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.

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.

Are vanadium electrolytes reusable?

In addition to the vanadium electrolyte being infinitely reusable, the balance of Invinity’s VFB is made almost entirely of common materials, like steel and household plastics, that can be easily recycled. There are large vanadium resources in the U.S. At present, 90% of the supply goes into steel manufacture.

What are the commercial applications of V Flow batteries?

There are presently commercial applications of V flow batteries. The focus is on commercial/industrial applications that are offsetting peak tariff periods, a fair bit in grid-scale generation, and also standalone microgrids where individuals want to be off-grid all the time or during power outages.

How many oxidation states can a vanadium ion have?

Vanadium is an element that can commonly exist in four different oxidation states. That just means that it can exist as an ion with different charges. For example, a vanadium ion that is missing three electrons would have a charge of V 3+. If you add an electron to it, it converts to a V 2+ ion.