New EU legislation on batteries at a glance

The new regulation is much broader and stricter than the original 2006 directive. It covers all types of batteries – from those in mobile phones and medical devices to batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Anyone who sells batteries or products containing batteries in the EU/EEA must comply with the new obligations. Otherwise, they risk not being able to sell their products on the market at all.

What's new in the EU Batteries Regulation?

• The new rules are being introduced gradually. Some have been in force since February 2024, others since August 2024, and more will follow in 2025, 2027 and beyond.
• The aim is to reduce harmful substances, lower the carbon footprint and increase the collection and recycling of batteries in the EU.
• The changes will affect the entire battery life cycle – from production to use and recycling.
• Introduction of a battery passport (phased in from 2027), which will contain important information about each battery.
• Due diligence: Manufacturers and producer responsibility organisations (PROs) must adopt and communicate due diligence policies for batteries. They are also required to establish management systems to support due diligence policies, identify and assess risks in the supply chain, and propose strategies to address identified risks. Third-party verification by a notified body is required. The due diligence obligation will take effect on 18 August 2025.

What does this mean for businesses?
Every company that manufactures, imports, distributes or uses batteries in its products must:

• Monitor new requirements and their deadlines.
• Cooperate with their suppliers and obtain the necessary data.
• Prepare technical documentation and comply with new labelling and sustainability requirements.
• Monitor compliance with other EU regulations – for example, in the areas of product safety, chemicals or waste management.

Failure to comply with the requirements may result in a ban on placing products on the market, problems during inspections or high fines.

More requirements will be added, such as mandatory carbon footprint reporting and mandatory recycled content in batteries. Companies must therefore think strategically: not only to comply with current regulations, but also to be prepared for future changes.