The road transport ministry has put forth a new system to assign electric vehicle batteries a distinct identification number, akin to Aadhaar, with the aim of enhancing tracking, safety, and recycling. This initiative seeks to ensure full traceability of batteries throughout their lifecycle, from production to final disposal. As per the ministry’s draft guidelines, every battery manufacturer or importer will need to allocate a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to each battery entering the market or utilized for self-consumption.
The guidelines further mandate that companies must input all pertinent battery data onto an official BPAN portal. It is specified that the BPAN should be visibly and conveniently located on the battery, ensuring it remains intact throughout the battery’s operational lifespan. The proposed BPAN system is designed to retain crucial information concerning a battery, encompassing its journey from raw material extraction and manufacturing to its utilization, recycling, or ultimate disposal.
In cases where a battery undergoes recycling or repurposing, resulting in attribute alterations, a new BPAN will be required to be issued by the same or a different producer or importer. The ministry emphasized that this system aims to introduce enhanced transparency, accountability, and sustainability to the battery ecosystem. By monitoring battery performance and environmental impact, the framework is anticipated to bolster regulatory adherence, promote second-life usage, and facilitate efficient recycling.
