Technology Overview

Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRFB) are a type of secondary battery used for electrical energy storage. VRFB stores energy in liquid electrolytes, with vanadium as the active element due to its ability to exist in four different oxidation states. This technology allows power and energy capacity to be scaled independently, making it ideal for short- to medium-duration stationary energy storage systems.

Technical Characteristics

VRFB offers several advantages, including deep discharge capability, no capacity degradation due to electrolyte mixing, and the ability to upgrade power and capacity over its lifetime. However, disadvantages include complex system design, the need for pumps and valves, and lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Independent scaling of power and capacity	Heavy electrolyte
Strong deep discharge capability	Requires additional pumps and valves
No capacity degradation	Lower energy density
Non-flammable electrolyte	Lower round-trip efficiency

The levelized cost of storage (LCOS) is estimated at approximately 0.05 €/kWh. Energy efficiency ranges from 70% to 85%, with overall round-trip efficiency between 75% and 90%.

Application in Vietnam

In Vietnam, there are currently no commercial-scale VRFB projects, and information on practical deployment remains limited. However, due to its long lifetime, safety, and scalability, VRFB is considered a promising future option, particularly as demand for renewable energy integration continues to grow.