Batteries and geopolitics: where does Europe stand?

Europe's energy storage landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation driven by strategic policy frameworks aimed at achieving energy independence and climate neutrality by 2050. This presentation examines the technological and supply chain implications of four critical policy instruments reshaping the European battery sector.

The geopolitical imperative stems from Europe's strategic response to eliminating fossil fuel dependence by 2027, mobilizing €400 billion to build domestic battery manufacturing capacity and secure critical supply chains. Key regulatory measures establish supply chain diversification (limiting single-country dependence to 65%), mandate 40% domestic processing and manufacturing by 2030, require 25% recycling targets for battery-grade materials, and introduce digital passports alongside mandatory recycled content requirements (16% cobalt, 6% lithium, 6% nickel by 2031). Fast-track permitting and procurement preferences for compliant manufacturers create structural advantages for early movers in Europe's industrial renaissance.

Technical challenges and opportunities across the value chain will be examined, including infrastructure gaps, compliance system requirements, and the transition from linear to circular manufacturing models.