The world’s largest sodium-ion battery system, capable of storing up to 100 MWh of electricity, has been connected to the grid in Qianjiang, China. This groundbreaking development by Datang Electric in Hubei Province uses batteries manufactured by HiNa Battery and is set to reduce carbon emissions by 13,000 tons annually.
Unlike lithium-ion batteries commonly used in electronic devices and electric vehicles, sodium-ion batteries offer significant advantages for large-scale energy storage. They are more abundant, easier to obtain, scalable, safer, and perform well in extreme temperatures. This makes them a promising alternative for renewable energy storage, especially in harsh environments where lithium-ion batteries may face issues like fire risk and suboptimal performance.
The ability to store electricity for later use is crucial in ensuring stability and reliability as we transition towards renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Systems like the sodium-ion battery in Qianjiang will play a significant role in this transition, contributing to a greener future and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. With plans to increase its storage capacity to 200 MWh in the next phase, the Qianjiang facility is set to further strengthen its position as a leader in renewable energy storage.
