Commission adds exemptions to portable battery removal rules
4 hours ago
- The European Commission adopted a delegated act on July 14, 2026, exempting additional products from requirements for consumer-removable portable batteries under the EU Batteries Regulation.
- Products already exempt include medical devices and 'wet appliances' like electric toothbrushes; batteries in these must be removable by independent professionals for safety reasons.
- Six new product categories are added to the exemption list, including wearable devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, electric toys, and equipment under the ATEX Directive for explosive atmospheres.
- The Commission also updated guidelines on battery removability and replaceability to help manufacturers apply the new derogations.
- The delegated act will enter into force 20 days after publication in the EU Official Journal unless the European Parliament or Council objects.