Sony has some new technology in the battery category that looks like it will be making its way into our hands soon. Due to its use of an olivine-type lithium iron phosphate for the cathode material, the battery's overall lifespan is about four times that of conventional lithium ion batteries, not to mention provide an 80% capacity retention after 2,000 charge-discharge cycles and perhaps most impressively, a promised 99% recharge in just 30 minutes.

This is a real improvement in battery technology. This type of fast recharge and power retention helps with renewable energy systems that rely on sources that vary day to day like wind. Wind power is the most environmentally friendly and gives the largest yield over the entire lifespan of the equipment compared to other renewable sources. However, not having a good way to store the energy is a road block for many small scale situations, preventing them from using wind as a power source.

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