Up until now, vanadium flow batteries have been primarily used in larger utility systems. Forever Energy’s mixed acid electrolyte chemistry allows vanadium flow batteries to be built with double the energy density of prior generation single acid flow batteries. The result is a 10 kW residential sized battery. Aggregated batteries are used for larger projects.
The FE vanadium flow battery has been tested (full charge and discharge) equating to a lifetime of at least 30 years with no degradation. Comparable testing of lithium batteries shows degradation and a 7-year lifespan. Vanadium flow batteries are a proven technology, first developed in the 1980’s in Australia.
The United States Government’s Pacific Northwest National Lab (PNNL) developed the mixed acid electrolyte used in Forever Energy’s vanadium flow battery. The electrolyte is the key to creating an advanced battery that outperforms lithium and prior generation vanadium flow batteries.
Over the thirty-year life of an FEv residential solar+storage system, homeowners will only need a single Forever Energy battery to supply nearly 100 percent of their home’s power, plus charging for multiple electric vehicles. Current popular lithium battery based solar storage systems would require twelve batteries over the same period; replaced every six to eight years.
FLOW BATTERY 101
The FEv battery is easily housed outside, and yet small enough to put in the side yard of a home. The battery is safe, non-flammable, has a 30-year life and does not degrade with use. The battery is UL1973 and CE certified and factory tested prior to installation.
Chemical energy stored within fluids is called “electrolyte.”
The electrolyte contains mostly water, some vanadium, and two acids (inherently safe).
Storage of the electrolyte is provided by internal tanks.
Pumps circulate electrolyte fluids in two parallel closed loops.
An electrochemical cell reversibly converts electrical energy to chemical energy.
DC current collected from the flow cell is converted to AC using an inverter if needed.
MAJOR ADVANTAGES OVER
LITHIUM BATTERY
The vanadium battery is robust and reliable.
No degradation
30-year lifespan
No Fire Risk
Unlimited Cycles
No Capacity Fade
Fully Recyclable
Made from the earth’s abundant materials
Longest lasting
Takes up less space for comparable storage