Batteries: Commission explores deposit return systems

The European Commission has launched a study on the feasibility of deposit return systems (DRS) for batteries, as required under Article 63 of the Batteries Regulation. The study, being carried out by Öko-Institut and Ramboll, will assess potential benefits and design options ahead of a Commission report expected by the end of 2027. The first stakeholder workshop took place on 28 April.

Stakeholders are invited to submit written feedback on the study by 26 May 2026. A draft report is expected in late August, followed by a second stakeholder workshop in September and a further feedback round in October, ahead of the final report submission in December 2026.

Initial findings suggest that DRS could help increase collection rates, particularly for lithium-based batteries, and address safety concerns such as fire risks in waste streams. Two main approaches are currently being assessed: retailer-based systems for light means of transport batteries, such as e-bike batteries, and a broader industry-wide DRS for portable batteries, potentially focused on batteries with elevated fire risks. At the same time, the analysis points to challenges related to system design, including administrative complexity, costs, safety requirements and the interaction with existing extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes.

Feedback from stakeholders highlights ongoing concerns regarding feasibility, in particular regarding system costs, operational complexity, exacerbated safety concerns, data availability and the interaction with existing collection systems. These aspects are expected to be further examined in the next phase of the study.

In parallel, the Commission has launched a stakeholder consultation on a delegated act introducing additional exemptions to battery removability and replaceability requirements, with feedback open until 26 May 2026.

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