This month Cleantech Council invites non-members to join their Startup Review on EV & Battery Recycling. In this meeting, you'll hear from analysts and experts and meet the founders and leaders of cutting-edge startups developing new solutions for the profitable recycling of EV components, batteries, and grid-scale batteries.
Silicon Valley, California, August 27, 2025/Meeting Recap/ The Cleantech Council’s August, 2025 meeting was held on the topic of Second Lives for EV Batteries and Materials, and Recycling. The discussion highlighted that electric vehicles and energy storage systems present a dual challenge and opportunity for the industry: the responsible management of end-of-life batteries. The meeting focused on the innovation we’re seeing to create a circular economy for these materials. It was a well-timed topic, as the industry is a few years away from a surge of retired batteries and motors from the first wave of electric vehicles. This will be followed by a similar trend in retired batteries from grid storage systems. The importance of this topic is underscored by the projected growth of the global EV battery recycling market, which is expected to reach an estimated $23 billion in ten years, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 40%. This online meeting was hosted by the Cleantech Council and saw the participation of about 40 attendees.
The meeting featured a roundtable discussion on the circular economy for EV batteries and materials, which was led by Tiffiany Moehring (Head of Communications and Marketing, American Battery Technology Company). The discussion tapped into the collective insights of the Cleantech Council members, speakers, and the wider audience. In general, we could see that EV batteries have multiple lives, and each one is showing promise. Thus, the overall value offered by a battery is far higher than we might have expected a decade ago.
THIRD LIFE:
The escalating adoption of electric vehicles is prompting significant innovation in battery lifecycle management. The conversation at the meeting illuminated the fact that EV batteries are a rich source of materials that can be easily recycled, including valuable minerals such as cobalt, nickel, manganese, and lithium (and other future battery minerals). One key distinction was noted: unlike plastics and many other materials, recycled battery minerals are of equal or even higher quality than virgin materials. Derek Kerton, the Cleantech Council Chair, noted, “This is more like aluminium cans than plastic bags. There’s value here. People will dive into dumpsters to get it!” Hot companies like Redwood Materials illustrate how the profit motive drives it, not subsidy. With EV battery recycling, not only do materials not end up in landfills, but we reduce the need for new mining, and it also shortens supply chains, effectively on-shoring the procurement of critical minerals.
SECOND LIFE
But even better, the conversation highlighted a major opportunity for value creation before the recycling process: second-life applications. EV batteries can be repurposed for stationary applications, such as providing backup power for homes or being aggregated into larger Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for grid-level applications. This approach extends the useful life of a battery, maximizing its economic value before it is ultimately recycled. The meeting explored a variety of key areas, including Battery Second Life strategies, their economic viability, and market applications. It was noted that this strategy is still in its nascent stages but holds immense promise as the number of retired EV batteries begins to grow in the coming years.
FIRST LIFE
EV battery life durations are exceeding even the most optimistic predictions. In-battery active liquid cooling systems, modern BMS systems, and 20-80% default charging have reduced degradation to rates slower than the rest of the surrounding vehicle - the battery can outlast the vehicle itself! Geotab Research found a capacity loss rate of just 1.8% per year, down from their 2019 study result of 2.3%. Tesla's own data showed a degradation of only about 12% after 200,000 miles.
The importance of the circular economy for batteries and materials cannot be overstated in the current climate. As an expert analyst would attest, a circular model not only provides economic benefits but also addresses critical supply chain vulnerabilities. For example, the United States is almost entirely dependent on foreign sources for many of the key minerals used in EV batteries, such as graphite, manganese, and cobalt. Building a robust domestic recycling industry could help reduce this reliance and enhance national security. Furthermore, a circular approach aligns with global sustainability goals by reducing the carbon footprint associated with mining and processing new materials. It also helps businesses comply with evolving environmental regulations and meet consumer demand for more sustainable products. The meeting also addressed the logistical challenges and infrastructure development necessary for effective battery collection, transportation, and processing, highlighting the need for a coordinated effort across the value chain.
The innovators and startups addressed topics such as:
The Cleantech Council’s overarching goal is to foster business relationships and reduce the time it takes for members and innovators to get deals done. By facilitating these connections, the council helps bring real products to real customers, sooner. The meeting aimed to move the needle on second-life battery applications and recycling, paving the way for a more sustainable and secure energy future.
We would like to extend our thanks to the presenters and all of the roundtable contributors for sharing their valuable expertise. All of the presentations will be available to members in the Cleantech Council’s Member Library.