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African nations are aiming to expand their battery recycling capabilities in response to the rising use of electronic devices. New recycling plants have been announced across West Africa and in South Africa to address this growing need. In August and September alone, three new pilot facilities were either announced or launched, and Nigeria introduced new legislation focused on the lifecycle management of batteries, including provisions for improved battery recycling.
Recycling in the context of a growing battery demand
Across Africa, batteries are starting to play a vital role in counteracting intermittent power systems and storing energy generated from renewable sources like wind and solar. Growing demand for behind-the-meter, microgrid and to a lesser extent grid-scale battery storage, as well as the rising use of electronic devices are all contributing to an increase in e-waste and end-of-life batteries. Moreover, there is potential for growth in penetration rate in the significant two- and three-wheeler market, as well as a limited number of electric vehicles. Consequently, the need for efficient recycling capabilities is becoming more pressing.
European Players Entering the African Recycling Market
Several facilities have been announced with European players aiming to capitalise on Africa’s growing waste market. Romco Group, a UK-based recycling organisation focused on emerging markets, and Elemental Group, a Polish recycler, have signed an agreement to collaborate in Africa. Together, they plan to recycle e-waste, batteries, as well as aluminium and copper, initially concentrating on West Africa. Given Romco’s existing presence in Nigeria, it’s likely that their recycling efforts will begin there.
Similarly, the UK recycler Hinckley E-Waste Recycling has announced a USD5 million investment into a lithium-ion and lead-acid battery recycling facility in Ogun State, Nigeria. This facility will in part be supported by the UK government.
READ: LFP battery recycling, the challenges and opportunities
South Africa’s First Lithium-Ion Recycling Facility
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Cwenga Lib opened its first pilot battery recycling facility in Johannesburg in September. This plant focuses on lithium-ion battery recycling, with the capacity to recycle from end of life batteries through to battery grade materials. Using hydrometallurgy, the facility’s end products include lithium, manganese, nickel, and cobalt salts.
New Legislation in Nigeria for Battery Management
These developments coincide with Nigeria’s recent enactment of new legislation to regulate battery use, covering every stage of a battery’s life cycle, from production and usage to collection, transportation, storage, recycling, and disposal.
More Information
For more information on the battery recycling market and industry trends, see our battery recycling research. For more information into how our research can help you, get in touch.
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