Lead batteries poised to support electric vehicle charging stations

The competitive grant award by the state’s Division of Energy will support a Consortium for Battery Innovation (CBI) feasibility study that will investigate advanced lead battery energy storage deployed alongside EV charging points at Missouri gas stations.

The project could pave the way for a much wider roll-out of EV charging stations utilising advanced lead battery technology. 

CBI is now preparing to select the most appropriate gas station locations before conducting an in-depth feasibility analysis for at least two locations. 

Dr Alistair Davidson, CBI Director, said: “This project aims to demonstrate how advanced lead battery energy storage, linked to EV charging stations, can help manage electricity demand fluctuations and store electricity when it is less costly, before supplying it at a time when electric car drivers need to charge their vehicles. It highlights the important role lead batteries can play in assisting governments around the world to roll-out charging infrastructure and meet energy needs. 

“This kind of innovation could result in a much faster and more effective roll-out of EV charging stations using tried and tested battery energy storage with lead batteries.” 

The grant from Missouri will fund a detailed plan for the set-up and construction of EV charging stations with advanced lead storage at the selected demonstration sites. The detailed plans will identify potential funding sources to fully develop each site. These sites can then be used as a model for future lead battery-supported EV charging stations across the state.

CBI is aiming to establish the demonstration sites in the autumn of 2019. CBI is partnering with Paragon Business Solutions, a consultancy business located in Rolla, Missouri, to deliver the feasibility study. 

Craig Redmon, Director of Missouri’s Division of Energy, said: “We are delighted to support this project through our innovative industry partnerships program, which aims to increase the awareness of, and experience with, marketable energy storage technologies that have the potential to contribute to meeting the state’s energy needs and economic development goals now and into the future.”