Bioelectrochemical Systems: Prioritizing Energy Density, Long-Term Stability, and Validation

Pioneering work in bioelectrochemistry, particularly the employing of yeast cells to generate electrical current, had substantially favored the comprehension of bioelectrochemical reactions. This foundational research has boosted the development of bioelectrochemical systems (BES), which are significant for sustainable energy solutions. BES technologies, such as biobatteries, biosupercapacitors, and enzymatic and microbial biofuel cells, harness organic and biological systems to provide environmentally-friendly alternatives for energy storage and conversion. Despite their potential, these technologies face challenges in achieving competitive energy densities and long-term stability compared to traditional accumulators and converters. Here, we introduce a new Ragone plot for BES, highlight the pathways to overcome key challenges, and compare BES with traditional technologies. A roadmap outlining future directions for BES development is also presented.