The EU can end its reliance on China for lithium-ion battery cells by 2027, Transport & Environment (T&E) has forecast. Europe is on track to produce enough Li-ion cells by then to fully meet domestic demand for electric vehicles and energy storage, according to the new analysis of battery-makers’ announcements.
REUTERS/Stringer/ File photo Purchase Licensing Rights MADRID, Sept 17 (Reuters) - The European Union could become as dependent on China for lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells by 2030 as it was on Russia for energy before the war in Ukraine unless it takes strong measures, a paper prepared for EU leaders said.
Reliance on China for the refining and processing of battery metals could also fall dramatically: more than 50% of Europe’s refined lithium demand can come from European projects by 2030, T&E forecasts. These include RockTech Lithium and Vulcan Energy Resources in Germany, and Imerys in France.
Europe already relies on China for battery technology, said Guido Cozzi, an economist at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. “It is not too late, but I think they should act pretty fast, because China is moving very fast in this sector,” Cozzi told VOA.
These new guidelines introduce significant changes poised to impact battery producers across the globe, with companies in China and Taiwan being at the forefront of these challenges. Key Highlights of the New Regulations: Beginning in 2027, any power batteries destined for European markets will mandatorily require a "Battery Passport."
This strategic move is tailored to ensure seamless battery trade relations between China and the EU. It's pivotal to note China's overwhelming presence in the battery production landscape, holding a staggering 77% of the global market share.