The Department of Energy (DOE) in the US has announced a $37 million grant (DE-FOA-0003120), part of a larger $200 million initiative aimed at cutting down electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling expenses. This funding, under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, focuses on advancing recycling processes, validating second-life applications, and boosting the economics of battery recycling.
The program’s objectives include:
- Enhancing recycling methods and integrating recycled material into the battery supply chain.
- Demonstrating the potential for using spent EV batteries in non-automotive settings.
- Improving the economics of battery recycling for industrial profitability.
This new funding tackles the third objective by reducing costs associated with transporting, disassembling, and processing end-of-life EV batteries. It also supports research and development for recycling plastic and polymer EV battery components.
The aim is to make battery recycling more economically viable, as current practices incur high costs due to handling complexities and safety concerns. By supporting innovative technologies, this initiative intends to scale up recycling operations and profitability. Future initiatives will address any gaps identified through the execution of current and prior funding opportunities.
Concept papers are due by February 7, 2024, and full applications are due by April 19, 2024.
See the funding opportunity announcement here.
