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Batteriegesetz und EU-Batterieverordnung
In brief
The EU Battery Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) governs the manufacture, labeling, take-back and recycling of batteries uniformly across Europe. In Germany, it has been supplemented since October 2025 by the Battery Law Implementation Act (BattDG), which replaced the former Battery Act (BattG). This matters for IT hardware because laptops, smartphones and tablets contain batteries that must be collected and recovered separately.
What has changed?
As of 10/2026. The Battery Act applied since 2009. With the EU Battery Regulation, a regulation now applies that has direct effect in all member states. The BattDG now regulates only what must be implemented nationally, such as responsibilities and take-back systems. Key points of the regulation:
| Topic | Rule (simplified) |
|---|---|
| Collection targets for portable batteries | Rising to 63% by the end of 2027 and 73% by the end of 2030 |
| Replaceability | Portable batteries are in principle to be removable and replaceable by end users from 18 February 2027, with exceptions |
| Recycling | Minimum quotas for the recovery of materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel |
| Battery passport | Digital passport from 2027 for industrial and vehicle batteries, not for laptop batteries |
Some deadlines have already been adjusted at EU level. Check the current version in each individual case. This entry does not replace legal advice.
What does this mean for retired IT?
Batteries from old devices must not go into residual waste. When waste electrical equipment is treated, they are removed and recovered separately. Damaged lithium batteries are a fire risk and need special care in transport (Shipping lithium batteries). In refurbishment, the Battery condition helps decide whether a device is reused or only needs a new battery. In refurbishment, Second IT replaces worn batteries and disposes of batteries professionally as a certified waste management company. More on IT disposal.
Frequently asked questions about the EU Battery Regulation
Does the Battery Act still apply?
No. The Battery Act was replaced in October 2025 by the Battery Law Implementation Act (BattDG). The EU Battery Regulation is now the main authority (as of 10/2026).
Will laptop batteries have to be replaceable in future?
From February 2027, the regulation provides that portable batteries can in principle be removed and replaced by the end user. There are exceptions for certain devices. The details depend on the device type.
What should I do with batteries from company devices?
The easiest way is to leave them in the device and send them with it to a certified waste management company or refurbisher. Loose batteries belong in a battery take-back system; damaged batteries should be separated and stored safely.
What is the EU Battery Regulation?
Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 governs the manufacture, labeling, take-back and recycling of batteries uniformly across Europe. It applies directly in all member states. National laws such as the BattDG now regulate only supplementary points, such as responsibilities.
May I put lithium batteries from old laptops into household waste?
No. Batteries from old devices do not belong in residual waste. They are removed during treatment of waste electrical equipment and recovered separately. Damaged lithium batteries are a fire risk and should be separated and stored safely.
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