Lithium Ion Batteries

Basic Technology Characteristics An image showing the general chemical structure of a lithium ion cell. Image Source: The Economist (2002)
How it Works:	Shuttle lithium ions (Li+) between cathode (+) and anode (-). Fully charged when Lithium ions are fully intercalated in the anode.
Benefits:	High power and energy density Low self-discharge rate High roundtrip efficiency Flexible configurations Leverage cost reductions from consumer electronics and electric vehicle markets
Challenges:	Cycle life limitations, especially with high depth of discharge Safety concerns around fire and explosion risk Supply chain constraints
Technology Variations:	Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC), Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (NCA), Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO)
Applications:	Diverse applications from minutes to hours duration and from small scale residential to transmission connected.
AC RTE Efficiency:	80-92%
Cycle Life:	3,000 - 10,000 cycles 10 - 20 years
Technology Readiness Level (TRL):	9 - Deployed
Installed Capacity:	>10 GW