AS the global community increasingly embraces sustainable energy solutions, the battery manufacturing industry finds itself at a pivotal moment. Leading experts in the field convened at the plenary session on the “Future of Battery Manufacturing” at Singapore’s 2nd Asean Battery Technology Conference. They engaged in insightful discussions on the challenges and innovations poised to define this sector’s trajectory.
The panel featured resource persons like Prof. Shirley Meng from The University of Chicago; Dr. Ulderico Ulissi, research manager at Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL); Dr. Cheng Qian, president of Gotion APAC; and Gary Gong, senior portfolio development manager at Siemens Digital Industries Software.
Addressing energy demands, innovation
Professor Meng articulated a prospective vision for battery technology in a prior plenary session. With a projected surge in the global population to 8.5 billion by 2030, the majority would now reside in developing economies. This demographic shift will significantly amplify energy demands, necessitating an estimated 85 terawatt-hours (TWh) of battery storage capacity, assuming a per capita consumption of 10 kilowatt-hours. The anticipated proliferation of 5G-connected devices, reaching an estimated 6 billion smartphones and tablets, will intensify the demand for advanced fast-charging and discharging technologies. As 1 billion cars transition to electric power, with advancements in electric planes and heavy-duty trucks, the number of vehicles may decrease.
However, incorporating vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology is expected to improve vehicle utilization. Meanwhile, the future energy grid will likely rely on alternative technologies like hydrogen, hydro, and thermal energy for long-duration storage needs of 100 TWh.
The professor underscored the importance of translational research and the entrepreneurial ventures within her group, including startups focused on battery technology and recycling. She emphasized the critical role of National Laboratories in providing infrastructure that supports innovation and helps startups navigate challenges like financial constraints, scaling issues, and market mismatches. She advocated for preserving knowledge and talent within academic institutions and National Laboratories.
Professor Meng called for a collaborative environment where startups can test ideas before approaching established companies, suggesting this approach could benefit Southeast Asia.
Challenges in battery technologies
Dr. Ulissi of CATL, a Chinese company that is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries, discussed the difficulties in moving battery technology from research to commercialization. He stressed the significance of being skeptical when analyzing promises in the industry and bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications.
Dr. Ulissi noted the complexity of scaling up quality manufacturing and the growing trend of startups partnering with established companies to achieve this.
Despite sodium being more abundant and cheaper than lithium, Dr. Ulissi believes sodium-ion batteries are not expected to replace lithium-ion batteries fully. Integrating sodium ions into the battery supply chain remains a work in progress, with significant efforts needed to develop and optimize this technology.
Advancing safer, more efficient batteries
Dr. Qian shared the progress and challenges in advancing battery technology, particularly in areas like recycling, high-temperature performance, and energy density. He pointed out innovations at the material level, such as improving battery mechanics and safety. Significant strides have been made despite some unresolved issues, especially in maintaining high energy density while ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness.
Dr. Cheng also highlighted the importance of cycling and storage performance, noting that they have already started mass production and have secured customers for their new battery materials.
Global market dynamics in manufacturing
Gong of Siemens Digital Industries Software delved into the evolving global battery market, which is driven by increasing demand for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions. While China, Japan, and Korea remain dominant players due to their established expertise, European and US companies increasingly enter the market, influenced by supply chain security concerns.
Siemens, a global powerhouse, is teaming up with top battery manufacturers to supercharge their development and production. They offer cutting-edge simulation tools and manufacturing solutions to help these companies innovate faster. Plus, they’re lending a hand to expand successful operations into new markets, particularly in Europe, the US, and Southeast Asia — a significant boost for the industry.
The role of collaboration
Connecting academic research with real-world commercialization is vital. Key players — from industry leaders and researchers to policymakers — must collaborate to guarantee this industry’s continued and eco-friendly expansion. Looking at the path forward for battery manufacturing hinges on establishing interconnected, robust and environmentally responsible practices.
Key leaders in the industry shared innovative ideas and strategies that have the potential to reshape the energy landscape in the Asean region and beyond. The future of battery manufacturing is promising, with academics, industry leaders, and governments joining forces to build a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
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