DOE Launches $14 Million Battery Recycling Program

DOE Improving Sustainable Domestic Supply Chain

We are excited to help spread the word about a big step towards a circular, sustainable domestic supply chain for critical minerals and materials, thanks to a new battery recycling program by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Supported by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, this initiative marks a significant move towards a greener future.

Key Highlights

• $14 Million Investment: As part of the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $14 million has been allocated to increase consumer battery recycling.
• 1,000+ Collection Points: The program will establish over 1,000 collection points nationwide, making it easy and free for consumers to recycle old batteries and battery-containing devices.
• Critical Materials: Batteries from consumer products contain essential materials such as nickel, lithium, and graphite, crucial for the clean energy sector.
• Sustainability and National Security: By recycling these materials, we reduce dependency on foreign sources and enhance national security.

What This Means for Consumers

With hundreds of drop-off points across the country, recycling batteries from old cellphones, laptops, vacuums, and smartwatches is now more accessible than ever. This initiative not only helps the environment by reducing e-waste but also promotes the reuse of critical minerals, fostering a sustainable supply chain.

Partnerships and Benefits

Staples U.S. Retail and Batteries Plus will receive over $7 million each to install portable battery recycling drop-offs at their stores. These new drop-off locations will be widely distributed, including in disadvantaged communities, supporting President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative. This ensures that 40 percent of the overall benefits of Federal climate, clean energy, and other investments flow to marginalized and overburdened communities.

The Path Forward

While selection for award negotiations is not a final commitment, this marks a promising start towards creating a robust recycling network. The DOE, along with selected partners, will undergo a negotiation process to finalize funding. This initiative is a crucial part of the DOE’s mission to strengthen and secure manufacturing and energy supply chains, supporting a clean and equitable energy transition.