This Technical Note is a 2019 update on the current state of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology. It describes the basic functional elements of Li-ion battery cells, compares several existing and emerging lithium-ion battery technologies, and provides a brief overview of safety, testing, and transportation issues involved in designing products with lithium-ion batteries.

This Technical Note is part one of a three-part series. Parts II and III provide additional depth regarding Li-ion safety, testing, and transportation as these relate to off-grid products.

This document was produced by Lighting Global Quality Assurance. In February 2020, Lighting Global Quality Assurance evolved to become VeraSol, an independent program offering quality assurance services for solar energy kits and off-grid appliances.