As battery technology and usage evolve, particularly in relation to electric mobility and energy storage, it’s clear to see that demand for both batteries and their raw materials is rising rapidly. Being an indispensable source of energy – and a key tool in the energy transition – usage is forecasted to increase 14 times by 2030, with the EU making up 17% of total demand
Sustainable and circular – throughout the entire lifecycle
The new Batteries Regulation – in force since August 2023 – aims to reduce carbon footprint and to control the use of harmful substances, reducing dependence on raw materials and fuels from outside the EU whilst collecting, reusing and recycling within the EU where possible.
In parallel with the European Green Deal, this comprehensive European legislation is leading the way when it comes to capturing the entire lifecycle within a single law – from raw material sourcing to manufacture, usage, recycling and repurposing.
From raw materials to repurposing: the ongoing role of batteries in the energy transition
With batteries being critical to the energy transition, the new Regulation will start to introduce declaration requirements from 2025, along with performance classes and upper limits on the carbon footprint of electric vehicles, light transport and rechargeable industrial batteries.
There will be a clear focus on raw materials with regular reviews in place – both in relation to the content of harmful substances as well recycling efficiencies and targeted high levels of material recovery, with it being necessary to recycle all collected waste batteries.
The approach will place a spotlight on the use of the planet’s valuable resources such as cobalt, lithium and nickel – guaranteeing recovery at the end of their useful life. Furthermore, the new law’s due diligence obligations mitigate against negative environmental and social consequences by placing the onus on companies to identify, prevent and address such risks – particularly in relation to the sourcing, processing and trading of raw materials.
Digital passports and QR codes will be deployed to help both consumers and professionals navigate purchase decisions as well as how to best recycle or repurpose specific batteries.
To ensure that you are fully informed and ready for the latest legislative changes, you can review the full detail of the new regulations here.
