EU battery recycling boost as Greek company increases capacity

Greek lead-acid and lithium-ion battery manufacturer Sunlight Group Energy Storage Systems is set to more than double the production capacity of its lead-acid  recycling plant in Komotini, northeastern Greece.

The company invests in increasing the production of lead and lead alloys from 45,000 tonnes to 100,000 tonnes by 2025, becoming one of the biggest producers of secondary lead in Europe.

Sunlight Group’s recycling facility which has been operating since 2014, can presently recycle up to 25,000tn of spent batteries a year.

More than 80 people are currently employed in the facility that supplies the company’s manufacturing plant in Xanthi with more than 50% of its raw material requirements, significantly reducing the use of natural resources and strengthening the company’s supply chain.

Sunlight’s recycling plant, one of the most modern in Europe, and its commitment to the circular economy business model are aligned with EU-wide recycling targets.

The company is investing €9m to build additional facilities, and install automated procedures, machines and systems, as well as recruiting new employees. The investments are part of Sunlight Group’s overall business plan to expand across facilities in Greece and globally.

Commenting on the investment plan to expand capabilities, Dr. Athanasios Karakatsanis, Director of Recycling Production at Sunlight Group, said:

“We are proud to operate one of the best recycling facilities in Europe and are looking forward to expanding our operations. Our objective to more than double production capacity addresses key EU sustainability demands and helps Greece achieve the country’s recycling targets. At the same time, and in the context of our circular economy model, we’re preparing to both increase and strengthen the supply of lead material to Sunlight’s Group manufacturing plant in Xanthi from our own recycled products, while honoring our ESG commitments. This investment is a win-win for everyone, and most of all the environment, which we’re called upon to protect and maintain for the generations to come.”