2. Evaluating the recycling potential of lithium-ion batteries

Activity 2 will evaluate the recycling economic value and recycling potential of selected Li-ion batteries. It will look at the deterioration curves of different Li-ion batteries and answer the question of which batteries can be reused in a commercially viable way (in addition to safe and environmentally viable).

2.1. Economic value chain analysis of an ESS

This sub-activity will deliver economical battery life cycle analysis for an ESS, starting from the producer of the module and ending when the ESS goes for end of-life handling (reuse, recycling, or recovery). It will include an assessment of when a battery should no longer be reused but recycled. Being able to extend the life cycle of a battery can help Europe build up its recycling capacity while at the same time keeping valuable raw material in Europe.

2.2. Best Available Technology (BAT) for recycling of ESS and batteries

This task will focus on assessing different options and selecting the best available approach to recycling of energy storage batteries in a financially viable way. The biggest Tesla batteries are 100 kWh and Volvo’s hybrid cars are 10 kWh. For this project we are discussing 8 MWh. Assessing whether existing recycling solutions are scalable will be important.

2.3. Business case

This sub-activity will focus on assessing the recycling business case, taking all relevant cost items into consideration.