German Company Plans Europe's Largest EV Battery Recycling Plant

Several companies and initiatives in Europe are advancing the recycling and repurposing of electric vehicle (EV) batteries to support sustainable energy use and reduce environmental impact. German company cylib received 26.1 million euros in EU funding to build one of Europe's largest lithium-ion battery recycling facilities, capable of recovering up to 90% of critical materials while lowering carbon emissions by 80% compared to primary extraction. Meanwhile, Voltfang, a German cleantech startup, partnered with Palladio Partners in a €250 million deal to repurpose used EV batteries into grid-connected energy storage systems, extending battery life and reducing demand for newly mined raw materials like lithium and cobalt. CEVA Logistics is developing a reverse logistics service to collect and recycle batteries across Europe, aiming to establish 10 recycling centers by 2027 to meet EU battery recycling mandates and foster a circular economy. These efforts not only address the growing demand for EV batteries—amid rising electric vehicle sales in Europe—but also aim to mitigate environmental risks associated with battery disposal and raw material mining. Collectively, these initiatives highlight Europe's commitment to enhancing battery sustainability, promoting reuse, and supporting the transition to clean energy.