Since 2009, the German Battery Act (BattG) has regulated the disposal of used batteries and accumulators. This era will end on August 18, 2025 – on this date, the new EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 will come fully into force, completely replacing the previous EU Battery Directive 2006/66/EC.
The new regulation is directly applicable in all member states and requires national implementation. In Germany, this is planned through the new Battery Implementation Act (BattDG). A draft version dated May 27, 2025 is currently available, but it is considered unlikely that the law will come into force by August 18, 2025.
- EU: The Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 will apply EU-wide from 18 August 2025, replacing Directive 2006/66/EC.
- Germany: Implementation is planned through the new Battery Act (BattDG); currently, only a draft dated 27 May 2025 is available.
Key Changes:
- New battery categories (five in total)
- Extended take-back obligations for all categories
- Mandatory declaration of chemical composition and tax ID
- Municipal take-back obligation for e-bike and e-scooter batteries
- Automatic registration approval after 12 weeks
The New EU Battery Regulation: Background and Objectives
Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 came into force in August 2023 and has been partially applicable since 18 August 2024. It pursues ambitious goals: more recycling, higher collection rates, improved product responsibility, and more sustainable manufacturing. Full application begins on 18 August 2025, marking the end of the transitional period under Directive 2006/66/EC.
Germany: Implementation via the New Battery Act (BattDG)
The current Battery Act (BattG) does not reflect the requirements of the new EU regulation, necessitating a new national law. A draft of the new BattDG was published on 27 May 2025. However, due to a change in government, the legislative process had to restart. It remains uncertain whether the Bundestag and Bundesrat will adopt the law in time.
In the event of delays, the EU Battery Regulation will still apply directly from 18 August 2025.
Key Updates in BattDG and the EU Regulation Effective 18.08.2025
New Battery Categories:
- Appliance batteries
- LV batteries (Light Vehicle – e.g., e-scooters, e-bikes)
- Starter batteries
- Electric vehicle batteries
- Industrial batteries
Extended Take-Back Obligations:
- A mandatory nationwide take-back solution will be required for all categories.
- Manufacturers must either join a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) or offer an equivalent in-house solution.
Expanded Information Requirements:
- Manufacturers must declare the chemical composition of each battery.
- Additionally, the tax ID must be provided.
Municipal Collection Obligations:
- From 18.08.2025, recycling centers must also accept LV batteries (e-scooters, e-bikes).
Automatic Registration Approval:
- Registration applications will be deemed approved after 12 weeks if submitted completely and no response is received from the Stiftung ear within that period.
What Does This Mean for Manufacturers and Retailers in Germany Starting August 2025?
- Anyone placing batteries or accumulators on the market for the first time must comply with stricter requirements – regardless of whether national implementation has been completed by then.
- This also applies to online retailers and importers from abroad, as EU law takes direct effect.
- Take-back systems must be reorganized both legally and operationally to meet the expanded requirements.
Conclusion and Outlook
The reform of battery legislation at both EU and national levels is profound. The deadline of August 18, 2025 introduces numerous obligations for manufacturers, retailers, and collection points. Even if the German BattDG is delayed, the EU regulation will still apply directly and be binding.
We recommend that companies prepare early and review all internal processes and product data.
If you have questions or need assistance, Deutsche Recycling GmbH is happy to support you.
