Client: SusChem (The European Technology Platform for Sustainable Chemistry)
Date: 2018
Location: Europe-wide
Battery energy storage is a critical enabler of Europe’s transition to a sustainable energy system. However, technological, regulatory, and economic barriers hinder its full potential. On behalf of SusChem, Bax developed a comprehensive white paper that outlines the current state, challenges, and strategic pathways for advancing battery energy storage in Europe. This document serves as a crucial resource for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers, aligning their efforts with the European Green Deal and the continent’s ambitions for energy independence and security.
Europe’s energy storage sector is growing rapidly but faces key obstacles in performance, regulations, costs, and supply chains. Limited energy density and performance issues restrict scalability, while fragmented policies hinder market expansion. Dependence on non-EU raw materials exacerbates supply risks, and high costs with uncertain demand deter investments. Additionally, second-life applications and circular economy practices remain underutilised. Overcoming these challenges requires coordinated efforts to drive investment, innovation, and the adoption of sustainable battery technologies.
Approach
Bax performed desk research and worked with SusChem stakeholders to analyse Europe’s battery energy storage landscape, identifying key technologies, regulatory barriers, and market players. The study provides strategic recommendations to enhance sustainability, emphasising eco-design, responsible sourcing, and circular economy principles. The resulting white paper offers a forward-looking strategy, balancing technological advancements with economic and regulatory considerations to drive Europe’s sustainable energy transition.
Impact
The Battery Energy Storage White Paper has played a significant role in shaping discussions on sustainable battery storage in Europe. Its key contributions include:
- Guiding policy recommendations on a European level
- Strengthening industry collaboration
- Enhancing the circularity of energy storage applications
