Higher 2nd life Lithium Titanate battery content in hybrid energy storage systems lowers environmental-economic impact and balances eco-efficiency

Abstract

Energy exchange technologies will play an important role in the transition towards localised, sustainable energy supply. Hybrid energy storage systems, using different energy storage technologies, are currently under investigation to improve their technical performance and environmental sustainability. However, there is currently no exploration of the environmental benefits and economic feasibility of hybrid energy storage systems combining 1st and 2nd life batteries and battery electric vehicles. To determine the environmental and economic impacts of this type of hybrid energy storage system, this research employs a three-tier circularity assessment incorporating Life Cycle Assessment, Techno Economic Analysis and an Eco-Efficiency Index, from cradle-to-grave, of 43 techno-hybridisations of four 1st and 2nd life battery technologies; Lithium Titanate, Lead-acid, Lithium Iron Phosphate and Sodium-ion, with battery electric vehicles. The results of the life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis show that a hybrid energy storage system configuration containing a low proportion of 1st life Lithium Titanate and battery electric vehicle battery technologies with a high proportion of 2nd life Lithium Titanate batteries minimises the environmental and economic impacts and provides a high eco-efficiency. The results of the eco-efficiency index show that a hybrid energy storage system configuration containing equal proportions of 1st and 2nd life Lithium Titanate and BEV battery technologies is the most eco-efficient. This research highlights the environmental and economic benefits of the use of Lithium Titanate battery technologies within novel hybrid energy storage systems.