India and the European Union have strengthened their collaboration in clean energy by initiating a third coordinated call for proposals on recycling electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This effort falls under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and focuses on Green and Clean Energy Technologies. The submission deadline for proposals is set for September 15, 2026.
The joint program, supported by a funding pool of approximately Rs 169 crore, aims to tackle a significant challenge in the EV industry – sustainable battery recycling and the recovery of essential raw materials. The European Union’s Horizon Europe program will provide funding, while India’s Ministry of Heavy Industries will support local participation.
This call for proposals is geared towards promoting innovation in advanced recycling technologies, particularly emphasizing the efficient recovery of valuable materials like lithium, graphite, and cobalt. Additionally, it will prioritize the development of secure, digitalized collection systems and the facilitation of pilot-scale demonstrations for new processes.
A notable aspect of this initiative is the establishment of a joint India-EU pilot line within India, facilitating practical testing and rapid industrial deployment of these technologies. The program will focus on achieving high recovery rates, managing mixed battery chemistries, enhancing logistics inclusively, ensuring safety standards, and promoting second-life applications of batteries.
These endeavors are anticipated to foster a circular economy, diminishing reliance on imported critical minerals. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, views this launch as a significant stride in fortifying the India-EU strategic partnership. He stressed the importance of establishing a robust domestic recycling ecosystem to ensure resource security and environmental sustainability as India’s EV market expands.
European Union Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the pivotal role of batteries in the global green transition. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between innovation and practical application, bolster mineral security, and advance mutual climate objectives. Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, expressed confidence that this collaboration will expedite India’s transition towards a circular economy.
Marc Lemaitre, Director-General for Research and Innovation at the European Commission, emphasized that this joint effort signifies a growing partnership between India and the EU in green innovation.
