A US Sodium-Ion Battery Maker Challenges Powerwall

The article discusses the rising prominence of sodium-ion batteries as a competitive alternative to lithium-ion batteries, particularly Tesla’s Powerwall, in the US energy storage market. Rising electricity costs and shifts in federal energy policy have accelerated demand for energy storage solutions that complement rooftop solar, off-peak electricity rates, and virtual power plants. While lithium-ion batteries remain dominant, they face challenges such as safety concerns highlighted by a recent Tesla recall and lawsuit over overheating risks. In contrast, sodium-ion batteries offer advantages in cost, safety, and supply chain security due to the abundance and thermal stability of sodium, though they currently lag in energy density and lifespan. To address these limitations, the US Department of Energy launched the Sodium-ion Alliance for Grid Energy Storage (SAGES) in late 2024, a four-year initiative aimed at improving sodium-ion technology for grid-scale applications. Concurrently, private companies like Syntropic (formerly Emtel Energy) are advancing sodium-ion battery products tailored for various uses, including short