TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Battery manufacturer PT Panasonic Gobel Energy Indonesia (PECGI) introduces its innovation in lead-free battery manufacturing. The company has been producing the lead-free battery since 2014.

“We are the first battery manufacturer in Indonesia that develop lead-free battery innovation,” Associate Director of PECGI, Hantara said on Thursday, June 11 at Panasonic plant in Cikarang, West Java.

According to Hantara, the company’s research and development effort has found replacement for the lead that functions to soften the zink.

Since 1991 and 1998, batteries produced by Panasonic are already free from mercury and cadmium content. Cadmium, mercury and lead are heavy metal that harm the environment without specific waste-handling process. These elements are also carcinogenic.

The batteries are produced in D, C, AA, and AAA sizes. The AAA size battery is used for remote controls.

Panasonic Gobel Indonesia Product Manager, Rika Novita is optimistic that AAA batteries will shine in 2015.

“Our target for its growth is two digits,” Rika said without spilling out specific number.

In addition to the lead-free battery, PT PECGI’s flagship battery feature is the metal jacket construction technology. Hantara claimed that tech is a solution to minimize leaking.

“It makes our battery safe for use, does not leak easily, and long-lasting,” Hantara said.

AMIRULLAH