Second-Life Opportunities for Retired EV Li-Ion Batteries

Electrification of industrial non-road mobile equipment and passenger electric vehicles, categorically referred to as EVs in this study, are creating new Electricity for All opportunities in rural communities in Asia. These batteries retire when they no longer provide sufficient energy to its expected end-use even though they still maintain 70% or more of its rated capacity. Batteries are the most expensive component of an EV and over the lifetime, it is expected that one full battery refresh will occur, adding a significant amount to the total cost of ownership. Giving retired EV batteries a “second life” in rural communities with distributed mini-grids to store renewable power or to displace diesel in diesel-renewable hybrid systems is an innovative approach to provide clean power around the clock, reduce GHG emissions and can lower the cost for all parties. This presentation will demonstrate the opportunity, discuss main challenges and barriers, and outline technical and business solutions that can be piloted and scaled up.