Climate & Environment
Sodium-Ion Battery
Definition
A sodium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery that stores energy by shuttling sodium ions between electrodes, operating on the same principle as lithium-ion but using sodium — abundant, low-cost and geographically widespread — in place of lithium. Commercial cells offer lower energy density than lithium-ion but competitive cost, good low-temperature performance, strong safety characteristics and freedom from lithium, cobalt and copper supply constraints.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Sodium-Ion Battery” is defined and used.
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Overview
How it is used
The technology structures stationary storage products, two-wheeler and city EVs in China, and diversification strategies of battery makers and utilities hedging lithium supply risk.
Why it matters
If batteries are the workhorse of the energy transition, sodium-ion is the hedge that keeps the workhorse fed when lithium supply chains tighten.