The European Commission adopts a delegated act on 14 July that expands the EU’s exemptions to rules requiring portable batteries in products sold in the European Union to be removable and replaceable by consumers. Under the EU Batteries Regulation, batteries are generally required to support longer product lifetimes through easier replacement and to improve recycling by making used batteries easier to collect.
In the updated framework, the Commission adds six new product categories to the existing list of exemptions. The newly covered categories include wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, as well as electric toys. The Commission also includes products that fall under the ATEX Directive, which governs equipment used in explosive atmospheres, such as explosion-proof motors, sensors, pumps, and forklift trucks.
Both outlets report that the delegated act specifically targets the removability and replaceability requirements for portable batteries, rather than removing all related battery obligations under the broader regulation. The changes therefore adjust where the consumer-removal and -replacement rules apply within the EU market.
