Batteries, like humans, aren’t big fans of cold weather and don’t work well when the temperature drops. You’ll notice it in your phone – leave it in the cold and the battery life drops precipitously. When winter chills set in, both electric vehicles (EVs) and battery storage systems, using similar battery technology as your phone, face unique challenges. 

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

EV batteries are typically lithium-ion, which are sensitive to temperature changes. When temperatures drop, the chemical reactions inside these batteries slow down, reducing their efficiency and capacity. Here’s a closer look at the impact:

1. Reduced Range: The primary concern for EV owners in cold climates is the reduced driving range. Cold weather can decrease the range of an EV by as much as 41%. This occurs because the battery’s ability to store and deliver power diminishes. For instance, a battery that provides 100 miles on a warm day might only offer around 60 miles in freezing conditions.
2. Increased Energy Consumption: To keep the cabin warm, EVs need to draw power from the battery to operate the heater. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles that can use waste heat from the engine, EVs rely entirely on their battery for heating. This additional power demand further reduces the available range.
3. Slower Charging: Charging an EV in cold weather can be slower than usual. The battery management system might limit the charging speed to prevent damage. Fast-charging an EV in frigid temperatures can also be less effective, making road trips more time-consuming.
4. Battery Degradation: Repeated exposure to cold weather can contribute to long-term battery degradation. Although manufacturers are continuously improving battery technology to mitigate these effects, the cumulative impact of cold weather over several winters can reduce the overall lifespan of the battery.

Battery Storage Systems

For stationary battery storage systems, such as those used in homes or renewable energy installations, cold weather can also pose significant challenges:

1. Reduced Efficiency: Just like in EVs, the chemical reactions within battery storage systems slow down in cold temperatures, reducing their efficiency. This means that less energy can be stored and delivered, which can be particularly problematic during peak demand times.
2. Thermal Management: Effective thermal management systems are essential for maintaining optimal battery performance in cold climates. These systems can heat the battery to maintain it within an operational temperature range. However, this requires additional energy, which can decrease the overall efficiency of the storage system.
3. Capacity Loss: Cold weather can lead to a temporary loss in capacity, meaning that the battery can hold less energy than it would under ideal conditions. This can be a significant issue for remote areas or during power outages when reliable battery performance is crucial.
4. System Longevity: Continuous exposure to cold can accelerate the aging process of battery storage systems. Ensuring that these systems are well-insulated and protected from extreme temperatures can help mitigate long-term damage and prolong their lifespan.

Strategies for Mitigation

1. Preconditioning: For EVs, preconditioning the battery while the vehicle is still plugged in can help. This means warming up the battery and the cabin before starting a trip, reducing the immediate power draw.
2. Insulation: Proper insulation and thermal management systems are vital for both EVs and battery storage systems. This can help maintain the battery within an optimal temperature range, improving efficiency and lifespan.
3. Technology Advancements: Researchers are continuously working on developing batteries with better performance in cold weather. Solid-state batteries and other advanced technologies show promise for the future.

In summary, while cold weather poses significant challenges for batteries in both EVs and storage systems, understanding these issues and adopting mitigation strategies can help ensure reliable performance year-round.

Sources

1. U.S. Department of Energy, “Electric Vehicles: Cold Weather Impacts”, https://www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/electric-vehicles-cold-weather-impacts
2. Tesla, ‘Tesla Cold Weather Tips”, https://www.tesla.com/support/cold-weather
3. Battery University, “How to Prolong Lithium-based Batteries”, https://batteryuniversity.com/article/bu-808b-what-causes-lithium-ion-to-die
4. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), “Battery Performance and Storage”, https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy21osti/79657.pdf
5. Journal of Power Sources, “Temperature Effects on Batteries”, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037877531631120X