Why is Africa a good place for battery production?

Each system can contribute uniquely to Africa's diverse energy storage needs. Africa's potential for local battery manufacturing is substantial due to its natural resource wealth and available labour force. The continent is rich in minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and graphite, essential components for battery production.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have emerged as a pivotal solution, storing excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night or during periods of high demand. Storage batteries can also be integrated with existing grid power to stabilise use between peak and off-peak usage.

What percentage of lithium-ion batteries are used in the energy sector?

Despite the continuing use of lithium-ion batteries in billions of personal devices in the world, the energy sector now accounts for over 90% of annual lithium-ion battery demand. This is up from 50% for the energy sector in 2016, when the total lithium-ion battery market was 10-times smaller.

How many GW of battery storage capacity are there in the world?

Strong growth occurred for utility-scale battery projects, behind-the-meter batteries, mini-grids and solar home systems for electricity access, adding a total of 42 GW of battery storage capacity globally.

Where are batteries used today?

China is currently the world’s largest market for batteries and accounts for over half of all battery in use in the energy sector today. The European Union is the next largest market followed by the United States, with smaller markets also in the United Kingdom, Korea and Japan.

Why is battery storage important?

Beyond reliability, battery storage reduces reliance on fossil fuels by making renewable energy more viable and lowering carbon emissions associated with traditional power generation. Additionally, batteries provide backup power during outages, ensuring that homes and businesses remain operational when the grid fails.