LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
LiFePO4 batteries offer an energy- efficient, environ mentally responsible and long-lasting solution for emergency lighting applications
can make LiFePO4 a cost-effective choice in the long run. Given its proven use in everyday devices like mobile phones, laptops, and power tools, LiFePO4 technology is a well-tested and reliable solution. Our decision as a company,
How battery innovation is enhancing emergency lighting
More efficient, easy to recycle and longer-lasting, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries offer a number of advantages for emergency lighting applications. Richard Raeburn explains why they also represent a practical step for companies looking to reduce their carbon emissions.
Richard Raeburn
Senior application engineer at Tridonic
www.tridonic.com T
raditionally, emergency lighting systems have relied on nickel cadmium (NiCd) and nickel metal hydride
(NiMH) batteries, but lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is emerging as a more popular and efficient choice in the sector. LiFePO4 batteries have become the preferred modern solution in emergency lighting due to their efficiency and additional benefits compared to older technologies. Governments and industry bodies are increasingly encouraging or mandating the adoption of technologies that minimise hazardous waste and carbon footprints, and new regulations, such as the European Union’s Battery Directive, are driving the transition away from hazardous materials like cadmium, further supporting the move to LiFePO4 batteries.
The planet-friendly choice Unlike NiCd and NiMH batteries, LiFePO4 technology is free of heavy metals, making it safer to handle and environmentally friendly at end-of-
EIBI | FEBRUARY 2025
life disposal. Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries can be recycled, allowing recovery of materials like graphite, iron, and copper used in electrodes, wiring, and casings, which significantly reduces ecological impact. They are also made from common materials that require less energy to mine and process than NiCd and NiMH alternatives, offering a more sustainable choice from the outset. Another important factor is energy
efficiency. LiFePO4 batteries have a lower self-discharge rate, requiring only periodic top-ups rather than the constant charging necessary for nickel-based batteries. They also feature the lowest trickle charge rate of any emergency battery option, reducing the power needed to maintain full capacity when not in active use. Compared to nickel-based alternatives, nickel cadmium batteries consume 54% to 86% more power than LiFePO4, and nickel metal hydride batteries use 15% to 19% more. This makes LiFePO4 the most efficient option, using minimal power to operate effectively.
Lifespan and maintenance LiFePO4 also offers a clear advantage in lifespan and maintenance. With an eight-year design life, these batteries last twice as long as nickel-based options, which generally need
replacement every four years. This extended lifespan reduces the need for replacements, which is highly beneficial for facilities managers planning maintenance schedules and seeking long-term savings. Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries are robust and versatile, providing the flexibility required for a variety of LED applications, including emergency lighting. Their smaller size and higher energy content make them a particularly attractive option compared to their nickel-based counterparts.
An additional benefit is the
LiFePO4 battery’s ability to perform consistently across a wider range of temperatures, making them suitable for challenging environments, such as areas with high ambient heat. Their compact and lightweight design also facilitates increased integration into modern LED lighting systems, which often require smaller form factors, without sacrificing performance.
Industry adoption Despite these numerous advantages, some scepticism around LiFePO4 technology remains, which may stem from cost considerations. While initial costs are higher than nickel-based batteries, the savings realised through lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance
to end the sale of NiCd and NiMH batteries in the UK by the end of April 2025 is a clear demonstration of our commitment to sustainability and innovation. We are dedicated to providing safer, more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions, and this initiative comes as part of Tridonic’s broader global strategy to align with environmental goals and contribute to a circular economy, in which products are designed for durability, reuse and recyclability. As battery technology continues to
evolve, LiFePO4 batteries represent the beginning of a new era for emergency lighting solutions. Without doubt, they stand out as the most energy-efficient, environmentally responsible and long-lasting solution for emergency lighting applications. Facilities managers aiming to lower operational costs and ecological impact will find LiFePO4 technology a compelling alternative to traditional nickel-based batteries. With its proven efficiency and durability in common electronics, the adoption of LiFePO4 batteries in emergency lighting systems is a logical and forward- looking choice. There is no doubt that this is an
exciting time for the development and furtherance of technology in this area, with future enhancements expected in the areas of integration, predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring. For organisations pursuing net-zero carbon goals, the adoption of LiFePO4 technology is a practical step toward reducing carbon emissions, aligning emergency lighting systems with broader sustainability strategies that work towards a Net Zero future. The adoption of LiFePO4 batteries
is a core part of Tridonic360, a campaign built around the pillars of Places, People, Products, Projects and Sustainable Solutions. By aligning product innovation with sustainability goals, Tridonic is not only transforming its product offerings but also creating a roadmap for the industry to follow. Through the Tridonic360 campaign, customers can access tailored resources, from product guides to case studies, to help them understand the benefits of LiFePO4 batteries and integrate them seamlessly into their emergency lighting systems. ■
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