EU Battery Regulation: Everything You Need to Know (Update 2025)
As of February 18, 2024, the new EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542) is in effect. It replaces the previous EU Directive 2006/66/EC and is part of the European Green Deal. The goal is to improve battery sustainability, strengthen the circular economy, and standardize regulations across the EU.
Unlike the old directive, which had to be transposed into national law by each member state, the new regulation is directly applicable in all EU countries but allows room for national adjustments. In Germany, the existing Battery Act (BattG) will be replaced by the Battery Law Implementation Act (BattDG) on August 18, 2025.
For Quick Readers
The new EU Battery Regulation replaces the previous directive, focusing on sustainability, recycling, and transparency. Companies must adapt to new regulations, including the introduction of new battery categories, mandatory CO₂ disclosure from 2025, and stricter collection quotas. Additionally, new labeling requirements apply, such as QR codes and a digital battery passport to improve traceability. From 2027, batteries must be easier to replace, and spare parts must remain available for at least five years. The regulation includes several deadlines that businesses must carefully follow to remain compliant.
Key Changes at a Glance
The new EU Battery Regulation introduces numerous changes affecting the entire battery lifecycle, including stricter requirements for manufacturing, usage, and recycling. Key aspects include:
- New Battery Categories: In addition to existing battery types, new categories have been introduced, including batteries for light vehicles (e.g., e-bikes) and traction batteries for electric vehicles.
- CO₂ Footprint: From February 18, 2025, manufacturers must disclose the carbon footprint of their batteries. By 2033, CO₂ limits will be introduced.
- Increased Collection Targets: The collection rate for portable batteries must rise to 73% by 2030. For light vehicle batteries, targets are 51% by 2028 and 61% by 2031.
- Minimum Recycled Content: From 2028, manufacturers must document the recycled material content in batteries. Minimum requirements for cobalt, lithium, nickel, and lead will apply from 2031.
- Battery Replaceability: From 2027, consumers must be able to remove and replace portable batteries themselves. Stricter replaceability rules also apply to other battery types.
- Extended Labeling Requirements: Batteries must feature QR codes containing essential information on capacity, durability, and recycling. From August 2025, labeling with the “Separate Collection” symbol will be mandatory.
- Digital Battery Passport: This will be mandatory for certain battery types from 2027 and will provide information on origin, CO₂ footprint, and material composition.
- New Due Diligence Obligations: Companies with revenue exceeding €40 million must implement additional supply chain monitoring measures.
New Battery Categories
The classification of batteries has been expanded to reflect technological advancements. In addition to portable, industrial, and automotive batteries, the following new categories have been introduced:
- Portable Batteries: Sealed batteries under 5 kg that are not used for industrial purposes (e.g., AA, AAA, or button cells).
- Light Vehicle Batteries (LV Batteries): For e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar vehicles, with a maximum weight of 25 kg.
- Automotive Batteries (SLI): Batteries used for starting, lighting, and ignition in vehicles.
- Industrial Batteries: Batteries over 5 kg intended for industrial applications.
- Electric Vehicle Batteries: Batteries used in electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Stationary Energy Storage Systems: Batteries used to store energy in homes or businesses.
CO₂ Footprint and Recycling Targets
A key objective of the new regulation is reducing the carbon footprint of batteries. From February 18, 2025, manufacturers must disclose their batteries’ CO₂ emissions. Over the coming years, emission limits and CO₂ performance classes will be introduced.
Recycling targets have also been tightened to recover valuable raw materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Collection targets for used batteries will gradually increase:
- Portable Batteries: 63% by 2027, 73% by 2030.
- Light Vehicle Batteries: 51% by 2028, 61% by 2031.
Manufacturers must provide collection systems for all battery types, regardless of their condition.
New Labeling Requirements and QR Codes
The regulation introduces strict labeling requirements to provide consumers with more transparency. From 2026, batteries must display information on capacity, durability, and recyclability.
A QR code will become mandatory in 2025, linking to further product information. Additionally, batteries must be marked with the “Separate Collection” symbol to indicate proper disposal.
Battery Replaceability
To improve device repairability, batteries in electronic devices must be easily removable and replaceable by consumers from 2027. Additionally, spare parts must remain available for at least five years after a product is sold.
For light vehicle batteries, replacement must be carried out by a qualified professional.
Digital Battery Passport: Greater Transparency in the Supply Chain
A major feature of the new regulation is the introduction of a digital battery passport. This will be mandatory for certain battery types from 2027 and will contain key details, including:
- Origin and composition of materials.
- CO₂ footprint and recycled content.
- Durability and performance characteristics.
This initiative aims to enhance traceability throughout the battery’s lifecycle.
