Vice-President Maroš Šefcovic meets industry to discuss challenges linked to raw materials for batteries

Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič in charge of the Energy Union meets today (14 December) CEOs of raw materials processing and refining companies as well as the European Investment Bank. The meeting, under the umbrella of the European Battery Alliance, is aimed at addressing existing challenges linked to raw materials part of the battery value chain and in particular, processing and refining capacity in the EU. A secure, sustainable and socially responsible supply of raw materials will define Europe's leadership not only in batteries production but also in the clean energy industrial revolution as such. "With Europe fully embarking on the low-carbon transition, raw materials are becoming highly strategic. Europe must reduce its external dependence on these assets, so they do not become the 'new oil'. This requires bold collective action and that is why I have convened this meeting to see how we can step up our game," Vice-President Šefčovič has said. Following our Strategic Plan on Sustainable Batteries, the Commission has already issued recommendations to the Member States to help boost exploration, second use and refining capacity of raw materials in Europe.

SOURCE: EU Commission Press Release