The European battery regulation has come into force with the aim of ensuring sustainability, safety, and traceability across the entire value chain. While many of its provisions are already in effect, others will be implemented progressively over the coming years. The regulation establishes new standards for manufacturing, commercialisation, and recycling, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for the industry.

“If you do not comply with the regulation, you cannot sell in Europe. It is as simple as that,” warns Igor Cantero, Technical Director of AEPIBAL, regarding the implications of the new rules for manufacturers and importers. The regulation addresses critical aspects such as carbon footprint control, minimum recycled content, product safety, and battery traceability.

Technical Requirements and Mandatory Certifications

The regulation imposes six key technical requirements that all batteries must meet in order to enter the European market:

1. Restriction of hazardous substances: Strict limits are set on the use of toxic materials.
2. Carbon footprint calculation: Each battery must demonstrate its environmental impact throughout its entire lifecycle.
3. Minimum recycled content: A percentage of recycled materials must be incorporated into battery production.
4. Performance and durability: Manufacturers must guarantee quality standards that extend battery lifespan.
5. Replacement and repair: Batteries for portable devices and light electric vehicles must be easily replaceable.
6. Safety: Strict protocols are established to prevent risks such as explosions, fires, or other technical failures.

To ensure compliance with these criteria, the European Commission has defined a mandatory certification system. Cantero explains: “All technical documentation for batteries must be available for 10 years and undergo external verifications.” Without this certification, batteries cannot be sold in the European Union.

The Battery Passport: A New Standard for Traceability

One of the most innovative aspects of the regulation is the introduction of the Battery Passport, a digital document that will become mandatory from 2027, allowing consumers and regulators to track the origin, composition, and lifecycle of each battery.

“The Battery Passport is not just a document; it is proof that each battery complies with the required environmental and safety standards,” emphasises Cantero. This system will integrate key information via a QR code, including data on the materials used, recyclability, and carbon footprint.

While some of this information will be publicly accessible, restricted sections will only be available to regulatory bodies and recycling companies. The aim is to ensure transparency and prevent the use of materials from dubious sources, particularly critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt.

A Change That Comes at a Cost

Compliance with these new requirements will result in higher production costs. Not only due to the implementation of better practices, but also because of the certification processes involved. “You will have to account for every gram of CO₂ emitted throughout the battery’s lifecycle, from raw material extraction to recycling,” explains Cantero.

Moreover, manufacturers will be required to hire external auditors to verify product traceability, similar to existing quality standards such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001. “These certifications are mandatory. Without them, you cannot sell batteries in Europe,” reiterates the AEPIBAL Technical Director.

The regulation also introduces a strict sanctions regime, which includes fines and the immediate withdrawal from the market of non-compliant products. “This has already happened in Germany, where a domestic battery was forced off the market due to safety concerns,” notes Cantero.

An Opportunity or a Barrier for the Industry?

Despite the challenges, the regulation also opens new business opportunities. Companies that successfully adapt will be able to differentiate themselves through their commitment to sustainability and gain access to a highly regulated yet high-demand market.

The impact will not only be felt by European manufacturers but also by international producers wishing to enter the EU market. The requirement for traceability and carbon footprint reporting will force many companies to reassess their supply chains and adopt more sustainable practices.

“This regulation will not only protect the environment but will also make European batteries more competitive against Asian ones,” says Cantero. With these changes, Europe aims to lead the transition towards a cleaner and more responsible energy storage sector.

The clock is ticking. With some requirements already in force and others on the horizon, companies must act now to ensure compliance and remain competitive in the European market.