Cost remains a major hurdle in the widespread adoption of batteries. While lithium-ion batteries have become more affordable, they are still too expensive for universal use in homes and other applications.
Unigrid, a startup co-founded by Darren Tan, is addressing this challenge by developing sodium-ion batteries as a cost-effective complement to lithium-ion technology.
The Promise of Sodium-Ion Chemistry
Sodium-ion batteries offer a significant cost advantage due to the abundance and affordability of raw materials. Tan claims that when produced at scale, sodium-ion batteries could be half the cost of lithium-iron-phosphate batteries.
However, sodium-ion batteries face challenges such as lower energy density and different charging/discharging behavior compared to lithium-ion.
Unigrid tackles these issues with its innovative sodium-chromium-oxide and tin-based chemistry. This approach results in batteries that are comparable in size and power output to lithium-ion, while using readily available materials like chromium.
Safety First: Unigrid’s Commitment to Non-Flammable Batteries
Unigrid’s commitment to safety is evident in its battery design. Tan asserts that their batteries won’t catch fire until reaching extremely high temperatures, making them suitable for use in buildings, hospitals, and data centers.
This focus on safety opens up new possibilities for widespread distributed energy storage.
Unigrid plans to scale production by partnering with smaller battery manufacturers who can produce their designs on existing equipment.
This approach allows for rapid scaling without the need for building new factories. Tan believes that there is ample spare capacity in these facilities to produce batteries on a megawatt-hour scale.
Targeting Energy Storage and Light EVs
Unigrid’s initial target market is energy storage for buildings and small campuses. They are also exploring opportunities in the light electric vehicle (EV) market, such as scooters, motorcycles, and tuk-tuks.
These vehicles are popular in regions with high temperatures, where lithium-ion batteries can be prone to overheating.
Series A Funding Secures $12 Million
To accelerate the production of its sodium-ion batteries, Unigrid has raised $12 million in a Series A funding round led by Transition VC and Ritz Venture Capital, with participation from Union Square Ventures and Foothill Ventures.
Tan envisions Unigrid’s sodium-ion batteries making a significant impact in the market within the next five years. With its focus on affordability, safety, and scalability, Unigrid is poised to play a crucial role in the ongoing transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.