Lead-acid battery assembly technical regulations

What is the new battery regulation?

The Regulation entered into force on 17 August 2023 and repeals the Batteries Directive (Directive 2006/66/EC). It continues to restrict the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries and introduces a restriction for lead in portable batteries. It also aims to: reduce environmental and social impacts throughout the entire battery life cycle.

What is the IEC/EN Guide to Valve Regulated Lead-acid batteries?

This guide to IEC/EN standards aims to increase the awareness, understanding and use of valve regulated lead-acid batteries for stationary applications and to provide the ‘user’ with guidance in the preparation of a Purchasing Specification.

Are lead-acid batteries recyclable?

The targets for recycling efficiency of lead-acid batteries are increased, and new targets for lithium batteries are introduced, in light of the importance of lithium for the battery value chain. In addition, specific recovery targets for valuable materials – cobalt, lithium, lead and nickel – are set to be achieved by 2025 and 2030.

What are the regulations relating to batteries?

Annex I of the regulation lists restrictions for three substances, regardless of their incorporation into appliances. The restricted substances are as follows: a. Batteries should not contain more than 0.0005% of mercury by weight. b. Portable batteries should not contain more than 0.002% of cadmium by weight.

What are the new labelling requirements for batteries?

Labelling requirements will apply from 2026 and the QR code from 2027. The regulation amends Directive 2008/98/EC on waste management (see summary) and Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 on market surveillance and compliance of products (see summary). It repeals Directive 2006/66/EC on the disposal of spent batteries (see summary) from 30 June 2027.

What is the purpose of Article 6 of the battery regulation?

It also aims to: reduce environmental and social impacts throughout the entire battery life cycle. Article 6 of the Regulation sets out the framework to restrict hazardous substances in batteries. This ensures that substances used in batteries or present in waste batteries do not pose an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment.