A joint research project between the University of Southampton and lithium battery technology company REAPsystems has found that a lithium battery has the potential to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of solar power.

The research showed that the lithium battery has an energy efficiency of 95% compared to about 80% for conventional lead-acid batteries. The weight of the lithium batteries is lower and they have a longer life span than the lead-acid batteries reaching up to 1,600 charge/discharge cycles, meaning they would need to be replaced less frequently, according to the researchers.

“Compared with traditional lead acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries are more efficient, have a longer lifetime, are lighter and cost less per unit,” said Dr Dennis Doerffel, founder of REAPsystems and former researcher at the University of Southampton. :We can see the potential of this battery being used widely in photovoltaic application, and other renewable energy systems.”