Battery formation efficiency and efficacy for off-grid solar electricity storage

A significant market is developing in third world countries for off-grid solar photovoltaic electricity. These systems rely on cheap, reliable, low-maintenance lead-acid batteries to shift the daytime electricity generation to the night-time loads. Formation (i.e. electrochemical activation) of such batteries by manufacturers is a time and energy intensive process that can be accomplished with several different charging methods. Forming batteries for the off-grid solar market is especially critical and challenging because they are placed into immediate service and do not receive a strong initial charge as would be given by a boat or train.The objective of this proposed research project is to experimentally evaluate four different formation methods at three different levels to conclusively determine which is specifically suited to the off-grid solar market. Working in partnership with Surrette Battery Company, the project team will oversee and measure the time and energy required for 12 formation variations. Several battery samples of each formation variation will then be experimentally cycled in the laboratory to determine initial and short-term battery performance. Additional samples will be cycled according to the off-grid solar generation schedule to determine application specific performance. This project will lead to specific recommendations of battery formation method, time, and energy for off-grid solar applications that will enable Surrette Battery Company to increase production efficiency and quality of delivered product. By determining optimal formation technique this proposed research will affect the market by lowering costs and increasing reliability. In addition, this proposed project will train 2 highly qualified personnel in process and analysis research techniques of battery manufacturing, power cyclers, and off-grid solar electricity generation.