This New Approach Could Make 1 Company a Better Battery Bet

For the last few years, the mineral lithium has become synonymous with storing energy. Lithium's dominance in batteries has created what is called technology lock-in  –- preventing other potential technologies from gaining traction. But lithium is not a perfect solution for all things energy storage. A number of start-ups promoting alternative solutions are drawing the market's attention, with one in particular receiving a big vote of confidence from a well-heeled investor.

GRID ENERGY STORAGE CONTINUES TO GAIN TRACTION. IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES.

Utilities are using more and more renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to generate electricity. US solar pioneer NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE), for example, has seen its gross margins surge over the last 10 years by leveraging renewables, while US-based utility operator AES (NYSE: AES) has turned its business around by leaning more on renewables. However, solar and wind can't supply "baseload power," the always-there, minimum level of electricity needed to keep things running. 

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Source Fool.com