End-of-life EV batteries from Nissan Leaf electric cars are being used as part of a landmark energy storage system at Italy’s largest airport.

The reconditioned Nissan Leaf batteries are being used to supply 2.1MWh of energy storage to Enel’s large-scale pioneering system

Nissan has supplied 84 second-life Leaf batteries – totalling 2.1MWh of energy storage – for a battery energy storage system (BESS) for Aeroporti di Roma’s (ADR) Fiumicino Airport.

The ‘Pioneer’ initiative, co-funded by EU Innovation Funds, forms part of ADR’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2030 and demonstrates the potential of end-of-life EV technology to deliver clean, flexible energy beyond its use in vehicles.

In total, the BESS holds a capacity of 10MWh of electricity. Coupled with a solar farm, the system is expected to generate 31GWh of renewable electricity per year to provide reliable, clean power to the airport terminals, as well as flexible services to the airport grid.

The reused Gen 3 30kWh and Gen 4 40kWh LEAF batteries, sourced from high-mileage vehicles and warranty returns, have been requalified to meet strict safety and performance standards and supplied to system integrator Loccioni, which is responsible for harmonising them into Enel’s energy storage system. Nissan predicts the second-life batteries will remain operational for more than 6-7 years at the airport, even when used daily.

Soufiane El Khomri, Nissan energy director for the company’s Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region (AMIEO), said: “This project not only demonstrates the long-term viability of repurposed EV batteries in demanding environments, but underscores Nissan’s commitment to sustainable end-of-life battery management.

“Our team is involved in the technical integration of second-life batteries into the ESS, the simulation of battery lifespan, and providing warranties for their performance in the new system. Just as importantly, once the batteries reach the end of their useful life on this project, we take full responsibility for their recycling.”

Nissan has a history of successful collaborations with Loccioni and energy provider Enel. Similar energy storage projects such as the Melilla ESS in Spain and the Nomadic Lab ESS system have proved the effectiveness and reliability of Nissan’s second-life battery technology in providing stable, renewable energy solutions.

El Khomri added: “We are turning potential waste into valuable energy assets. Our re-use strategy not only supports large-scale industrial projects such as Aeorporti di Roma’s Fiumicino Airport, but also shows potential for use in the home such as backup during power cuts.

“As we continue to scale battery reuse and recycling, we are advancing our broader mission toward a cleaner, more energy-efficient future.”