India and EU Collaborate on EV Battery Recycling Technologies

New Delhi: The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India hosted a significant delegation from the European Union (EU) today, featuring representatives from EU Member States and startups specializing in battery recycling technologies. This interaction included officials from the EU Delegation to India and members from select Indian startups, focusing on the experiential learning gained through immersion visits following the Electric Vehicle (EV) battery recycling matchmaking event held on June 20, 2024. This event was part of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council’s Working Group 2 (WG2) on Green & Clean Energy Technologies.

Chaired by Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, the discussion highlighted the collaborative efforts between Indian and European startups in the critical field of EV battery recycling technologies. Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the PSA, underscored the significance of this partnership in promoting clean and green energy technologies.

Distinguished guests included Dr. Ewa Suwara, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to India, and D.Ing. Pierrick Fillon-Ashida, Head of Research & Innovation at the EU Delegation to India. The meeting also featured contributions from Dr. Monoranjan Mohanty, Adviser/Scientist ‘G’, and Dr. Hafsa Ahmad, Scientist ‘D’, from the Office of the PSA.

The interaction emphasized the substantial progress made in fostering collaboration between Indian and European startups, showcasing a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the transition to a circular economy. Prof. Sood remarked, “This collaboration opens up new opportunities for technology transfer, market access, and co-development. It is essential for fostering economic resilience and sustainable development.”

Dr. Ewa Suwara reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Recycling EV batteries is a geopolitical and climate imperative, as every ounce recovered enhances energy security and fuels green growth. I am delighted to see that through the support of the Trade and Technology Council, we are able to support the EU and Indian startups to join forces, pioneer innovation, foster business collaboration, and drive market uptake of cutting-edge technologies. This is a shining example of partnership in action, shaping a more sustainable tomorrow.”

During the event, Indian startups recognized as winners of the matchmaking event shared their experiences from immersion trips in the EU, held in September 2024. They provided valuable insights into their learnings and market opportunities. Concurrently, EU startups currently in India for immersion visits shared their expectations and visions, contributing to a deeper understanding of cross-regional collaboration. Participating Indian startups included BatX Energies, Evergreen Lithium Recycling Pvt Ltd., LW3 Pvt Ltd., and Lohum, while EU startups included Ecomet Refining and Eneris.