SMALL SCALE ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS. A SHORT REVIEW IN THEIR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Regarding Small Scale Energy Storage Systems, large Pumped Hydro should be excluded because of its "bulk" capacity characteristic. Flywheels. Super Magnetic Energy Storage and Super-capacitors are considered environmentally friendly and briefly mentioned; therefore electrochemical means of EES systems such as batteries will be the central point of this paper. Batteries are identified as a problematic material in the waste stream. They are made from a variety of chemicals and some of these, such as nickel and cadmium, are extremely toxic and can cause damage to humans and environment. They can also cause soil and water pollution and endanger wildlife. Cadmium can cause damage to soil micro-organisms and affect the breakdown of organic matter. Other chemicals used in modern electrochemical batteries are discussed, along with any protective means of safe utilization with minimum environmental impact.