Across Europe, companies are competing to process the growing volume of batteries coming out of passenger cars and larger vehicles. While recycling has been the main priority—particularly the recovery of valuable minerals such as cobalt, lithium and nickel—there is now rising demand for reuse solutions. Many EV batteries retain significant capacity and can be repurposed for applications such as energy storage or industrial vehicles, extending their life by seven to ten years before recycling.
“Batteries are valuable, and there is increased interest in giving them a second life before recycling… We are currently one of the few actors that have begun developing an offering in both recycling and reuse,” says Marcus Martinsson. He expects the company’s battery‑related activities to generate SEK 500 million in turnover within five to seven years.
Stena Recycling’s European battery centres carry out detailed health checks using specialist systems and algorithms to determine reuse potential. The company has also built a partner network to manage the full reuse process, from assessment to resale, while navigating strict regulations and hazardous‑materials requirements.
With major facilities already established—including one of Europe’s largest battery recycling plants in Halmstad, Sweden,—Stena Recycling is now strengthening its presence in key markets such as Poland, Germany and Italy.
Image: Electric-vehicle battery is prepared for recycling. Credit: Stena Metall.
