European Battery Regulation: Will Your Company Soon Be Subject to the UPV Requirements?

Sign up for one of the webinars on July 14 or 15

The European Battery Regulation (EU 2023/1542) brings about significant changes for companies that place batteries on the market. At first glance, this regulation may not seem relevant to many Fedecom members, but in practice, companies that import or market machines or vehicles equipped with batteries under their own name are likely to be subject to the new requirements. Together with Deloitte, Fedecom is organizing two webinars in July to provide clarity on this matter.

The regulation entered into force on February 18, 2024, and will be phased in over the coming years. It replaces the old Batteries Directive and introduces new requirements in the areas of sustainability, circularity, safety, information provision, and producer responsibility.

Classification of Batteries

The Battery Regulation distinguishes between different battery categories, some of which are subject to different obligations:

portable batteries;
start, light, and ignition (SLI) batteries;
batteries for light-duty vehicles (LMT), such as e-bikes;
industrial batteries;
batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).

For many Fedecom members, industrial batteries are particularly relevant—specifically, traction batteries in mobile machinery and vehicles. Examples include electric forklifts, material handling equipment, agricultural machinery, earth-moving equipment, and other mobile machinery.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?

An important part of the Battery Regulation is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This means that producers remain responsible for the batteries they place on the market, even after they have reached the end of their useful life. Companies classified as producers may be required, among other things, to:

to register as a producer;
to register and report batteries placed on the market;
organize the collection, treatment, and recycling of end-of-life batteries on their own, or contribute financially to a collective scheme;
to comply with information and reporting requirements to the competent authorities.

Fedecom provides clarity, in collaboration with Deloitte

It is highly likely that some Fedecom members will be subject to these UPV obligations. We have asked Deloitte to assist us in clarifying this matter and preventing members from receiving fines.

To kick things off, we are organizing two webinars in collaboration with Deloitte. During these sessions, we will explain what the UPV obligations entail, which companies may be subject to the regulations, and what obligations arise from them.

Register for the webinars

You can still easily sign up using these links.

After registering, you can participate via Microsoft Teams. You can choose one of the following times:

Do you manufacture or import batteries, electric machinery, or vehicles, or do you market them under your own brand name? If so, we recommend that you participate in one of these webinars. Even if you’re unsure whether the regulations apply to your business, participation is definitely recommended. We hope to welcome you online at one of these sessions!