Comparative Analysis of Lithium-Ion Batteries and Supercapacitors for Smart Grid Energy Storage

Abstract

Abstract This thesis presents a comparative analysis of lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors as energy storage technologies in smart grids. The analysis is based on five parameters: energy density, power density, life cycle, cost and environmental impact. The results reveal that lithium-ion batteries are more appropriate for long-term storage in smart grids. This is due to their exceptionally high energy density and benefits connected to costs. By comparison, supercapacitors offer higher power density, life cycle and lower environmental impact. Making them suitable for smart grid processes like high-frequency peak shaving. A potential hybrid solution that consists of both lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors were also explored. These hybrid solutions have shown to address a number of the individual concerns faced by both technologies. However, there needs to be more development focusing on the hybrid solution within smart grid infrastructures. While limited by a lack of real-world studies, this thesis offers a valuable framework that could be used in future studies and practical applications in smart grids.