Largest lithium-ion battery cleanup in U.S. history sparks need for specialized recycling
Approximately 100,000 damaged batteries from a Northern California energy facility fire will be processed
American Battery Technology Company (ABTC) has been selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to manage the largest lithium-ion battery cleanup in U.S. history. The project will involve recycling approximately 100,000 damaged battery modules from a Northern California energy storage facility fire.
This project underscores the critical need for advanced battery recycling infrastructure as the nation accelerates its transition to renewable energy. ABTC's proprietary recycling technologies will recover valuable materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, preventing environmental contamination and supporting the domestic battery supply chain.
Following a comprehensive audit, ABTC's Nevada facility received EPA approval under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) to process hazardous battery waste. This positions ABTC as one of the few recyclers in the Western U.S. authorized to handle such materials.
The EPA is overseeing the logistics of transporting and processing the damaged batteries, which vary in condition from intact units to severely compromised modules. At current market prices, the recycled materials from this project are estimated to be worth approximately $30 million.
This operation highlights the growing demand for specialized battery recycling capabilities as electric vehicles and grid storage systems become more prevalent. The collaboration between ABTC and the EPA sets a precedent for future large-scale battery management and recycling initiatives.
