Vaduz new energy storage battery recycling

Why should Europe recycle lithium-ion batteries?

By recycling lithium-ion batteries, Europe can reduce its reliance on virgin raw materials, alleviating environmental burdens associated with mining and extraction. From a geopolitical perspective, battery recycling also paves the way to material sufficiency and supports local economies.

Can EV batteries be recycled in Europe?

Recycling nickel from EV and ESS batteries in Europe could replace the output of nearly 1 average-sized nickel mine (42 kt output per year) by 2030 and up to 3 mines by 2040. In terms of ore extraction, this could save 1.8 Mt of ores in 2030 and 6.6 Mt in 2040.

What is the minimum recycled lithium content in lithium-ion batteries?

The Battery Regulation has set the targets for minimum recycled lithium content in lithium-ion batteries at 6% by 2031 and 12% by 2036.

Will recycled cobalt meet the demand for EV batteries?

By 2030 already, recycled cobalt could meet up to 19% of the demand. As batteries with legacy chemistries higher in cobalt content reach end of life and cobalt demand from EV and ESS batteries start plateauing around 2035, the share of recycled cobalt relative to total demand is projected to double to 40% by 2035 and reach 53% by 2040.

Is battery recycling a good idea in Europe?

A T&E study finds battery recycling is Europe’s chance for resource sufficiency and a low-impact supply chain. More recycled battery materials - cobalt, lithium, manganese and nickel - will come from the electric cars (EV) stock and planned battery gigafactories across Europe.

Will end-of-life batteries make EVs?

End-of-Life batteries and scrap from battery gigafactories in Europe have potential to provide 14% of all lithium, 16% of nickel, 17% of manganese, and a quarter of cobalt demand by 2030 already. These materials will be enough to build between 1.3 and 2.4 million EVs locally in 2030, up to 10 mln in 2035, and up to 15 mln EVs by 2040.