In a significant move to bolster domestic battery recycling and strengthen the nation’s supply chain resilience, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a $14 million investment aimed at enhancing consumer battery recycling initiatives across the country. This initiative is a key component of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Managed by DOE’s Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains Office (MESC), the funding will facilitate the establishment of more than 1,000 collection points nationwide. These collection points will enable consumers to easily and conveniently dispose of old batteries and battery-containing devices, thereby reducing electronic waste (e-waste) and promoting sustainable practices.
“Did you know that President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is helping consumers play a pivotal role in our national security?” remarked U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “With hundreds of drop-off points across the country, we’re making it easier to recycle batteries from old cellphones and laptops — in-turn allowing us to reuse the critical minerals we would normally source from China for new clean energy manufacturing. At DOE, we’re excited to help create a circular, sustainable domestic supply chain.”
Recycling spent batteries not only diverts harmful materials from landfills but also provides essential materials like nickel, lithium, and graphite, which are crucial for manufacturing new batteries and other clean energy products. The initiative aims to foster a robust domestic supply chain that reduces reliance on foreign imports, particularly from China, for these critical minerals.
Staples U.S. Retail and Batteries Plus, both prominent battery retailers, have been selected to receive over $7 million each under this initiative. They will install portable consumer battery recycling drop-offs at their stores, contributing to the creation of the new collection locations. These drop-off points will be strategically located across the nation, with a significant number planned for disadvantaged communities.
“This program not only advances our environmental goals but also supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative,” explained Granholm. “By ensuring that 40 percent of the benefits of federal climate and clean energy investments reach communities burdened by pollution and underinvestment, we are promoting equity and inclusion in our clean energy transition.”
The selection for award negotiations does not constitute a commitment by DOE to issue funding immediately. Both DOE and the selected applicants will undergo a negotiation process, during which DOE retains the right to cancel negotiations and rescind selections for any reason.
