Brussels, 24 May - EPBA, the European Portable Battery Association, and CENELEC, the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization signed a Cooperation Agreement. The objective of this agreement is to push forward the elaboration of a feasibility study of standardization activities (at European and international level) in the area of batteries and accumulators technology.

EPBA Secretary General, Mr Hans Craen, warmly welcomed the new cooperation, predicting a profitable outcome for all stakeholders for several reasons:

“This cooperation agreement is an important step for EPBA in its collaboration with standardization bodies. We are looking forward in working together with CENELEC through contributing with our expertise and knowledge with the aim of achieving workable and pragmatic solutions.”

The contributions by EPBA to establish and to promote consensus on proposed draft specifications will be of direct benefit to European standardization in the relevant sectors thereby strengthening the European Single Market.

The agreement focuses on cooperation in the area of batteries and accumulators technology, where the knowledge and expertise of EPBA can only further increase the quality of European Standards, therefore ultimately beneficial for the consumer. It will be a particularly suitable tool within the framework of the Europe 2020 Strategy focused on achieving smart and sustainable growth, with a particular focus on the environmental impact of deliverables.

The benefits for both sides are numerous. On the one hand, CENELEC has the institutional responsibility and authority in application of Directive 98/34/EC for proposing, adopting and editing European Electrotechnical Standards for products and services brought on the European market. As such, it has at its disposal, all adequate and experienced procedures and structures for the adoption of these European Standards, Technical Reports or Technical Specifications. 

On the other hand, the European Portable Battery Association, in its capacity as the leading organisation representing the interests of primary and rechargeable portable battery manufacturers, those industries using portable batteries in their products and distributors of portable batteries active within the EU and beyond is the organisation the most representative of the industry.

CEN and CENELEC Director General, Mrs Elena Santiago Cid, was delighted with EPBA joining the CENELEC family:

“This co-operation agreement will certainly reinforce the European Standardization commitment and contribution towards sustainable growth – EPBA is an excellent partner to share knowledge and experience from the portable power industry perspective in the field of environmental footprint of waste batteries and recycling operations, providing consumers with practical information. Our standards will improve in their environmental aspects, and they will push towards a greener Single Market, one more conscious of its environmental impact.”

For the Press Release in pdf format, please click here.