Lithium-ion battery

Lithium-ion battery

The lithium-ion battery is currently the most widely used technology for storing electrical energy — both in mobile applications (e.g. electric vehicles, laptops) and in stationary Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for commercial and industrial use.

How it works

During charging, lithium ions move from the positive electrode to the negative electrode and are stored there. During discharging, they move back and release energy in the process.

This cell chemistry is particularly efficient, lightweight, and durable.

Depending on the application, different variants (e.g. LFP, NMC) offer advantages in terms of energy density, cost, or temperature stability.

Typical applications

 • Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) combined with PV systems for self-consumption optimization
 • Peak shaving in commercial and industrial applications
 • Provision of balancing services in the electricity market
 • Use in electric vehicles and portable electronic devices
 • Backup power solutions for critical infrastructure

Key figures

 • Energy density: ratio of energy content to volume or weight
 • Cycle life: 3,000–10,000 charge cycles, depending on type and operating mode
 • Efficiency: typically 90–95% round-trip efficiency
 • Depth of Discharge (DoD): usually up to 80–90% usable
 • Temperature range: ideally between 10 °C and 35 °C — thermal management is often required

Summary

Lithium-ion batteries are the backbone of modern energy storage solutions. They offer high performance, long service life, and low losses — making them ideal for dynamic applications such as load management, balancing services, or PV self-consumption.

Thanks to falling costs and mature technology, they are the first choice for commercial and industrial storage projects.