EU Battery Regulation: New perspective on Safety, Sustainability and Performance of Batteries
First implementation requirements now in effect
The roll out of the European Battery Regulation began on August 18, 2024, with the first set of mandatory requirements now in place for various battery categories. This regulation introduces key sustainability, performance, durability, and due diligence measures that impact a wide range of battery types, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
The regulation outlines several battery categories, each with implementation paths and requirements. While sustainability, traceability, and performance are key focuses, safety requirements remain partially covered by the existing European Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and national regulations. One year after the adoption of the regulation on August 17, 2023, the first compliance deadlines have now been reached. The implementation process will continue until 2036, with significant milestones to be met each year by stakeholders across the battery value chain.
Implementation path
The regulation’s requirements are extensive, , but many details—such as timelines— are being clarified through “Implementation Studies” published by the European Commission. The global impact is significant, though the full scope of its effects still emerging. As of August 18, 2024, several key requirements are mandatory – affecting both battery manufacturers and integrators in their compliance strategies:
- Performance and durability requirements (LMTB, EVB, IB > 2 kWh)
- Safety requirements for Stationery Battery Energy Storage Systems (SBESS)
- Information on State of Health (SoH) and Expected Timeline (ELT) for batteries (LMTB, EVB, SBESS)
- Substance restrictions, particularly on lead-based materials
- Conformity assessment procedures
Stationary Battery Energy Storage Systems (SBESS)
From a safety perspective, the regulation introduces new testing protocols for SBESS, detailed in Article 12 and Annex 5. These include fire testing, thermal propagation testing, and gas analysis.
Additionally, standardization requirements for performance testing are now in place. As of August 18, 2024, rechargeable industrial batteries over 2 kWh, light means of transport (LMT) batteries, and electric vehicle (EV) batteries must include documentation specifying electrochemical performance and durability parameters as outlined in Part A of Annex IV.
Performance Testing
To ensure compliance with the regulation, batteries must undergo rigorous testing and documentation covering aspects such as discharge and charge rates., the ration between nominal battery power (W) energy (Wh), and a cycle-life test to measure the depth of discharge. These technical calculations and tests are essential to meet the performance requirements.
DEKRA Services
DEKRA is actively involved in multiple aspects of the regulation, offering battery testing and training services. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us!