Why is there a new Battery Regulation?
The old Battery Directive came into force in 2006. At that time, some batteries were not yet widely used in our daily lives, such as batteries for electric cars, e-bikes and e-scooters. In addition, there is a sharp increase in electrical devices such as smartphones, wireless headphones and laptops. This rapid increase in the use of different batteries prompted the EU to introduce the new Battery Regulation. On August 18, 2025, the key provisions of the new Battery Regulation (EU 2023/1542) will come into force in all EU member states, replacing the previous Battery Directive from 2006.
From a Directive to a Regulation – What does that mean?
The main difference between a directive and a regulation in EU law lies in their direct applicability and the degree of harmonisation. A regulation is directly applicable law in all member states, whereas a directive sets out objectives that the member states must implement through national legislation.
The fact that the EU has turned a directive into a regulation alone demonstrates the importance of this innovation.
What will change with the new regulation?
The EU is pursuing several key objectives with the new Battery Regulation:
- Reduction of environmental impact
- Longer service life through better design
- Promotion of recycling and raw material recovery
- Harmonization in the EU internal market
New Classification of Battery Categories
As the number of (different) batteries has grown rapidly over the years, one of the biggest changes in the new Battery Ordinance is therefore the classification of battery categories.
In addition to portable batteries (≤5 kg), as found in household appliances, the regulation distinguishes between the following categories
- LMT batteries (≤25 kg): for light means of transportation such as e-scooters or e-bikes
- EV batteries (>25 kg): for hybrid and electric vehicles
- SLI batteries: for starting, lighting and ignition in vehicles and machines
- Industrial batteries (>5 kg): e.g. for communication, industry or agriculture
- Energy storage batteries (ESS): for stationary storage, often in combination with solar systems
The most important requirements for producers
1. Registration obligation & market surveillance
All manufacturers, importers and distributors (“producers” according to the law) must register in the respective EU member states and submit regular quantity reports. Stricter controls across the EU also apply – violations can lead to high fines or sales bans.
2. Labelling & Compliance Documentation
From the effective date onward, only batteries with specific labelling, e.g. QR codes or symbols, may be placed on the market.
3. Supply Chain Due Diligence
Companies with annual battery-related revenues exceeding €10 million must establish a due diligence system.
4. PRO and Collection Targets
By August 2025, companies must provide systems through which end users can return batteries free of charge.
The EU sets concrete collection targets:
- 63% for portable batteries by the end of 2027
- 51% for LMT batteries (e.g. e-bikes) by the end of 2028
5. Product Design & Recyclability
From 2027, batteries must be designed for easy removal and recyclability. Besides, the use of recycled raw materials (e.g., cobalt, lead, lithium) will be mandatory.
What producers have to do now
If your company is already registered with a recognized PRO (Producer Responsible Organisation) in the EU countries, where you sell your products, important basic requirements have been met. In this case, you have already integrated important EU requirements into your sustainability and recycling strategy and fulfil take-back, information and due diligence obligations.
If you are not registered with a PRO and/or need more information to better deal with the complexity of this new European Regulation, don’t hesitate to contact PRONEXA via our Quick Obligation Check. PRONEXA will support you on the correct allocation of your products, to meet your compliance obligations across all 30 European countries.