Energy transition in the new era: The impact of renewable electric power on the life cycle assessment of automotive power batteries

Abstract

Amid escalating global concern for environmental issues, the advancement and utilization of renewable energy take on unprecedented importance. This study focuses on the field of electric vehicle power batteries. Through constructing a life cycle assessment model, integrating various types of renewable electrical energy and various battery recovery analysis scenarios, we explored the carbon footprint and environmental impact of Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese (NCM), Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), All Solid State Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese (A-NCM), and All Solid State Lithium Iron Phosphate (A-LFP) batteries in the context of China. The research reveals that using renewable electrical energy could reduce carbon emissions by 50%–70 % compared to traditional energy, while also significantly enhancing other environmental performance metrics, notably with hydropower. Solid-state batteries have a more substantial environmental impact during the production phase, approximately 27 % higher than similar lithium batteries, with NCM outpacing LFP. However, in the usage phase, NCM batteries, due to their unique structure, significantly mitigate energy losses compared to LFP batteries. The study also found that hydrometallurgical recycling had superior efficiency and environmental benefits in the recycling stage. Providing a scientific foundation for sustainable policies, this study promotes the enhancement of energy structures and battery recovery in the automotive industry.