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Lithium vs. Lead Acid Batteries: Is the Higher Cost Worth It?

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26 Aug, 2024

This post was originally published on Power Sonic

When choosing between battery options, a common question arises: “Are lithium batteries worth the higher cost?” At first glance, lithium batteries may appear more expensive than lead acid batteries, especially when comparing batteries with similar capacity ratings. However, when you consider the total cost of ownership and performance advantages, lithium batteries can prove to be a more cost-effective option in the long run. In this blog, we’ll explore why lithium batteries, despite their higher upfront cost, offer superior value and efficiency. 

UNDERSTANDING THE COST DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LITHIUM AND LEAD ACID BATTERIES 

The initial price difference between lead acid and lithium batteries can be misleading when evaluating the true value and long-term benefits of each battery type.  

Key Factors Influencing the True Cost of Ownership 

Lithium batteries offer several benefits that can lead to significant savings over their lifespan: 

  1. Extended Lifespan: Lithium batteries typically last 10 years or more, compared to lead acid batteries’ 3-5 year lifespan. This longer lifespan reduces the frequency of replacements and maintenance, resulting in substantial cost savings over time. 
  1. Extended cycle life: Lithium batteries typically cycle 4000 times or more, compared to lead acid batteries’ 200-400 cycle life – a 10x improvement! When cycling the battery once every day, that is almost 11 years of service vs. just more than one year of useful cycle life. 
  1. Greater Depth of Discharge (DoD): Lithium batteries can be discharged to a much lower level without harming their lifespan. In contrast, lead acid batteries should not be discharged below 50% full to avoid damage. 30% DoD is an ideal cycle for ensuring a lead acid’s long life whereas lithium can be discharged 100%. This allows lithium batteries to provide more usable energy, potentially reducing the need for a larger battery bank. 
  1. Higher Efficiency: Lithium batteries are highly efficient in charging and discharging, with minimal energy wasted as heat. Internal resistance, the natural opposition to electrical current within a battery, causes energy loss as heat. Lithium batteries have lower internal resistance than other types, like lead acid batteries, reducing this energy loss. This also allows for faster charging, resulting in better performance, lower energy costs, and less downtime spent charging. 
  1. Reduced Maintenance: Lithium batteries require minimal maintenance compared to lead acid batteries. They do not require regular electrolyte checks and are less prone to issues like sulfation, which can degrade lead acid batteries. 
  1. Space and Weight Savings: Lithium batteries are lighter and more compact than lead acid batteries, making them ideal for space-constrained applications such as RVs, boats, and electric vehicles. 
Lithium Batteries for Marine and RV

Lower Capacity Lithium Batteries: Real Cost Benefits 

This is where the real cost benefits become evident. Because lithium batteries can be discharged more deeply and operate more efficiently, you don’t need as large of a battery to achieve the same usable capacity as a lead acid battery. This means you can often opt for a lower capacity lithium battery, resulting in a lower initial investment while still benefiting from superior performance and a longer lifespan.  

For example, if you would like a 100Ah system you must buy three 100Ah SLA batteries to ensure you only discharge them about 30% to guarantee a long life. A 100Ah lithium system would require only one 100Ah lithium battery because you can use 100% of the available capacity.

The Financial Impact of Frequent Replacements 

Another crucial factor in the cost comparison is the frequency of replacements. Lead acid batteries typically need to be replaced every 3-5 years. Over a 10-year period, this could mean purchasing and installing two to three sets of lead acid batteries, incurring additional costs for the batteries, labor, and disposal fees. 

In contrast, a lithium battery with a 10-year (or longer) lifespan requires only one purchase within the same period. This reduces replacement frequency and associated costs, making the overall cost of ownership for lithium batteries lower despite their higher initial price. 

Practical Example: Cost Comparison 

Consider an RV owner needing a 200Ah battery bank. A lead acid battery bank of this size might cost $800 and require replacement every 3-4 years. Over a 10-year period, the total cost for lead acid batteries could reach $2,400 due to the need for frequent replacements. 

On the other hand, a single 100Ah lithium battery, priced at well less than $1,000, provides the same usable capacity due to its deeper discharge and efficiency and lasts the full 10 years. The longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements of lithium batteries offset the higher upfront cost, making them a more economical choice. 

Lithium Battery Bank

Is Investing in Lithium Batteries Worth It? 

While lithium batteries may have a higher initial cost compared to lead acid batteries, their extended lifespan, greater efficiency, and reduced maintenance can lead to significant savings over time. The ability to use a lower capacity lithium battery to achieve the same performance further enhances their cost-effectiveness. 

Ultimately, the choice between lithium and lead acid batteries should be based on your specific needs and usage patterns. However, with their numerous benefits and potential for lower overall costs, lithium batteries often prove to be a worthwhile investment. 

For more insights, visit our blog “The Complete Guide to Lithium vs. Lead Acid Batteries.” 

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Embedding environmental stewardship into IT governance frameworks

Embedding environmental stewardship into IT governance frameworks

Integrating environmental stewardship into IT governance frameworks has become essential as businesses increasingly prioritise sustainability. IT operations contribute significantly to carbon emissions, energy consumption and electronic waste (e-waste). Organisations that embed environmental responsibility into their IT governance can reduce their ecological footprint, improve operational efficiency and strengthen their brand reputation.

Erica Smith, chief alliance officer and environmental, social and governance lead, Blue Connections IT, said, “Environmental stewardship supports financial performance, risk mitigation and brand differentiation. With rising energy costs, increased consumer demand for sustainable products and services, and growing pressure from investors and regulators, companies can no longer afford to overlook their environmental responsibilities.

“Poor sustainability practices in IT can lead to high operational costs, supply chain risks and reputational damage. Conversely, a proactive approach improves efficiency, attracts environmentally conscious customers and helps future-proof businesses against evolving policy and regulatory changes.

“Integrating environmental responsibility into IT governance integrates sustainability initiatives into decision-making systematically. Organisations can reduce waste, lower energy consumption and extend the lifecycle of technology assets while positioning themselves as responsible leaders in an increasingly climate-aware market.”

There are four key areas that present opportunities to embed environmental stewardship into IT governance frameworks.

1. Device lifecycle management

A structured approach to managing the lifecycle of IT assets ensures devices are deployed efficiently, maintained properly and retired responsibly at the end of their useful life. Embracing a circular economy model, where equipment is refurbished, reused or ethically recycled, can significantly reduce e-waste and resource use. Companies that adopt this approach lower their environmental impact and unlock financial value by extending the lifecycle of IT assets.

Smith said, “Effective asset recovery strategies further support sustainability efforts. Integrating secure data erasure and refurbishment into IT governance policies lets businesses repurpose functional devices within the organisation or resell them to external buyers. Responsible e-waste recycling also supports companies to process materials ethically in instances where resale is not viable, reducing landfill contributions and preventing environmental contamination. The adoption of industry-certified data sanitisation methods also safeguards compliance with security and privacy regulations.”

2. Sustainable procurement

IT governance frameworks should prioritise the selection of technology vendors and partners committed to sustainable manufacturing, responsible sourcing and energy-efficient product design. This includes favouring IT hardware with a high percentage of post-consumer recycled materials and using minimal packaging. Additionally, employing Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) models optimises IT asset utilisation while reducing upfront investment and unnecessary hardware purchases.

Partnerships with sustainability-driven IT service providers can further enhance an organisation’s environmental impact. Working with partners that offer end-to-end IT asset management solutions, encompassing secure device deployment, certified data sanitisation and ethical recycling, simplifies the process of aligning IT operations with sustainability goals. Companies that prioritise environmental stewardship in their IT governance framework gain a competitive advantage by demonstrating their commitment to responsible business practices.

3. Energy consumption

Data centres, cloud services and enterprise networks require substantial energy resources, making green IT practices essential. IT governance frameworks should include policies to reduce consumption by optimising server efficiency, reducing redundant infrastructure and using renewable energy sources. Cloud providers with strong sustainability credentials can support carbon reduction initiatives, while virtualisation strategies can consolidate workloads and improve overall energy efficiency.

4. Employee engagement

Educating staff on sustainable IT practices, such as energy-efficient device usage and responsible e-waste disposal, creates a culture of accountability. Organisations that implement green workplace initiatives, such as responsible end-of-life disposal programs, reinforce their commitment to sustainability at all levels.

“IT governance must also align with corporate environmental, social and governance commitments. Companies can contribute to broader sustainability objectives by embedding environmental stewardship into IT policies, such as net-zero emissions targets and responsible supply chain management. Clear reporting mechanisms and regular sustainability audits aid transparency, letting businesses track their progress and demonstrate accountability to stakeholders,” Smith said.

Government regulations and evolving industry standards are increasingly shaping the sustainability expectations for organisations. Aligning IT governance frameworks with best practices for environmental stewardship keeps companies ahead of regulatory requirements. Proactive adoption of sustainable IT practices positions businesses as industry leaders in environmental responsibility.

Smith said, “Integrating environmental stewardship into IT governance frameworks is not just about meeting compliance obligations; it’s about futureproofing company operations and prioritising the broader environment. Taking a proactive approach to sustainability lets organisations drive efficiency, reduce long-term costs and contribute to a healthier planet. Businesses that lead in sustainable IT governance will be well-positioned for long-term success as environmental concerns continue to shape consumer and corporate priorities.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Petmal

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