Could Aquion Energy Batteries Help Revolutionize Clean Energy?

We rarely think about them, but they’re the mechanisms that increasingly power almost every aspect of our lives – batteries. Yet, while they allow us immense mobility and productivity, many standard batteries are replete with potentially harmful chemicals such as nickel or lead. But venture-funded Aquion Energy is ready to change that with their nontoxic alternative.

Off hand, I can think of more than a dozen devices in my home that rely on a battery in order to operate, and eventually, all of the batteries within those devices will need to be replaced. If not disposed of correctly, their toxic components could be released into the environment and contribute dramatically to pollution.

The same is true for car batteries and industrial-level batteries, such as those used in some LEED projects as a way to store naturally produced energy and limit grid reliance.

Recognizing this problem, Aquion Energy has worked to develop a solution made of natural components including salt water, carbon, and manganese oxide. To see exactly how they’re manufactured, check out this video:

The firm’s vice president of product and corporate strategy, Ted Wiley, reported:

“We are using materials that are non-toxic and readily available in high volumes. And they won’t be damaging to the environment.” According to their site, the battery “offers long cycle life at high efficiency and deep depth of discharge.”

For LEED projects that are designed for off-grid operation, this solution could provide energy stability to otherwise fluctuating energy sources (i.e., solar, wind, etc.) in a form that is eco-friendly. For LEED commercial projects that would benefit from energy management via peak shaving (reliance on back-up energy alternatives when grid demand is highest), these non-toxic batteries just might be the golden ticket.

The concept has been well received, both by VC’s - like Bill Gates, for instance - and the battery market. The firm as a whole recently won the Katerva 2013 Award and placed in the Grid Edge 20 listing.

In addition to securing a number of testing deployments and a partnership with Siemens, a California ranch is already utilizing the firm’s solution in its daily operations. Plus, with a new Georgian manufacturing plant ready to roll, they’ll be fulfilling other orders in no time.