How Sodium-BasedSolutions are AdvancingSustainability, Safety, and Security
September 1, 2025
As the global demand for renewable energy storage systems continues to surge, the limitations and risks associated with Lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly evident. From ethical concerns surrounding mining practices to safety risks and theft vulnerabilities, the search for a more sustainable, secure, and safer alternative is intensifying. Sodium-based energy storage systems are emerging as a compelling solution, addressing critical issues related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics, operational safety, and theft resistance.
Sustainability & ESG Impact
Lithium-ion batteries have driven the green energy transition for over a decade, but the ecological and ethical costs of lithium extraction are raising red flags. Mining lithium from brine deposits in Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia - the 'Lithium Triangle' - requires approximately 2 million litres of water per ton of lithium produced, leading to severe water shortages in arid regions. 1 In Chile, mining operations consume up to 65% of the region’s water, impacting both local agriculture and indigenous communities. 2 In contrast, sodium is abundantly available in seawater and salt deposits, reducing reliance on destructive mining practices. Sodium extraction is less water-intensive, has a lower carbon footprint, and poses fewer environmental hazards. Furthermore, sodium batteries are easier to recycle than their lithium counterparts. While lithium batteries contain complex chemistries involving cobalt and nickel—both hazardous and costly to process—sodium batteries utilise non- toxic materials, simplifying recycling and reducing overall waste management costs. 3
Safety & Operational Stability
Lithium-ion batteries have been associated with thermal runaway incidents, resulting in fires and explosions. In South Korea, several grid-scale lithium-ion storage facilities have experienced catastrophic fires, prompting increased scrutiny over battery safety standards. 4 Sodium-based batteries, on the other hand, operate at lower voltages and are inherently non-flammable. They exhibit greater thermal stability, even under extreme conditions, minimising fire risks. This makes them particularly suited for applications in high-temperature regions or areas prone to electrical grid instability.
Theft Resistance & Security
Battery theft is a significant issue in regions like South Africa, where telecommunications companies report frequent incidents of lithium battery theft. Telkom reported over 1,800 battery thefts in a six-month period, with losses exceeding R450 million. 5 Vodacom similarly reported 62 lithium battery thefts per month, leading to
service outages and financial losses. 6 Sodium batteries, however, do not contain high-value metals like cobalt or nickel, making them less attractive targets for theft. Their larger size and heavier weight also complicate unauthorised removal and transport. Additionally, sodium battery systems can be equipped with integrated safety features that deter tampering, further enhancing security.
Sodium-based energy storage systems are poised to play a critical role in the next generation of sustainable energy infrastructure. By addressing the environmental pitfalls of lithium mining, offering greater safety and thermal stability, and mitigating theft risks, sodium batteries present a comprehensive solution to the evolving demands of the energy storage sector. As industries, governments, and consumers prioritise sustainability, security, and operational safety, the shift towards sodium-based systems is not just an alternative—it is a strategic imperative for a resilient and sustainable energy future.
