As battery technology rapidly evolves and finds widespread application, the EU has introduced new battery regulations (2023/1542) aimed at enhancing the environmental and safety standards of battery products. The regulation includes a series of requirements such as control of hazardous substances, carbon footprint, CE conformity assessment, labeling requirements, and due diligence, with phased implementation. Here are the key details and points that need to be implemented by the upcoming critical date of August 18, 2024.

Limitation of Hazardous Substances

The new EU regulations strictly limit the use of hazardous substances in batteries. Specific requirements include:

• REACH Regulation: Compliance with restricted substances listed in Annex XVII.
• End-of-Life Vehicles Directive (Directive 2000/53/EC): Lead ≤0.1%, Mercury ≤0.1%, Hexavalent Chromium ≤0.1%, Cadmium ≤0.01%.
• Battery Directive: Mercury ≤0.0005%, Cadmium ≤0.002% (portable batteries), Lead ≤0.01% (portable batteries).

Electrochemical Performance and Durability

All rechargeable industrial batteries, electric vehicle batteries, and light mobility tool batteries with a capacity greater than 2kWh must provide detailed electrochemical performance and durability parameters to demonstrate compliance with EU standards.

Safety of Stationary Battery Storage Systems

To ensure safety, stationary battery storage systems must prepare a safety technical file that includes:

• Prevention labeling (against fire or explosion).
• Proof of tests to eliminate safety hazards.
• Complete safety parameters, such as thermal shock and cycling, external short circuit protection, etc.
• Assessment of safety hazards.

Labeling, Marking, and Information Requirements

All batteries must clearly indicate the content of lead and cadmium and provide detailed parameters on the health status and expected lifespan for stationary storage systems, LMT batteries, and EV batteries.

Battery Management Systems

From August 18, 2024, all stationary storage systems, LMT batteries, and electric vehicle batteries must be equipped with a battery management system capable of storing and providing key data on battery health status and expected lifespan.

CE Conformity Assessment Procedures

All battery products must undergo a CE conformity assessment, including:

• Submission of a declaration of conformity.
• Preparation of technical documentation covering company and battery basics, manufacturing processes, performance/safety parameters, labeling, etc.
• Provision of test reports.

Later, battery companies will also need to fulfill additional obligations:

• Carbon Footprint: Monitor and report on carbon emissions during battery production and usage.
• Use of Recycled Materials: Promote the use of recycled materials to reduce dependence on virgin resources.
• Waste Battery Recycling: Establish an effective recycling and reuse system to ensure environmentally friendly disposal of waste batteries.

To ensure effective enforcement of all regulations, the EU will conduct continuous market surveillance, including:

• Random routine checks: Sampling and testing of products.
• Market monitoring: Ensuring all market participants comply with regulations.
• Checking compliance of markings, labels, and documentation.
• Verifying that companies handle complaints properly and monitor incidents.

Strategies for Compliance

To help companies transition smoothly and comply with new regulations, CIRS C&K Testing advises:

• Early Compliance Assessment: Assess the gap between existing products and new regulations, and adjust early.
• Enhanced Supply Chain Management: Ensure raw material supplies meet new environmental and social responsibility standards.
• Technology Upgrades: Invest in new technologies to meet increased performance and safety requirements.
• Continuous Education and Training: Ensure teams are aware of all new regulatory requirements and changes.

CIRS C&K Testing is committed to supporting your business through this transformation to maintain competitiveness and ensure your products not only comply with regulatory requirements but also lead in the market. For further consultation or services, please contact our expert team.

CIRS C&K Testing offers comprehensive one-stop compliance and testing services for the new EU Battery Regulation, helping you effortlessly navigate the complexities of compliance. If you have any questions about battery testing services or need more information on compliance, please don't hesitate to contact us at test@cirs-group.com.

Further Information

EU Battery Testing Service

CE Battery Certification Service

Battery Carbon Footprint Service