In a breakthrough that could redefine global energy storage, German scientists have developed a salt-and-air battery system capable of storing clean energy for decades without degradation — and remarkably, it uses no lithium at all.
The innovative system, developed by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology, leverages common salt and atmospheric oxygen to store electricity at high efficiency and low cost. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, which degrade over time and rely on rare, environmentally damaging materials, this new battery promises ultra-long life, sustainability, and scalability.
“This is a game-changer,” said lead researcher Dr. Klaus Müller. “We’ve created a storage solution that’s not only safe and affordable, but also incredibly durable — ideal for powering homes, grids, and even industrial systems.”
- Zero Lithium: Uses abundant salt instead of rare earth metals.
- No Degradation: Maintains performance even after thousands of cycles.
- Eco-Friendly: Fully recyclable and non-toxic materials.
- Scalable: Suited for large-scale renewable energy storage.
With renewable energy adoption rising worldwide, energy storage has become a critical challenge. Experts believe Germany’s new battery could solve one of the biggest hurdles in the green transition — how to store solar and wind power long-term without costly replacements.
The battery is currently being tested in pilot projects across Bavaria and Saxony, with plans for industrial rollout by 2027. If successful, this salt-and-air technology may not just compete with lithium — it might replace it entirely.
