Energy storage potential of used electric vehicle batteries for supporting renewable energy generation in India

As electric vehicle (EV) batteries degrade to 80 % of their full capacity, they become unsuitable for electric vehicle propulsion but remain viable for energy storage applications in solar and wind power plants. This study aims to estimate the energy storage potential of used-EV batteries for stationary applications in the Indian context. To estimate the renewable energy generation and used-EV capacity, the study adopted International Energy Agency (IEA) and International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) growth scenarios for renewable energy growth and electric vehicle growth, respectively. Battery degradation models for popular battery chemistries in electric vehicle mobility, namely Lithium Iron Phosphate, Lithium Manganese Oxide, and Nickel Manganese Cobalt, are employed to estimate reusable battery capacity. The first life for these battery chemistries, for mobility applications, ranges from 3.5 to 7 years. Results indicate an estimated storage potential of 1300–1870 GWh in used electric vehicle batteries in India by 2038. This is equivalent to 17 % – 39 % of average daily energy generation from solar and wind power plants in various scenarios by the year 2038. This research contributes to SDG-7 by facilitating clean energy accessibility through renewable energy storage and supports emission reduction efforts in transportation and energy sectors, thereby fostering sustainable cities (SDG-11).