DONGGUAN, China – Wiltson Energy, a leading Chinese innovator in LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) battery solutions, has officially launched its next-generation 26650-format low-temperature backup battery, specifically engineered to power solar tracking systems in extreme cold environments, operating reliably down to -40°F (-40°C). This development marks a significant advancement in ensuring stable solar energy production in harsh winter climates globally.
The new battery eliminates the need for external heating components, enabling direct charging and stable operation even below freezing temperatures, which traditionally pose significant challenges for conventional battery technologies.
Addressing the Challenges of Cold-Climate Solar Operations
Solar tracking systems are crucial for maximizing energy yield, capable of increasing output by 10% to 40% compared to fixed-mount systems by continuously aligning panels with the sun. However, their effectiveness in harsh winter conditions has often been hampered by battery performance degradation. Standard lead-acid batteries can lose 20%–30% of their capacity below 0°C (32°F), while typical lithium batteries risk reduced output or lithium dendrite growth during cold-weather charging. These issues frequently cause trackers to freeze or shut down during outages, negating the expected energy gains.
“Traditional battery systems either require preheating or shut down entirely in extreme cold, leaving trackers stuck and operators losing production,” stated Daniel Fan, Project Manager at Wiltson Energy. He added, “Our new 26650 LiFePO₄ low-temperature battery was engineered specifically for these conditions — it keeps solar trackers moving at –40°C without heating.”
Wiltson’s Innovative LiFePO₄ Battery Technology
Wiltson Energy’s latest offering boasts an ultra-wide operating range from –40°C (–40°F) to +60°C (140°F). Unlike many competing solutions that rely on heating elements or external warming circuits to maintain optimal temperatures for charging, Wiltson’s 26650 cells can be safely charged directly in sub-zero conditions. This design significantly reduces system cost and complexity while boosting overall efficiency.
Key Benefits of the New Battery
- Extreme Temperature Performance: Reliable operation across a vast range, making it ideal for cold-climate solar projects worldwide.
- Direct Cold-Weather Charging: Eliminates the necessity for heating controllers or circuits, streamlining installation and reducing energy consumption.
- High Power Output in Severe Cold: The battery maintains over 90% capacity at –40°C (–40°F), capable of supporting up to 5C discharge, which is crucial for maintaining full torque in tracker motors.
- Uninterrupted Tracking: Ensures solar panels remain optimally aligned with the sun even during severe cold or grid outages, preserving the 10%–40% generation advantage of solar trackers.
Robert Xie, CEO of Wiltson Energy, emphasized the broader impact of this innovation: “This innovation represents more than just a technical upgrade — it is a step toward making solar tracker technology reliable in every climate. By ensuring uninterrupted operation, we are helping customers maximize energy yield.”
The Significance for Global Solar Expansion
The ability to maintain consistent performance in extreme cold is a critical factor for the expansion of solar energy into previously challenging geographical regions. Solar PV systems in cold-climate regions face unique challenges, including low temperatures, heavy snowfall, and freezing rain, which can affect system movement and electronic components. By overcoming the battery limitations in these conditions, Wiltson Energy’s new technology contributes to the economic viability and environmental adaptability of solar tracking systems globally.
Headquartered in Dongguan, China, Wiltson Energy specializes in high-performance LiFePO₄ battery systems, with applications extending to renewable energy, electric transportation, robotics, and industrial energy storage. The launch of this low-temperature battery reinforces China’s role in advancing battery technology for diverse and demanding applications.
