The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has allocated $44.8 million to fund eight projects focused on advancing battery recycling technologies, a key step in strengthening the domestic electric vehicle (EV) supply chain. The funding, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to reduce the cost of recycling EV batteries and components, thereby supporting the transition to cost-effective electric vehicles.
The selected projects will promote the development of new technologies to enhance battery recycling processes and explore second-life applications for EV batteries. Among the funded projects is B2U Storage Solutions, which will receive $3.5 million to create a low-cost, reusable, fire-resistant system for safely transporting second-life or damaged EV batteries. Additionally, Caterpillar Inc. will receive $5 million to improve battery pack designs for off-highway vehicles.
Other recipients include Rochester Institute of Technology and Siemens Corporation, each receiving about $7 million for projects focused on automating battery dismantling. General Motors and ReJoule Incorporated will also benefit, receiving $7.9 million and $6.3 million, respectively, to develop technologies for handling end-of-life EV batteries.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized that these efforts are critical to securing a resilient domestic battery supply chain, reducing pollution, and supporting clean energy goals. The projects also align with the Justice40 Initiative, which targets equitable economic benefits for disadvantaged communities through federal investments in clean energy and climate-related areas.