In July 2023, the European Union (EU) introduced a new Battery Regulation (2023/1542), replacing the previous Battery Directive. This regulation aims to create a harmonized framework for battery management across member states. As part of the European Green Deal, this regulation aims to "transform the EU into a fair and prosperous society", where net greenhouse gas emissions are eliminated by 2050.
One critical aspect of compliance is reducing dependence on harmful batteries. Enter Ossia’s Cota® Real Wireless Power™ technology.
EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542
- Transition to Regulation: The EU Battery Regulation replaces the 2006 Battery Directive. It standardizes rules for battery production, usage, and disposal.
- New Battery Types: The regulation acknowledges advancements in battery technology, including novel types.
- Extended Producer Responsibilities: Manufacturers now have higher collection targets for different battery categories.
- Critical Raw Materials: Due diligence obligations apply to critical materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt.
Why the EU Is Rolling Out This Regulation
- Circular Economy: The European Green Deal emphasizes circularity—an economic model that minimizes waste, promotes recycling, and extends product lifecycles. By regulating batteries, the EU seeks to ensure that energy storage solutions align with circular principles.
- Strategic Importance: Batteries play a crucial role in achieving climate neutrality. As demand for batteries grows, the battery market becomes increasingly strategic globally.
- Legal Certainty: To avoid discrimination, trade barriers, and market distortions, the regulation provides legal clarity for all operators involved in the battery industry.
The Negative Impact of Batteries
- Environmental Consequences: Conventional batteries contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Their production involves resource-intensive processes, including mining for raw materials (such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel) and energy-intensive manufacturing.
- E-Waste: Batteries generate substantial electronic waste (e-waste) due to their limited lifespan. Disposal and recycling of batteries pose challenges, especially when hazardous materials are involved. And replacing batteries with wires can be expensive -- and relies on mining more materials for wires.
- High Costs: Wired installations for battery-powered devices—such as IoT sensors—require labor-intensive infrastructure. Frequent battery replacement or charging adds significantly to operational costs, while the actual energy provided by batteries is massively cost-inefficient.
Wireless Power as a Solution
Enter Ossia’s Cota Real Wireless Power™—a game-changing technology that addresses these challenges:
- Battery-Free Operation: Ossia’s wireless power solution eliminates the need for batteries. Sensors, trackers, and other devices can operate without traditional batteries or wiring.
- Efficiency and Reliability: Wirelessly charged sensors provide continuous data streams, enhancing asset management, safety, and predictive maintenance.
- Circular Principles: By reducing battery dependence, Ossia aligns with circular economy principles.
- Reduced Downtime: Early issue detection streamlines maintenance, preventing costly downtime and improving overall efficiency.
WEEE Compliance
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) compliance is crucial for managing electronic waste. Ossia’s wireless power technology can ensure compliance and foster a greener, battery-free future, minimizing electronic waste.
Ossia’s wireless power technology empowers companies to embrace a battery-free or battery-light future. By adopting wireless charging, we can mitigate environmental impact, reduce costs, and pave the way for a cleaner, more efficient energy landscape.
