Posted in:

Power Battery Cell vs. Energy Storage Battery Cell: What’s the Difference?

The distinction between power battery cells and energy storage battery cells may seem subtle, but it carries profound implications for the way we generate, store, and utilize electricity. They are working together to prompt the evolution of the energy industry. 

Consider the global impact of companies like EVE, offering battery cells for Kabra Extrusion Technik’s BESS; Fluence, with a 9.4 GW deployment of energy storage systems; and Tesla’s 52 MWh Powerpack installation on Kauai, which are testaments to the rapid evolution of energy storage solutions for a more reliable and renewable-integrated grid. Meanwhile, more and more battery brands have launched their latest power battery for EV applications. It demonstrates energy storage’s fast improvements for better grid dependability and integrated renewable energy sources. 

This blog will demystify the differences between power and energy storage battery cells, helping you figure out their roles in the energy field.

What Are the Power Battery Cells and Energy Storage Battery Cells?

Power battery cells offer high discharge rates for short bursts of high power in EVs where quick acceleration is needed. Conversely, energy storage battery cells prioritize high energy density to store large amounts of energy for long periods for grid storage solutions to balance load and supply. E.g., some types of lithium batteries can be used in energy storage for their long cycle life and thermal stability, and some other lithium cells might be preferred in power battery applications for their high specific energy and power output. So, choosing between a power battery cell and an energy storage battery swirls around application requirements, including discharge rate versus energy capacity.

Power Battery Cell vs. Energy Storage Battery Cell

Design Aims

Power battery cells deliver high power output in short bursts. They prioritize high current discharge rates through optimized electrode surface areas and internal resistance. In contrast, energy storage battery cells maximize energy density. They store and deliver energy over long periods. It uses materials and designs that augment volumetric and gravimetric energy densities for stability.

Applications

Power battery cells are found in EVs, power tools, and aerospace uses. They are key to rapid acceleration in electric cars and drone takeoffs. Yet, energy storage battery cells are used in renewable energy systems. They store energy for grid use and a stable supply. They also provide backup power and load balancing in residential and commercial energy storage systems.

Performance Requirements

Power battery cells must show high discharge rates and rapid charge capabilities. They handle exciting current loads without performance degradation. Conversely, energy storage battery cells require high cycle life and efficiency. They should keep capacity over thousands of cycles. 

Safety Restrictions

Safety is key in both battery cell types but is expressed differently. Power battery cells need thermal management systems to thwart overheating during high discharge. They may have thermal runaway prevention mechanisms. Energy storage battery cells accentuate stability over long periods and erratic environmental conditions. They should be combined with BMS to regulate voltage, temperature, and charge levels to prevent overcharging, deep discharge, and thermal and chemical instability.

Test Standards

Power battery cells suffer testing for high discharge rates and thermal stability. GB/T31485, GB/T31486, ISO 12405-1, and UN 38.3 confirm that they meet reliability needs. The tests include vibration, shock, thermal cycling, and overcharge protection. In contrast, energy storage battery cells are tested for long-term trustworthiness. GB/T36276, IEC 62619, and UL 1973 focus on cycle life, capacity retention, and safety under long-use conditions. Such tests simulate temperature fluctuations and protracted disuse.

EVE Lithium Batteries

EVE offers the LF280K energy storage battery cell and LF304 power battery cell for advanced energy demands. The LF280K suits long-term energy storage because of its 280Ah capacity at 3.2V and 8000 cycles (at 25℃). It has a low internal resistance (≤0.25mΩ) and works well from 0°C to 60°C, with discharge capabilities down to -30°C. 

On the other hand, the LF304 power battery cell, built for high-current applications with a rated energy of 972.8Wh, has a 304Ah capacity at 3.2V and a cycle life of 4000 cycles. It charges from 0°C to 65°C and discharges from -35°C to 65°C. Both models prioritize strong performance measures for energy storage and power distribution for reliability in different operating circumstances.

Conclusion

EVE prismatic LFP cell technologies help EVE make power battery cells and energy storage battery solutions. Their high discharge rates, expanded life, and safety requirements, backed by precision production, and 23 years of experience, set EVE Battery apart. Cooperated with GOODWE, BMW and FOTON, EVE ensures their solutions satisfy strict needs around the world. Their products are dependable for many applications, including new energy vehicles and smart grids, due to their 5500+ researchers emphasizing sustainable practices.