Biden-Harris invests $63 million in battery recycling

The Biden-Harris administration announces a $63 million investment to transform the U.S. manufacturing sector.
The initiative, led by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), aims to improve battery recycling and promote smart manufacturing.
These actions are part of the administration’s “Investing in America” agenda, aimed at strengthening the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness.

Battery recycling

Battery recycling is crucial to a greener economy.
The DOE is allocating $41 million for the second phase of a $50 million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law program to support state and local governments.
The program aims to develop accessible collection points and recover critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium and graphite.
The aim is to create new recycling programs, raise public awareness and maximize community benefits.

Manufacturing Modernization

The Biden-Harris administration is also looking to modernize American manufacturing by making it easier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access smart manufacturing technologies.
The program includes $22 million for the second phase of the State Manufacturing Leadership Program, a project totaling $50 million.
The goal is to expand access to advanced technologies and support the integration of smart manufacturing, thereby improving energy efficiency and competitiveness.

Resources and Skills Development

Support for smart manufacturing is designed to bridge the technology gap faced by SMEs, which are often limited by high initial costs and a lack of training resources.
The DOE will make available competitive funds of up to $2 million per project, accompanied by a 23.1% co-funding requirement.
Projects will be expected to promote community engagement and workforce development, providing the necessary training and technical assistance.

Impact and prospects

These investments are aimed at modernizing the U.S. manufacturing sector while strengthening its global leadership in innovation and sustainability.
The administration’s Justice40 initiative, which ensures that 40% of the benefits of federal investments go to disadvantaged communities, will be integrated into these projects, underscoring the commitment to equity and social sustainability.
The Biden-Harris administration’s strategy represents an effort to propel the United States towards a sustainable, technologically advanced economy.
By improving battery recycling and modernizing manufacturing practices, the administration aims to create jobs, strengthen industrial competitiveness and support a sustainable energy transition.