History of Energy Storage Systems: Batteries

The most important advancement was the invention of the lithium-ion battery. Lithium batteries were originally experimented with at the beginning of the 1900’s by Gilbert Newton Lewis, but it wasn’t until later his experiment was involved in success: John Goodenough’s 1980 discovery of the lithium cobalt oxide cathode; Rachid Yazami’s 1982 discovery of the graphite anode; and Asahi Chemical, Japan’s prototype of a rechargeable lithium battery were necessary developments before a lithium battery could be commercialized. Sony sold the first commercial lithium-ion batteries in 1991.  

Lithium-ion batteries, today, are used in wheelchairs, laptops, household appliances, power tools, and more, including many solar energy storage systems.  

Solar technology and energy storage systems continue to advance, becoming more reliable for homeowners with rooftop systems. Providing energy independence, additional savings, and more protection from rising utility costs, energy storage systems can be a great addition to your solar panels.