South Africa’s vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) value chain currently lies in raw material output, electrolyte production, and locally manufactured balance of plant components. However, there is potential for a more significant role to be played along the value chain. To foster the growth of a domestic VRFB industry, it is crucial to implement measures that support both demand and supply. The increasing demand for electrification in Africa, and globally for long duration storage, creates an opportunity for VRFBs to enhance energy supply. VRFBs present a compelling commercial opportunity for use in storage due to their safety, use of recyclable electrolytes, and extended cycle life, among other advantages. This study examines the growth potential of a South African VRFB value chain. The analysis is particularly relevant given the rapid expansion of the global VRFB industry.The research explores the practicality of developing a sustainable VRFB market and supply chain in South Africa, integrated with renewable energy generation, while improving energy supply and security.
See Policy Brief: A review of vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) market demand and costs