Latest policy on energy storage for retired automotive batteries

How can a retired battery treatment be optimized economically and environmentally?

Based on the process-based life cycle assessment method, we present a strategy to optimize pathways of retired battery treatments economically and environmentally. The strategy is applied to various reuse scenarios with capacity configurations, including energy storage systems, communication base stations, and low-speed vehicles.

Can retired electric vehicle batteries be recycled?

Reuse and recycling of retired electric vehicle (EV) batteries offer a sustainable waste management approach but face decision-making challenges. Based on the process-based life cycle assessment method, we present a strategy to optimize pathways of retired battery treatments economically and environmentally.

When should batteries retire from an EV?

To sum up, the point at which batteries should retire from an EV should be re-considered by analyzing the trade-offs between demand and supply in the new revolving economy system. As in human life, planning for the retirement of the EV battery packs starts with thinking about their retirement goals and how long they have to meet them.

Are retired batteries safe to use?

Inappropriate handling of retired batteries may lead to environmental pollution, resource losses, increased waste management pressures, reduced energy security, and intensified supply chain risks 10. To mitigate these risks, scientific and industrial communities advocate for the reuse and recycling of retired batteries 11, 12.

What are the pathway decisions for retired EV batteries?

The pathway decisions for retired EV batteries address the lifecycles of battery research, manufacturing, reuse, recycling, and third-party services. Multiple parties can be associated with different interest concerns, forming a complex decision model.

What is a battery reuse strategy?

The strategy is applied to various reuse scenarios with capacity configurations, including energy storage systems, communication base stations, and low-speed vehicles. Hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical, and direct recycling considering battery residual values are evaluated at the end-of-life stage.