Panasonic launches nickel-metal hydride batteries for solar applications

Panasonic Industry Europe has introduced its U-series nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, engineered to withstand challenging environmental conditions in solar-powered applications. These batteries are designed to support charging and discharging in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 85°C, providing a solution for equipment such as outdoor displays, street lighting, and environmental monitoring systems.

According to product manager Ikuo Katsumata, the company focused on enhancing lifespan and reducing self-discharge rates compared to standard battery types. The U-series is rated for a service life of 6 to 10 years. These units are IEC62133 certified and manufactured without cadmium or lead, facilitating simplified international shipping and environmental compliance.

One practical deployment of the technology includes shark-tracking GPS buoys off the Australian coast. In these systems, the batteries store surplus solar energy, ensuring that sensors remain operational in remote marine environments. The launch aims to address the demand for high-reliability energy storage in long-term autonomous field applications.