Lithium-Ion vs. Lead-Acid vs. Tubular Gel: Which Battery Will Power India’s Renewable Ambitions?
As India advances toward its 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030, dependable energy storage is at the heart of the transition. While solar panels are now widespread, the real challenge is storing solar energy for use after sunset or during cloudy days. The three primary battery technologies in the market today - Lead-Acid, Lithium-Ion, and Tubular Gel (T-Gel) - each offer unique benefits and trade-offs. Here’s a fact-based comparison to help you understand which technology aligns best with India’s evolving energy needs. The Contenders: An Overview Lead-Acid Batteries: The Traditional Workhorse Lead-acid batteries have been used for decades in backup and off-grid applications. These batteries use lead plates and liquid sulfuric acid, offering low upfront costs and established recycling infrastructure. However, they are heavy, require regular maintenance (such as water top-ups), and typically last 3–5 years. Their limited depth of discharge ( shouldn’t go belo...