Demand for critical raw materials for the energy transition is growing rapidly. At the same time, Europe wants to reduce its dependence on imports and retain more value within its own economy. Battery recycling can play an important role in achieving both goals.
Recent research by TNO shows that the Netherlands is well placed to become an important hub in the European battery recycling value chain. The country already has strong capabilities in the collection, logistics and pretreatment of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries. The main opportunity for further development lies in scaling up the recovery of valuable raw materials.
The research shows that successful battery recycling depends on more than technology. Access to battery material, markets for recovered materials, energy supply, permits and cooperation across the value chain are all essential.
These findings are relevant to a wide range of companies and research organisations working on process technology, circular materials and critical raw materials. Many of the challenges identified also arise in other circular value chains that matter to Dutch and European industry.
The central message of the research is clear: industrial-scale battery recycling in the Netherlands could succeed if the right conditions are put in place and partners across the value chain work together to address the remaining barriers.
