September 26, 2025: The Consortium for Battery Innovation has said a VRLA-focused battery reliability project, commissioned by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is set to be completed by the end of this year.
The CBI confirmed last May that the 15-month project, looking at VRLA batteries used in Class 1E safety systems at nuclear power plants, was underway.
As part of the initiative, CBI convened an expert advisory group made up of the leading manufacturers of nuclear-grade back-up batteries in the US and Europe.
Companies include EnerSys, C&D Trojan, East Penn Manufacturing, Stryten Energy, and Hoppecke — all of which have deep expertise and long-standing experience in supporting critical infrastructure, CBI said.
The advisory group has been offering technical feedback and industry insight, ensuring work is grounded in real-world needs and challenges, particularly as nuclear facilities continue to demand highly reliable, long-duration back-up power.
Seismic and durability requirements of VRLA batteries and their existing use in safety critical backup applications have been showcased in the project.
By analyzing failure modes, monitoring techniques, and mitigation strategies, the project aims to provide the regulator with a clearer understanding of current capabilities and future needs for VRLA battery systems in nuclear safety roles, CBI said.
The findings will help support regulatory decisions and guide future standards development, while also informing utilities and manufacturers about best practices for long-term battery performance and reliability.
CBI said its leadership in the study reflects its commitment to supporting advanced lead battery research in critical sectors. With nuclear energy playing an essential role in the clean energy transition, ensuring the integrity of safety-related back-up power systems has never been more important.
Currently in the US, flooded or vented lead batteries are the technology of choice.
CBI said the project’s final report, due in December with release to the public later, will give clear guidelines toward the formation of a new use standard for VRLA in Class 1 E.
