Lithium-Ion vs Lead-Acid: Eco Impact Compared
By Graham Mann | Published: 7/27/2025
Explore the environmental impacts of lithium-ion vs lead-acid batteries, comparing production, lifespan, recycling, and safety.
Lithium-Ion vs Lead-Acid: Eco Impact Compared Choosing between lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries for your home impacts cost, performance, and waste. Here’s what matters most: - Production: Lithium-ion batteries require more energy and water to produce but last longer. Lead-acid batteries have a simpler production process but need frequent replacements. - Lifespan & Efficiency: Lithium-ion batteries last 5,000–10,000 cycles (10–15 years) and are 90–95% efficient. Lead-acid lasts 500–1,000 cycles (5 years) with 80–85% efficiency. - Recycling: Lead-acid batteries are recycled at a 99% rate, while lithium-ion recycling lags at 15–50% due to limited infrastructure. - Safety: Lithium-ion risks overheating but newer types (LiFePO4) are safer. Lead-acid risks acid leaks and requires regular maintenance. Quick Comparison | Feature | Lithium-Ion (LiFePO4) | Lead-Acid | |---| --- |---| | Lifespan | 10–15 years | 5 years | | Cycle Life | 5,000–10,000 cycles | 500–1,000 cycles | | Efficiency | 90...
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