Panasonic expands Ni-MH battery line for solar-powered industrial use

Panasonic Industry Europe has introduced its U-series nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of solar-powered infrastructure. These batteries are intended for use in devices such as street lights, advertising displays, and buoy systems where consistent power is required despite fluctuating environmental conditions.

The U-series, which includes five models with capacities ranging from 550 mAh to 12,000 mAh, supports operating temperatures between -20°C and 85°C. Panasonic notes that the cells maintain stable charge characteristics even at 75°C, effectively extending the projected service life to between six and ten years.

Compliance with IEC62133 standards ensures the batteries meet safety requirements without the use of hazardous substances like cadmium or lead. This design choice also exempts them from certain IATA transport restrictions. The technology is already being utilized in specialized applications, such as shark-tracking GPS buoys, where reliable energy storage from solar cells is essential.

"We have continued developing our rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries, which are ideal for use in harsh operating conditions," said Ikuo Katsumata, chief engineer at Panasonic Industry, highlighting the company’s focus on long-term performance.