The most widely used batteries in the telecom sector for standby power emergencies are categorized as VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) batteries. These batteries have been used by the telecom sector for many years. VRLA batteries are tested, dependable, affordable, and entirely recyclable. It is therefore not surprising that lithium battery technology has had difficulty gaining traction in this market despite all of its marketed advantages. The fact that the first generation of lithium batteries seen in the last ten years had serious safety problems that resulted in fires and other disasters didn’t help either.
Massive changes are taking place in the world of telecommunications as data demand increases and 5G technology is being rolled out. This means that a reliable and efficient source of power is very important to keep up with these advancements; hence the lithium-ion battery becomes significant to telecommunication infrastructure of tomorrow.
All technologies, however, develop and grow over time as Lithium functions similarly. Particularly, companies have installed millions of telecom-grade modules using LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries globally for a wide range of applications and in diverse settings. The technology has shown to be safe and dependable over time, has become reasonably cheap, and most importantly, it doesn’t usually produce flammable vapors when it fails with this specific chemistry. The LFP trend has already started in Asian and European markets, and as lithium prices rise, I think a significant worldwide shift to this battery chemistry is about to occur.
The following are reasons why lithium batteries are transforming the telecom landscape:
High Energy Density: Lithium batteries have much energy packed into a small size enabling smaller backup systems compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. These batteries find application in cities where there is a premium for space because they need less space.
• Faster Charging and Discharging: Compared to lead acid types, lithium cells allow for faster charging and discharging. This helps in ensuring that networks run smoothly during outages while reducing downtime and keeping service at par.
• Longer Lifespan: In comparison with other types, lithium batteries have much longer life spans thus cutting down on replacement costs, providing a higher return on investment (ROI).
• Less Upkeep: Lithium batteries need little maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries, which require regular water additions and checks. This leads to lower operating costs and better productivity for telecom companies.
• Eco-Friendly: People see lithium batteries as a greener choice than lead-acid batteries. They have fewer harmful components and can be reused when they wear out.
How Lithium Batteries Shape Telecom’s Future:
• Base Stations and Cell Towers: Lithium batteries now serve as the main backup power for base stations and cell towers replacing lead-acid batteries. This ensures networks keep running during blackouts.
• Small Cells and Microcells: The growth of small cells and microcells in cities needs compact and light backup power options. Lithium batteries fit this need because of their smaller size and lighter weight.
• 5G Network Deployment: 5G technology needs a stronger and quicker power supply. Lithium batteries can deliver high power fast, which suits the needs of 5G networks.
• Disaster Response: People can set up lithium batteries when natural disasters or emergencies happen giving crucial power backup for communication systems.
Benefits of LFP Batteries:
- 3x Energy Density (Wh/kg) vs. VRLA Batteries
- 2x In-service Life Span
- Zero Maintenance / Self-testing / ‘Smart’
- Built-in Monitoring for SoH Reporting & Backup Time Estimation
- Simple to Install & Replace (1 module = 48VDC)
However, there are still some challenges to address:
LFP batteries were two to four times (or more) more expensive than VRLA batteries. However, the cost of lithium batteries has been decreasing quickly, and over the next few years, price parity with VRLA batteries should happen, largely due to the EV industry and a significant increase in lithium production.
Resistance to change has also come from other sources, including the telecom carriers themselves and the established battery producers who continue to make good profits on the outdated VRLA technology.
Lithium had an early issue with recycling as well, but this has since been fixed. Even though new disruptive companies are stepping up and satisfying customer demand, it appears that the incumbents are still not in a rush to retool and enter the new Lithium era.