On July 28, 2023, the EU introduced a new battery regulation, (EU) 2023/1542, replacing the 2006/66/EC directive. Effective from August 17, 2023, the new regulation aims to harmonize battery management across the EU by transitioning from a “Directive” to a “Regulation.” This shift ensures consistent implementation across all member states, reducing regulatory conflicts and uncertainties.
The new regulation comprehensively oversees the entire battery lifecycle, from production to reuse and recycling, with significant implications for battery-related businesses. It covers all battery categories, including portable, light means of transport (LMT), starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI), industrial, and electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
Key points include:
- Regulated Battery Types:
- Portable Batteries: Sealed, not exceeding 5kg, and not for industrial use.
- LMT Batteries: Sealed, not exceeding 25kg, for wheel-based vehicles.
- SLI Batteries: For vehicle ignition, lighting, or starting purposes.
- Industrial Batteries: For industrial use, weighing over 5kg.
- EV Batteries: For hybrid or electric vehicles, weighing over 25kg.
- Lifecycle Requirements:
- Sustainability and Safety: Restrictions on hazardous substances, carbon footprint, recycled materials, performance, durability, and safety.
- Labeling and Information: From August 2026, batteries must display manufacturer information, battery type, chemical composition, capacity, and other essential details. From 2027, batteries must include a QR code containing specific information.
- Collection Symbols: From August 2025, all batteries must have a collection symbol, indicating hazardous substances if applicable.
- Harmful Substance Limits:
- Mercury: ≤5 ppm
- Cadmium: ≤20 ppm
- Lead: ≤100 ppm
- Carbon Footprint:
- Gradual implementation of carbon footprint requirements for EV batteries, LMT batteries, and rechargeable industrial batteries over 2KWh.
- Digital Battery Passport:
- From February 2027, LMT batteries, industrial batteries over 2KWh, and EV batteries must have an electronic record (battery passport) accessible via a QR code, detailing production, carbon footprint, and other relevant information.
This regulation sets clear requirements for carbon footprint, battery recycling, use of recycled materials, and due diligence, posing challenges for battery manufacturers concerning data security and supply chain transparency.