonization plans become more ambitious.

Can LDEs outcompete lithium-ion batteries?

Only a few LDES technologies, like natural cavern-based compressed air storage, can outcompete lithium-ion batteries in terms of per-unit capital costs today. LDES technologies have a better chance of competing with lithium-ion batteries in non-Chinese markets, where the lithium-ion batteries are more expensive.

What is the global market for lithium-ion batteries?

The global market for lithium-ion batteries is expanding rapidly. We take a closer look at new value chain solutions that can help meet the growing demand.

Are new battery chemistries a challenge to lithium-ion batteries?

Today lithium-ion batteries are a cornerstone of modern economies having revolutionised electronic devices and electric mobility, and are gaining traction in power systems. Yet, new battery chemistries being developed may pose a challenge to the dominance of lithium-ion batteries in the years ahead.

What will China's battery energy storage system look like in 2030?

In 2030, China could account for 40 percent of total Li-ion demand, with battery energy storage systems (BESS) having a CAGR of 30 percent. The GWh required to power these applications in 2030 will be comparable to the GWh needed for all applications today.

Will LDEs costs fall as fast as lithium-ion batteries?

Still, LDES costs are unlikely to fall as fast as those of lithium-ion batteries this decade, as lithium-ion batteries are extensively used in both the transport and power sectors, and this demand will drive down the cost of the technology. Figure 1: Fully installed energy storage system average capex and ranges by technology, 2018-2024*