What Happens to Old EV Batteries in New Zealand?
Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and New Zealand is no exception. However, as the number of EVs on our roads continues to grow, so too does the number of old EV batteries requiring responsible disposal.
According to estimates from EECA, an EV battery is expected to last 10 to 20 years (and more than 350,000 km!) before its range capacity diminishes. The disposal of these batteries is a complex process; EV batteries contain materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which require careful handling and cannot simply be discarded.
So, what happens to EV batteries once they have done their dash? In this article, we will explore what happens to old EV batteries in New Zealand and why it’s essential to dispose of them properly.
How is New Zealand Disposing of EV Batteries?
In New Zealand, the Ministry for the Environment and the New Zealand Automobile Association are working together to ensure that old EV batteries are handled in an environmentally responsible way.
For batteries without any more usable life, The Motor Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) members have pledged to adhere to a code of practice that outlines proper systems for reuse, recycling, or disposal of EV and hybrid batteries, ensuring that no batteries end up in landfills.
If you want to learn more about whether EVs are good for the environment, check out our previous resource here.
The Battery Industry Group (BIG)
Efforts are also being made to establish a program that will allow for the repurposing and recycling of EV batteries. The Battery Industry Group (BIG) is spearheading the work, consisting of over 170 members from diverse fields such as energy, waste, transport, and academia. Among its members are prominent organisations such as Vector, AA, WasteMINZ, and Drive Electric!
The Proposed Solution
BIG’s proposed solution is a “circular” product stewardship programme to ensure accountability for all major batteries, tracking their journey from arrival in New Zealand through reuse, repurposing, and final recycling at the end of their life.
This programme is based on the circular economy model, which moves away from the linear “take-to-waste” approach. Instead of extracting resources, using them, and discarding them, this programme maximises their lifespan through reuse and recycling.
How Would the Scheme Work?
Batteries are registered upon arrival in New Zealand, and ownership is tracked. When the battery can no longer power a car, it will be repurposed for second-life uses. Once the battery has been completely exhausted, it will be safely recycled, ensuring that valuable materials and chemicals are recovered.
Learn more: The BIG solution for EV batteries
How Can Batteries Be Repurposed?
Batteries that can no longer hold a charge can be repurposed for other uses. This is known as “second life” use and helps extend the battery’s useful life while reducing landfill waste.
A second-life EV battery can be used for:
- Providing stability to the power grid
- Storing renewable energy from sources like solar panels or wind turbines
- Powering homes in combination with solar panels, similar to Tesla’s Powerwall
New Battery Technologies
In addition to recycling and repurposing, New Zealand researchers are working on more sustainable battery technologies. Scientists at the University of Auckland are developing a new type of battery that is more environmentally friendly and efficient than current models.
Learn more about it here.
The Bottom Line
EV battery disposal is a critical environmental issue in New Zealand. However, with efforts in recycling, repurposing, and technological advancements, there are multiple solutions to ensure responsible battery management.
By working together, we can help create a more sustainable future for ourselves and the planet.
