Battery storage: Risks and myths

What lies behind the risks and myths associated with battery storage?

We would like to address some of the widespread misconceptions and supposed risks surrounding energy storage. Common concerns include the shelf life of batteries, potential environmental impact, and safety.

It is important for us to address these issues with facts to facilitate an objective discussion.

1. Myth: Battery storage is too expensive to be worthwhile

Fact: Although modern battery storage systems require an initial investment, they are cost-effective in the long term. They enable your company to store electricity generated by renewable energy sources for use during periods of higher energy costs.

Buying an electricity storage system is a strategic move that lowers operating costs and reduces dependence on fossil energy sources over time. Additionally, battery storage systems contribute to grid stability by storing excess energy and releasing it during periods of peak demand. This alleviates bottlenecks and improves the overall efficiency of the German power grid.

Myth 2: Battery storage systems are harmful to the environment

Fact: This is a widespread misconception. Modern battery storage systems are environmentally friendly, particularly when made from recycled electric car batteries. They help to reduce CO₂ emissions and support your company’s environmental and ESG goals.

They offer environmental benefits by storing renewable energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Using recycled materials in production minimises resource consumption and environmental impact. Reusing automotive batteries extends their lifespan and reduces their environmental footprint.

3. Myth: Battery storage systems are inefficient and lose capacity quickly

Fact: Modern battery storage systems are more efficient and longer-lasting than ever. Technological advances mean that modular systems can have a service life of 10 to 20 years with regular maintenance.

Innovations such as multilevel inverter technology (MMC) allow batteries of different capacities to be used without affecting the performance of the overall system. Thanks to this technology, lower capacities no longer result in a loss of system performance. This also means that individual modules can be easily replaced, as the design does not rely on battery modules ageing together. This means that only individual modules need to be replaced, not the entire system. Furthermore, this technology achieves a round-trip efficiency (AC) of ~94% for battery storage systems with conventional inverters, whereas modern systems have an efficiency of ~75-90%.

Find out more about the other advantages of MMC technology here.

The idea that battery storage systems are inefficient and prone to rapid capacity loss is therefore outdated. Thanks to continuous technological advances, modern systems offer greater efficiency, longevity and reliability, making them a viable, sustainable solution for commercial applications.

Myth 4: Battery storage systems are unsafe and prone to fires

Fact: Safety is a key consideration in the development of battery storage technology. Systems are therefore equipped with numerous safety precautions to prevent fires and overheating.

Compliance with strict standards and guidelines, as well as the use of modern safety mechanisms, minimises potential hazards. However, accidents are often caused by external influences or improper installation and maintenance. Adhering to strict safety measures greatly minimises the risk of accidents, making battery storage systems one of the safest options available.

Fact: The cost-effectiveness of battery storage systems for industry and commerce depends on various factors. Overall, numerous case studies and experiences show that battery storage systems in multi-use applications – especially in conjunction with atypical grid usage – enable companies to significantly reduce their energy costs.

A careful assessment of your company’s individual needs will enable you to exploit the full potential in terms of cost-effectiveness.