Malaysia proposes reusing retired EV batteries for rural power supply
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Malaysia has proposed turning retired electric vehicle batteries into energy storage systems for rural communities, indigenous settlements and healthcare facilities. The idea was presented as part of a wider circular economy push at COP31 in Turkiye.
Malaysia has proposed repurposing retired electric vehicle batteries into energy storage systems to support electricity supply in rural communities, indigenous settlements and healthcare facilities. The proposal is meant to extend the benefits of the circular economy to underserved areas.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the idea, called the “Circular Equity Dividend,” is one of three solutions Malaysia put forward to speed up urban circularity and advance the zero-waste agenda.
He presented the proposal during the Malaysia Pavilion TED Talk session themed “Closing the Loop: Malaysia's Journey Towards Zero Waste” at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkiye.
Nga said Malaysia’s Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste 2025–2035 targets a 40 per cent recycling rate and diversion of 53 per cent of waste from landfills by 2035, with support from EPR, separation at source and pilot zero waste districts in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
What it means for you: retired EV batteries may have a second life in energy projects that support rural infrastructure, which could create more demand for battery reuse and recycling services.
Source: BERNAMA
