Ishan Persaud
Published on March 5, 2025
Written by: Ishan Persaud
As the world moves towards a renewable energy future, one of the biggest challenges we face is figuring out how to store all that clean energy efficiently [1]. Right now, lithium-ion batteries dominate the scene. They’re in everything from smartphones to electric vehicles (EVs) and even large-scale energy storage systems. But are they truly the best long-term option? Let’s explore the key considerations.
Lithium-ion Batteries: The Go-To Energy Storage Solution
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used because they have a high energy density, charge quickly, and work well in a range of applications. Whether it’s powering EVs, storing solar energy for homes, or backing up the grid, these batteries are versatile and effective. But here’s the catch: lithium isn’t a renewable resource. Mining lithium is an energy-intensive process that can lead to habitat destruction, water shortages, and pollution. Plus, improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries can result in toxic waste, posing environmental risks [2]. As the demand for lithium grows, so does the need for alternatives.
Sand Batteries: A More Sustainable Alternative?
Enter sand batteries, a promising, sustainable solution that takes a different approach to energy storage. Instead of storing electricity directly, sand batteries use sand-based thermal storage to retain heat, which can later be converted into usable energy [3]. The big advantage? Sand is abundant, non-toxic, and doesn’t degrade as lithium-ion cells do over time. However, sand batteries are not a perfect solution. Their efficiency is lower compared to lithium-ion technology, and they are primarily designed for heat storage rather than direct electricity storage. This limitation makes them less suitable for applications requiring rapid power discharge, such as EV charging. But where they excel is in grid storage and industrial heating, where long-term, stable energy reserves are needed.
How Can Barbados Leverage Emerging Energy Storage Technologies?
For islands like Barbados, where integrating renewables and maintaining grid stability are major concerns [4], sand batteries could be a game-changer. They can provide reserve power to maintain grid reliability during short circuits or outages, helping to build a more resilient energy network. Unlike lithium-ion systems, which require complex battery management systems (BMS) and cooling, sand batteries have a simple design, minimal maintenance costs, and a much longer lifespan. In the short term, lithium-ion will likely continue to dominate mobile energy storage solutions due to its fast discharge capabilities. But for grid-scale energy storage and industrial applications, sand batteries could offer a more cost-effective and sustainable option.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Energy Storage
The reality is that no single energy storage technology will be the silver bullet. A multifaceted approach will likely be needed to achieve a truly sustainable energy future [5]. Further exploration into lithium-ion, sand batteries, solid-state batteries, hydrogen storage, and gravity-based systems is required to gain a better understanding for BESS applications in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Continued investment and research into alternative storage technologies will help reduce dependence on finite resources like lithium while ensuring a stable and reliable energy grid.
As we transition to cleaner energy, it is crucial to consider not only how we generate power but also how we store it. Additionally, establishing regulatory frameworks that ensure the compatibility of BESS projects with existing grid infrastructure is essential for long-term success. Effective implementation can enhance climate resilience and improve a grid’s robustness against external shocks, such as natural disasters that disrupt energy supply. By embracing diverse energy storage solutions, we can build a resilient, sustainable energy system that supports communities, businesses, and national energy security.
Bibliography
[1] MDPI, “Battery electric storage systems: advances, challenges, and market trends,” Energies , vol. 16, no. 22, p. 7566, 2023.
[2] Mrozik, Wojciech et al.,”Environmental impacts, pollution sources and pathways of spent lithium-ion batteries,” Energy & Environmental Science, vol. 14, no. 7, pp. 60996121, 2021.
[3] Vyas, A. M. and Kushwar G. S., “Sand Battery: An Innovative Solution for Renewable Energy Storage,” in IEEE Renewable Energy and Sustainable E-Mobility Conference (RESEM), Bhopal, India , 2023.
[4] Buchinger, Joseph et al., “Barbados Sustainable Energy Industry Market Assessment Report,” cekh.ccreee.org, Barbados , 2018.
[5] U.S Department of Energy , “Grid Energy Storage Technology Cost and Performance Assessment,” Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Washington, 2022.