EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542)
Rahul Jalthar

EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542): A Complete Guide

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The EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542), adopted in July 2023, is a game-changing law that sets strict rules for how batteries are designed, manufactured, labeled, used, and recycled. Unlike the previous directive, this regulation applies directly across all EU member states, creating a unified framework. It replaces the outdated Battery Directive 2006/66/EC and aligns with the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan.

1. Scope and Timeline of EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542)

This regulation applies to almost all types of batteries, including:

  • Portable batteries in electronics and appliances
  • Industrial batteries used in storage systems
  • Automotive batteries
  • Electric vehicle (EV) batteries
  • Light means of transport (LMT) batteries, such as e-bikes and e-scooters
Time Line for EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542)

Key deadlines to note:

👉 Related reading: Timeline of EU Battery Regulations Implementation

2. Main Objectives of the EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542)

The regulation is designed to:

  • Ensure sustainable battery production and reduce environmental impact
  • Improve safety, transparency, and compliance
  • Support resource recovery and battery recycling targets
  • Give consumers clear information on carbon footprint and performance
  • Establish the EU as a global leader in green battery standards

3. Core Provisions of EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542)

a) Sustainability & Hazardous Substances

The regulation sets strict limits on heavy metals:

  • Mercury ≤ 0.0005%
  • Cadmium ≤ 0.002%
  • Lead ≤ 0.01% (exceptions apply until 2028)

These limits reduce toxic waste and push producers toward eco-friendly battery chemistry.

b) Carbon Footprint & Labelling

From 2024, manufacturers must include:

  • Carbon footprint declarations based on EU methodology
  • CE marking and hazard icons
  • Identification of battery type and chemical composition

By 2026, labels must also state capacity, lifespan, and proper disposal methods.

c) Digital Battery Passport (2027 Onwards)

One of the most innovative elements is the digital battery passport.

  • Applies to EV, LMT, and industrial batteries above 2 kWh
  • Accessible via QR code
  • Contains data on raw materials, lifecycle, recycling, and performance

This tool will increase traceability, reuse, and recycling efficiency.

d) Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Producers must take back used batteries and ensure proper recycling.

  • Collection targets: 63% for portable batteries by 2027, rising further by 2030
  • Recycling efficiency goals:
    • Lithium: 50% by 2027, 80% by 2031
    • Cobalt, nickel, copper, lead: 90% by 2027, 95% by 2031

e) Removability & Repair Obligations

  • By 2027, portable device batteries must be easily removable by consumers.
  • LMT batteries must be replaceable by independent professionals.
    This ensures longer product lifespans and supports the right to repair movement.

f) Supply Chain Due Diligence

Battery manufacturers must assess and address environmental and social risks, especially concerning critical raw materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.

g) Enforcement & Penalties

EU member states must set effective and dissuasive penalties for non-compliance by 2025. Companies failing to meet obligations risk heavy fines and restricted market access.

4. Why the EU Batteries Regulation Matters

The EU Batteries Regulation 2023/1542 is a turning point for the industry:

  • It creates a circular economy for batteries
  • Pushes innovation in recycling and green chemistry
  • Protects consumers with clear labels and sustainability standards
  • Forces global suppliers to comply if they want access to the EU market

👉 You may also like: New EU End-of-Life Battery Regulations Create Legal and Commercial Complexities

Conclusion

The EU Batteries Regulation (EU 2023/1542) is more than just another piece of legislation. It sets the foundation for a sustainable battery market, from design and labeling to recycling and reuse. For businesses, early compliance is not optional—it’s the only way to remain competitive in Europe’s fast-changing energy landscape.

UL 1973 Certification for Battery Systems
Rahul Jalthar

UL 1973 Certification: The Safety Standard for Modern Battery Systems

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As energy storage technologies power everything from homes to large-scale grids, safety and compliance have become non-negotiable. Among the most important safety benchmarks is UL 1973 certification, the globally recognized standard for stationary batteries and energy storage systems.

This certification validates that a battery has passed rigorous safety and performance tests, ensuring it can operate reliably under real-world conditions. For manufacturers, system integrators, and project developers, achieving UL 1973 certification is not only about compliance—it is about protecting customers, enabling market access, and building trust.

What Is UL 1973 Certification?

UL 1973, formally titled “Batteries for Use in Stationary, Vehicle Auxiliary Power, and Light Electric Rail Applications,” defines the testing requirements for rechargeable batteries used in non-automotive settings.

In simpler terms, if you are producing a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) or a stationary backup solution, UL 1973 is the certification you need to prove safety.

The standard covers:

  • Electrical safety (short-circuit, overcharge, abnormal charging)
  • Mechanical safety (vibration, shock, impact resistance)
  • Thermal safety (temperature cycling, fire resistance, thermal runaway prevention)
  • Environmental durability (humidity, corrosion, altitude testing)

👉 Related Reading: Difference Between BESS and ESS

Why UL 1973 Matters for Battery Manufacturers and Integrators

Battery failures are not just technical risks—they carry financial, legal, and reputational consequences. By obtaining UL 1973 certification:

  • Market Access: Many regions, including North America, require UL compliance before commercialization.
  • Customer Confidence: Certified systems are trusted more by utilities, C&I customers, and regulators.
  • Reduced Liability: Certification demonstrates due diligence in meeting safety requirements.
  • Integration with Other Standards: UL 1973 certification is often a prerequisite or complement to UL 9540 for full energy storage system compliance.

👉 Learn More: UL 9540 vs. UL 9540A: What’s the Difference?

Key Tests in UL 1973 Certification

To achieve certification, batteries undergo a wide range of evaluations. Some of the most critical include:

UL 1973 Certification Key Safety tests for battery System

1. Electrical Abuse Tests

  • Overcharge / Over-discharge – Verifies how cells handle extreme electrical conditions.
  • Short-circuit resistance – Ensures protective circuits prevent hazards.

2. Mechanical Tests

  • Vibration and shock testing – Simulates transportation and installation stresses.
  • Impact resistance – Evaluates casing and module integrity.

3. Thermal & Fire Safety

  • Thermal cycling – Repeated heating and cooling to test durability.
  • Flame resistance – Verifies the system’s ability to resist ignition.
  • Thermal runaway testing – Ensures proper containment under failure.

4. Environmental Tests

  • Altitude testing – For high-elevation installations.
  • Humidity and corrosion tests – Verifies performance in harsh climates.

👉 Related Reading: IEC Certifications for BESS

UL 1973 vs. Other Battery Standards

Many companies confuse UL 1973 with other standards. Here’s how it fits into the bigger picture:

Battery Safety Standards Compared with UL 1973 Certification
StandardScopeApplicationRelationship
UL 1973Stationary & rail batteriesCell & module levelFoundation safety testing
UL 9540Energy storage systemsSystem-level BESSRequires UL 1973-certified components
UL 9540AFire safety testingPropagation & thermal runawayComplements UL 1973
IEC 62619International battery safetyGlobal marketsOften paired with UL for dual compliance

👉 See Our Guide: UL 9540 Certification Explained

Challenges in Obtaining UL 1973

While certification is essential, the path can be complex. Common challenges include:

  • Long testing timelines (6–12 months depending on lab capacity)
  • High costs for prototype testing and certification cycles
  • Design changes triggered by failures in early testing
  • Documentation requirements (schematics, safety analysis, BMS reports)

Sunlith Energy helps clients streamline compliance by aligning battery designs with UL requirements early in the product development cycle.

How Sunlith Energy Supports UL 1973 Certification

At Sunlith Energy, we don’t just deliver battery solutions—we ensure they are market-ready and compliant. Our support includes:

  • Design consulting – Ensuring your battery pack meets UL 1973 requirements from the ground up.
  • Pre-certification testing – Identifying weak points before official lab submission.
  • Documentation support – Preparing technical files, test reports, and safety manuals.
  • Partnership with certified labs – Speeding up the testing and approval process.

👉 Contact Us: Sunlith Energy

FAQs: UL 1973 Certification

Q1. What is UL 1973 certification?

It is a safety certification for stationary and rail-use rechargeable batteries that validates performance under electrical, mechanical, and thermal stress.

Q2. Is UL 1973 mandatory for all batteries?

No, it applies primarily to stationary and auxiliary power systems, not automotive traction batteries (those follow UL 2580).

Q3. How long does certification take?

Typically 6–12 months, depending on battery complexity and lab availability.

Q4. How does UL 1973 relate to UL 9540?

UL 1973 ensures the safety of the battery itself, while UL 9540 covers the entire storage system. Most UL 9540 certifications require UL 1973-approved components.

Q

Final Thoughts

In the competitive energy storage landscape, UL 1973 certification is more than just a box to check—it is your gateway to trust, compliance, and market success. Whether you’re developing a new stationary storage solution or scaling up production, aligning with this standard protects your customers, your business, and your brand.

At Sunlith Energy, we combine technical expertise with compliance experience to help you achieve certification faster and more cost-effectively.

👉 Ready to take your battery system to the next level? Talk to Sunlith Energy today.