In Europe, batteries are seen as a key to the decarbonization process and the shift towards zero-emission modes of transport. Demand for batteries is expected to grow by more than tenfold by 2030. At the same time, end-of-life batteries contain many critical raw materials that can be utilized to reduce the dependency on third countries for supplies.
A new regulation, adopted by the European Parliament and the EU Council shall promote the competitiveness of European industry and ensure new batteries are sustainable and contribute to the green transition. To assure this objective, it regulates entire lifecycle – from initial production to recycling of waste batteries. It lays down requirements on sustainability, safety, labelling, marking and information to allow the placing on the market or putting into service of batteries. Also, minimum requirements for extended producer responsibility, the collection and treatment of waste batteries and for reporting are included.

The regulation applies to all batteries including portable batteries, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, industrial batteries, starting, lightning and ignition (SLI) batteries (used mostly for vehicles and machinery) and batteries for light means of transport (e.g. electric bikes, e-mopeds, e-scooters).

The regulation shall apply from 18 February 2024, but specific requirements may have different dates based on text of the regulation. For example targets for producers to collect waste portable batteries and also a collection objective for waste batteries for light means of transport.
The target for recovery of lithium from waste batteries is 50% by the end of 2027 and 80% by the end of 2031, (which can be amended depending on the market situation and technological developments).
There are also mandatory minimum levels of recycled content for industrial-, SLI-  and EV batteries.

By 2027 portable batteries incorporated into appliances should be removable and replaceable by the end-user, while light means of transport batteries must be replaceable by an independent professional.

The labelling and information requirements, among others on the battery's components and recycled content, include an electronic “battery passport” and a QR code, The labelling requirements will apply by 2026 and the QR code by 2027.

For further information, please contact Marek.Papuzinski@nemko.com

(The article is based on EC announcement provided by Marek Papuzinskiand edited by T.Sollie)