Graphite production and the EU battery value chain

21.9.2021

Question for written answer  E-004318/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Susana Solís Pérez (Renew)

Given the Commission’s proposals in its recent Fit for 55 package, the demand for the critical raw materials used in batteries is likely to rise exponentially in the EU. A key component of electric-vehicle batteries is graphite, which can constitute up to 40 % of the battery’s active material.

The EU is currently exclusively dependent on imports of graphite from outside its borders, but recent announcements suggest that new projects in northern Europe could change the nature of the EU graphite supply and decrease the CO₂ footprint of batteries dramatically.

• 1.What is the Commission’s assessment of the opportunity to locally produce graphite in Europe?
• 2.What support can the Commission provide to Member States to identify and prioritise the permit process for graphite mining and refining projects that promote the development of a clean EU battery value chain?