Lithium batteries have significantly changed how we use electricity in our daily lives, becoming essential to everything from smartphones and computers to electric vehicles. Their compact size and high energy density allow devices to be smaller, lighter, and more durable. For instance, smartphones and laptops benefit greatly, as lithium batteries enable sleek designs without sacrificing power or performance. Digital cameras also see improvements in portability and usage time, offering users greater convenience.
Beyond personal electronics, the impact of lithium batteries extends to transportation. Electric vehicles, which once relied on nickel-metal hydride batteries, now predominantly use lithium-ion batteries due to their superior energy density and low self-discharge rate. This transition allows electric vehicles to be more convenient and efficient, making lithium-ion batteries the preferred choice for powering them. Additionally, household tools like cordless vacuum cleaners and small appliances have become more portable and user-friendly thanks to the integration of lithium batteries.
Lithium batteries have also influenced outdoor and leisure activities. The rising popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters is partly due to these batteries, which provide the necessary power and durability for extended use, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles.
In industrial settings, lithium batteries are used across various applications, including wirelessly controlled robots, drones, and IoT sensors. The aerospace industry, in particular, values them for their lightweight design and high energy output, powering aircraft systems such as emergency lighting and communication equipment. Their reliability is crucial for the safety and efficiency of air travel. Forklifts, too, benefit from the shift to lithium batteries, which offer a longer lifespan, faster charging, and reduced maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries. Renewable energy storage systems like solar and wind power plants also make extensive use of lithium batteries. These systems can store excess energy produced during peak times and release it when production is low or demand is high, helping to stabilise the power grid and ensure a continuous supply from renewable sources.
There is considerable potential for further improving lithium battery performance. As technology advances, the focus is increasingly on enhancing energy density and overall efficiency to meet the growing demand for more powerful and sustainable energy solutions.
Alkemy Capital Investments plc (LON:ALK) is focussed on developing projects in the energy transition metals sector. Tees Valley Lithium is developing a state of the art lithium hydroxide plant at Teesside, UK. Tees Valley Graphite is developing the UK’s first natural graphite active anode material processing facility at the ‘plug-and-play’ Wilton International Chemicals Park.
