This is fascinating. As is with most things, if vanadium is shown to be the most efficient and forward path to sustainable energy, the politicization and greed that may accompany such a precious resource may also be its downfall. How do we protect and best use our resources?

Loved this analogy -

Vanadium batteries can be a reservoir of energy much in the same way as we use actual reservoirs to store rainwater for later use

Vanadium flow batteries are too big and heavy to replace the lithium batteries found in your phone, however. These batteries are instead used for large stationary long-term energy storage, or to supply remote areas, or provide backup power. They’re the basis for a more efficient, reliable, and cleaner electrical energy market