Batteries are key to the EU's transition to a climate neutral economy, given the role they play in the green transport revolution and the storage of renewable energy. A carbon neutral economy, as outlined in the European Green Deal, would require scaling up global battery production by a factor of 19, according to the World Economic Forum.
In the transport sector, the growing demand for electric vehicles (EV) means a rise in demand for batteries as well as an increase in the demand for battery raw materials such as cobalt, nickel and lithium. For EV batteries and energy storage, the EU will need up to 18 times more lithium and 5 times more cobalt by 2030, and nearly 60 times more lithium and 15 times more cobalt by 2050, compared with the current supply to the whole EU economy.
The successful roll-out of electric vehicles in the EU depends on the co-operation of many stakeholders. Policymakers, academia, industry and civil society must together find solutions to make e-transport a reality for all EU citizens. There are many moving parts to the transition, and a supportive regulatory framework to support this innovative market is crucial.
Listen to this EURACTIV Virtual Conference to discuss how the EU can lead battery innovation, and ensure that e-transport plays its role on the road to climate neutrality in 2050. Our panellists will tackle questions including:
- Is the developing EU regulatory framework for batteries fit for purpose?- Can it respond fast enough to rapid innovation?- What are the bottlenecks for a comprehensive recycling system for batteries?- How can different EU strategic industries collaborate in order to increase competitiveness and accelerate innovation?