Factors responsible for the lo- ambient temperature conductivity of conventional Polymer electrolytes are discussed. Conductivity can be increased with the use of plasticizers which cause a decoupling of ionic motion from that of the polymer chain and increase ionic mobility by lowering the viscosity of the ionic environment. Several non-conventional electrolytes prepared in this fashion have exhibited conductivities of > 10(-3) S/cm at room temperature. Li/LiMn2O4 and C/LiNiO2 rechargeable cells fabricated with these solid polymer electrolytes have shown room temperature discharge rate capability reminiscent of their traditional liquid electrolyte counterparts.