Rural Bangladesh: Zinc-Bromide Batteries Power Renewable Microgrids

Researchers analyzed the feasibility of hybrid renewable energy systems for electrifying remote villages in Bangladesh. The study, published August 11, 2025, in *Frontiers in Energy Research*, details simulations of solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) in five rural locations. Geographic isolation and limited infrastructure currently restrict electricity access in these areas. The team, comprised of researchers from several universities, used HOMER Pro software with actual hourly load profiles, solar irradiance, and wind speed data for modeling. Four battery types were compared: Zinc-Bromide Flow, Lithium-Ion NMC, Lead-Acid, and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄). The research indicates that a combined PV-WT system using Zinc-Bromide Flow batteries offers the most economical and environmentally sound solution. This configuration yielded the lowest Net Present Cost (NPC) at $171,720 and a Cost of Energy (COE) of $0.0688 per kilowatt-hour. The simulated system achieved a 100% renewable energy fraction, resulting in zero carbon emissions. Zinc-Bromide Flow batteries provide high efficiency and extended lifespans, potentially lasting up to 30 years, while requiring minimal maintenance. The study suggests that Zinc-Bromide-based hybrid microgrids could provide a sustainable, affordable, and scalable pathway to rural electrification in Bangladesh and other similar regions globally.