Displaying items by tag: vanadium redox flow battery

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

Renewable energy sources combined with energy storage play a vital role in South Africa's pursuit of energy security and achieving its net-zero objective by 2050. As South Africa grapples with a deepening energy crisis, energy storage technologies are gaining prominence, with batteries taking precedence in the short to medium term. Given the growing need for grid storage and the capability of VRFBs to meet demand for applications requiring extended storage duration, this policy brief investigates the potential benefits of VRFBs in addressing local market requirements for energy security. It examines the key cost drivers of VRFBs, with a focus on the vanadium price and provides recommendations for reducing the costs associated with VRFB systems.

See Main Research Report: Localising vanadium battery production for South Africa's energy security