The EU Batteries Regulation is part of a new type of EU legislation that covers the entire life cycle of a product, from raw materials to recycling.
The Regulation strengthens the functioning of the EU internal market, promotes the circular economy, and reduces the environmental and social impacts of batteries and accumulators.
The Regulation entered into force on 17 August 2023 and is expected to significantly change the battery sector in the long term. It replaces the 2006 Battery Directive and national legislation. The Regulation applies to all types of batteries and accumulators.
With the Batteries Regulation…
- collection targets for batteries are tightened
- new requirements are introduced for the recovery of collected batteries
- recycled battery materials are used to a greater extent
- raw materials from waste batteries are recovered more efficiently
- carbon footprint assessments are carried out for batteries and accumulators
- performance requirements are set for batteries
- distributors face new collection obligations
- the use of hazardous substances is reduced
- consumers and repairers are provided with information on battery manufacturing, performance, and composition via QR codes
- larger batteries are accompanied by a digital battery passport
The Batteries Regulation is already in effect, but many provisions have transitional periods. Producer responsibility provisions came into force on 8 August 2025.
Learn more about the Batteries Regulation