#United States #Washington #Energy Storage #Battery Council #Domestic Manufacturing

U.S. Battery Industry's Call to Congress

In a significant move for the battery manufacturing sector, Battery Council International (BCI) has laid out a comprehensive briefing for U.S. legislators aimed at prompting the government to advocate for domestic battery producers. As batteries serve as the backbone of countless American businesses, their impact on the economy is profound. According to a 2024 report from BCI, the domestic battery industry is responsible for an astounding $8.1 trillion in economic output, accounting for approximately 20% of the national economy. Additionally, about 48 million jobs hinge on the battery supply chain, underlining the urgency for protective measures.

Roger Miksad, the President and Executive Director of BCI, emphasized the critical nature of the current moment for energy storage solutions. He stated that the U.S. battery sector faces unprecedented challenges from foreign competition and the concentration of vital minerals in other countries. Miksad noted, "Maintaining a strong domestic industrial base for U.S. battery supply chains is critical to the American economy and national security."

The U.S. battery industry is not new to the landscape. With over 125 years of history in delivering reliable energy storage, these manufacturers play an essential role in sustaining a robust economy. In its briefing document titled "THE U.S. DOMESTIC BATTERY MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY: Producers of Industrial and Automotive Starter Batteries," BCI has proposed five specific policy actions categorized into three critical areas: manufacturing, safety, and support through the Department of Energy (DOE).

Key Policy Recommendations

Manufacturing

1. Maintain Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Provision: This provision is vital for domestic battery manufacturers and should remain intact to foster growth.
2. Remove Tax Penalties for Domestic Battery Production: BCI advocates for the abolishment of punitive excise taxes on essential battery materials via the USA Batteries Act, promoting local manufacturing initiatives.

Department of Energy

3. Support Key DOE Programs: The BCI urges collaboration with DOE to bolster programs that promote innovation and development in domestic battery technologies, focusing particularly on research partnerships with national laboratories.

Safety

4. Set Realistic OSHA Regulations: A call for enhanced partnership between the Department of Labor and BCI experts to establish workplace safety regulations based on real-world data is essential for worker protection.
5. Facilitate Safer Battery Recycling: Supporting the EPA's initiatives will help improve processes for battery collection and recycling, ensuring better worker safety and environmental protection.

Miksad reinforced that relying on domestic manufacturers ensures that U.S. battery demand can be met consistently and safely. He concluded, "The modern economy simply can't run without reliable energy storage, and BCI's policy recommendations will ensure U.S. supply chains remain strong and independent for many years to come."

As the battery sector navigates this critical juncture, it remains crucial for legislators to heed these recommendations and take actionable steps that support the industry's growth and resilience in the face of evolving challenges. For further details, BCI's full report can be accessed here.

About Battery Council International

Founded over a century ago, BCI is the leading trade association advocating for the global battery industry, encompassing a wide array of stakeholders from manufacturers to recyclers. As they celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2024, BCI continues to push the envelope on battery innovation, sustainability, and safety, representing a collective commitment to maintaining a robust circular economy for energy storage solutions. For additional insights, please visit www.batterycouncil.org.