While Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries have traditionally been the norm for powering our emergency lighting systems, at Whitecroft we've made a conscious decision to transition to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. The reasons go beyond efficiency; it is about making a positive impact on both the environment and our customers' experience.
LiFePO4 reduces embodied carbon output
LiFePO4 batteries are made from materials abundantly available, such as iron, whereas older technology batteries require rare metals that must be mined. We calculate that by switching to LiFePO4 batteries we will reduce our embodied carbon output by 6% each year, a saving that will also help lower the carbon footprint of our emergency lighting customers.
LiFePO4 batteries will also last longer, minimising waste and reducing the environmental impact when they must be disposed of. Unlike the constant current or pulse charging needed for Nickel-based batteries, LiFePO4 batteries only charge when necessary. They can also withstand more charge cycles than conventional batteries, extending battery life to up to eight years compared with only two to three years for NiCd alternatives.
Helps cut energy usage by up to 45%
Only charging when necessary, also reduces the energy use of our emergency lighting by up to 45%, which could result in a 10% annual saving in energy for lighting in a typical school. So switching to LiFePO4 not only reduces waste, it also reduces the amount of servicing and maintenance required.
By making this switch we are not just reducing our carbon footprint, but also minimising waste and supporting a sustainable future, which is why this initiative is a major part in Whitecroft’s commitment to building a sustainable future and supporting the transition to net-zero targets in the UK.
LiFePO4 batteries stay cooler, reducing risk of failure
LiFePO4 batteries also have excellent thermal and chemical stability compared to lithium-ion batteries, thanks to their unique chemical composition. This means Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries stay cooler in higher temperature applications, reducing the risk of failure.
If a LiFePO4 battery does experience an unexpected build-up of heat or pressure, a vent is opened, and the circuit is automatically broken to stop further charging and allowing the battery to cool. Whitecroft’s LiFePO4 batteries have a built-in management system called LiFeGuard that provides additional safety features to ensure batteries stay within safe operational limits.
Reduced maintenance and less wastage
Health and safety regulations require emergency lights to be tested every month, which normally means each unit has to be isolated and manually checked. There is also a duration test every year when each light is checked to ensure it can run independently for at least three hours.
Combining LiFePO4 battery technology with our Organic Response Portal or Whitecroft Connect will help reduce maintenance and wastage even further. These systems run automated tests on the emergency lighting system, providing detailed management data on performance.
Extended five-year warranty on LiFePO4 emergency lighting
To underscore our confidence in LiFePO4 technology, we have introduced an extended five-year warranty on all our emergency lighting systems. This commitment reflects our belief in the durability and longevity of LiFePO4 batteries, providing our customers with peace of mind and an assurance of quality.
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, LiFePO4 batteries represent a beacon of sustainability and innovation. By embracing this cutting-edge technology, we are not only enhancing the performance of our products, but also fulfilling our responsibility towards the planet and our customers.
Read more about LiFePO4 The best-performing emergency light battery:
https://www.whitecroftlighting.com/sustainability/lifepo4-emergency-light-battery/
"I’m Michael Govier, Head of Product and Market Innovation at Whitecroft Lighting. I lead the development of Whitecroft Lighting’s controls and emergency product ranges to provide products that help our partners deliver customer-centric and sustainable lighting solutions."
Get in touch with Michael at Michael.Govier@whitecroftlight.com
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