The Pacific Northwest has long been a hub for battery innovation, with companies, researchers, and investors working to advance energy storage solutions for everything from electric vehicles to grid-scale storage. Now, a new piece of legislation—Oregon’s House Bill 2062 (HB 2062)—is poised to reshape the industry by requiring battery producers to take responsibility for collecting and recycling their products.
What is HB 2062?
HB 2062 establishes an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for batteries, meaning that companies manufacturing or selling batteries in Oregon must now join a Battery Producer Responsibility Organization (BPRO) to handle collection, recycling, and safe disposal. The bill:
- Requires battery producers to fund and manage statewide recycling programs.
- Sets collection site requirements, ensuring 95% of Oregonians live within 15 miles of a battery drop-off location.
- Bans improper disposal of removable lithium-ion batteries.
- Mandates companies meet strict environmental and performance goals.
- Establishes fines and penalties for non-compliance, including up to $10,000 per day for failing to participate.
Impact on PNW Battery Entrepreneurs, Scientists, and Investors
Challenges for Battery Companies
- Higher Compliance Costs: Startups and smaller battery manufacturers may face new financial and regulatory burdens, particularly if they lack established recycling plans.
- Supply Chain Adjustments: Businesses will need to design batteries that are easier to recycle or prove that their products comply with the law.
- Market Shifts: Companies that fail to adapt may lose access to Oregon’s market, as participation in a BPRO is required to sell batteries in the state.
Opportunities for Innovation
- Battery Recycling Startups Gain an Edge: The bill creates new demand for battery collection, processing, and second-life applications, making Oregon a potential leader in circular battery economy solutions.
- Materials Science & Engineering Growth: Scientists working on sustainable battery chemistries and recycling technologies will find increased funding and industry collaboration.
- Investment in Circular Economy Ventures: HB 2062 could drive VC and angel investment into companies tackling battery lifecycle management, second-life applications, and urban recycling logistics.
Will Companies Leave Oregon?
Some businesses may consider relocating to states without similar regulations, but several factors encourage companies to stay:
- Market Access: Selling in Oregon still requires compliance, even if a company is headquartered elsewhere.
- Regulatory Trends: Other states (especially California and Washington) may adopt similar EPR policies soon, making early compliance a competitive advantage.
- Innovation Incentives: Oregon could become a leader in battery sustainability, attracting government grants, research partnerships, and new business models in recycling and reuse.
What’s Next for the PNW Battery Community?
The PNW Battery Collaborative and the broader energy community should engage with Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to help shape implementation. Businesses should:
- Assess Compliance Needs: Determine how HB 2062 affects their supply chains, recycling partnerships, and design processes.
- Explore Circular Economy Partnerships: Collaborate with recyclers, material scientists, and policy leaders to turn compliance into a business advantage.
- Advocate for Smart Incentives: Work with state lawmakers to ensure grants and tax credits support companies that innovate around battery sustainability.
Current Status and Implications
As of January 17, 2025, Oregon's House Bill 2062 (HB 2062) has been referred to the House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment. At this stage, the bill is under committee consideration, where members will review its provisions, possibly suggest amendments, and decide whether to advance it to the full House for a vote.
Likelihood of Passage
Predicting the exact likelihood of HB 2062 passing is challenging, as it depends on various factors, including political dynamics, stakeholder support, and public opinion. However, Oregon has a history of enacting progressive environmental legislation, which may favor the bill's prospects.
Next Steps for the PNW Battery Community
Given the bill's current status, it's crucial for stakeholders in the Pacific Northwest battery ecosystem to stay informed and engaged. Here are some recommended actions:
- Monitor Legislative Developments: Keep a close eye on the bill's progress through the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS) and other reputable sources.
- Engage with Policymakers: Consider reaching out to members of the House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment to express support, concerns, or suggestions regarding HB 2062.
- Prepare for Potential Changes: Begin assessing how the proposed regulations might impact your operations, and explore strategies to align with the potential new requirements.
- Attend the PNW Battery Collaborative: The Metro Innovation Hub will be hosting a Portland edition of the PNW Battery Collaborative meetup along with Rose City Robotics.
By staying proactive, the PNW battery community can effectively navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and continue to lead in sustainable energy innovation.
HB 2062 represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the battery industry in Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest. By proactively adapting, the PNW battery ecosystem can turn this policy into an advantage, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy storage.
HB 2062 represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the battery industry in Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest. By proactively adapting, the PNW battery ecosystem can turn this policy into an advantage, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy storage.
