Unlike normal alkaline batteries, which can only be used once and are a waste to the environment, these batteries can be recharged up to 1,000 to 1,600 times and have an automatic discharge control system that retains 80% of the original charge for up to 12 months in storage. These batteries are special for cordless phones and are very common in our home, whether for TV remotes, air conditioners, scales or electronic wall clocks. * Batteries should not be thrown away, they should be taken to a recycling centre.