Abstract: The plates of each polarity of an alkaline battery are connected by a sheet metal connector which passes through a slot in the bottom of a well formed in the battery lid, and which is supported by means of a pair of ears projecting from the connector which rest on the lid. Each connector is secured against vertical movement by abutment of the ears against the upper surface of the lid and by abutment of a respective plate strap to which each connector is welded against the lower surface of the lid. Horizontal movement in one plane is prevented by the provision of a shoulder on the lid on each side of each ear, and in the other plane by abutment of the connector, or the ears, against the edge of the well or a further shoulder respectively. The slots are sealed by means of a sealant which fills the wells. Upstanding ribs are provided on the upper surface of the lid so as to increase the length of the leakage path between neighboring cells.