Could Flow Batteries Bring Light to Africa

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The widening gap between the rich and poor is one of the greatest challenges we face. Approximately1.2 billion people in emerging economies still do not have electricity. Thus 17% of the world’s most impoverished people may never see a computer or a smartphone. Or even watch a television show at night. Independent advisers Lux Research think flow batteries might be able to fix this.

The Great Challenge Awaiting Flow Batteries

flow batteries
Solar in Africa: World Bank: CC 2.0

Most Africans live in high-density, informal settlements near cities, or in scattered villages throughout the countryside. In the urban areas, economies of scale justify large power stations. Electricity is not easy to deliver in rural areas though, because utility income does not cover cost.

We have known for a while that renewable energy is the answer. Africa has a huge amount of sunshine, but the water needed to cool power stations is scarce.

Thus, solar power is the answer for rural areas. We just need an affordable energy storage medium. Lux Research thinks flow batteries fit the bill and they could be right.

How Flow Batteries Work and Are Scalable Too

flow batteries
Redox Flow Battery: Nick B: CC 3.0

Electrodes in flow batteries take the form of chemicals dissolved in liquid held in two separate tanks. One of these functions as the anode, and the other as the cathode.

Ions flow through a membrane that keeps the two chemicals apart. This is structurally similar to accumulator and fuel cells. The volume of the liquid determines the capacity of flow batteries, and it is simple to replace when exhausted.

The possibilities expand further when we consider their ability to hold charge when idle for long periods. Finally, flow batteries are robust and can last a long time. Just imagine if we could get them into Africa. Then rural people could receive the benefits of technology we take for granted.

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Preview Image: Diagram of the Divided Zinc-Cerium Redox Flow Battery

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About Author

I tripped over a shrinking bank balance and fell into the writing gig unintentionally. This was after I escaped the corporate world and searched in vain for ways to become rich on the internet by doing nothing. Despite the fact that writing is no recipe for wealth, I rather enjoy it. I will not deny I am obsessed with it when I have the time. I live in Margate on the Kwazulu-Natal south coast of South Africa. I work from home where I ponder on the future of the planet, and what lies beyond in the great hereafter. Sometimes I step out of my computer into the silent riverine forests, and empty golden beaches for which the area is renowned. Richard

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