A new EU project is charging ahead to support Europe’s green transition by rethinking the way batteries are developed, produced, reused, and recycled. The CHARGE project focuses on shaping innovative, safe, and sustainable battery policies that align with the new EU Batteries Regulation, while accelerating the shift to a low-carbon, circular economy.
Batteries are essential to Europe’s energy future—crucial for storing renewable power, running electric vehicles, and reducing carbon emissions. CHARGE brings together regions from seven European countries, Finland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Spain, and Ukraine, to strengthen the battery value chain and promote long-term, sustainable growth through smarter policy solutions.
Led by the Baltic Institute of Finland, the project aims to improve regional and interregional policy instruments by engaging stakeholders across the entire battery lifecycle. Public authorities, research institutes, and private companies will collaborate to exchange best practices, develop new products and services, and better access international markets.
By fostering interregional learning, CHARGE addresses key regional development questions: How can green logistics and renewable energy reduce local emissions? How can battery innovation support circular economy goals? And how can businesses adapt to meet EU regulatory standards?
The project also works to enhance innovation capacity by creating stronger networks between regions. Through cooperation and knowledge sharing, CHARGE will help build the foundation for a competitive, sustainable battery industry that supports Europe’s broader climate and energy ambitions.
Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is one of the fundamental pillars of circular economy for batteries, and this principle is also set to play a prominent role in CHARGE. The project has been co-developed by the experts of the Baltic Institute of Finland and Johanna Alakerttula, CEO of Akkukierrätys Oy.
With a powerful partnership and a clear focus on green energy, circularity, and interregional collaboration, CHARGE is set to play a vital role in powering Europe’s sustainable battery future.
Contact person:
Johanna Vannes
Lead Partner
The Baltic Institute of Finland
johanna.vannes@tampere.fi
Read more about the topic on the CHARGE project’s website.
