When Shourab Malik, a small entrepreneur from Madhya Pradesh, decided to start a lithium-ion battery recycling unit in 2024, he thought his main challenges would be technology and investment.
But within months, he realised that the real test wasn’t the machinery — it was compliance.
His proposal for a battery recycling facility stalled because he hadn’t completed CPCB recycler registration, a mandatory approval under the Battery Waste Management Rules 2022.
If you’re planning a lithium-ion battery recycling plant in India, this guide walks you through the entire process — from the CPCB portal to common pitfalls — so you can avoid Shourab’s delays and operate with confidence.
Before you apply for a license or set up a plant, you must register as a Recycler on the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) EPR Portal — https://eprbattery.cpcb.gov.in.
This registration confirms that your facility is authorised to handle, process, and recycle used batteries as per the Battery Waste Management Rules (BWM) 2022, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986.
The Battery Waste Management Rules 2022 replaced the earlier Batteries (Management & Handling) Rules 2001, expanding the scope from lead–acid batteries to include lithium-ion, nickel, alkaline, and other chemistries.
These rules ensure traceability of waste batteries and accountability of recyclers — a vital step as India moves toward circular energy systems.
Before applying, prepare the following:
| Parameter | Value / Finding (2025) | Source / Context |
|---|---|---|
| Operational battery recyclers in India | ~674 units | CPCB data (2025) |
| Registered recyclers under BWM Rules 2022 | ~75 recyclers | MEW Consultants, 2025 |
| Share of lithium-ion recyclers | 30–35 % of total | Green Permits analysis |
| Average CPCB processing time | 45–60 days after submission | Portal observations 2024–25 |
Interpretation: Only a small fraction of operational units have completed formal registration. Timely registration is now essential to secure contracts with producers fulfilling EPR obligations.
Producers of EVs, electronics, and batteries are mandated to meet EPR targets only through registered recyclers.
Registration thus becomes your entry ticket to the formal supply chain.
Only registered recyclers can issue EPR certificates that producers redeem.
This creates a parallel revenue stream beyond scrap recovery.
Banks and investors increasingly request CPCB certification before funding waste-management projects.
Having registration simplifies due diligence and improves credibility.
Operating without CPCB authorisation can trigger closure notices under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act and financial penalties for every day of violation.
| Challenge | Impact | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect or incomplete documents | Application rejection | Cross-verify document list before submission |
| Portal errors / upload failures | Delayed approval | Compress and rename documents clearly |
| Lack of CTE/CTO or outdated consent | Ineligibility | Renew SPCB consents before applying |
| Mismatch in recycling capacity | Rejection or re-inspection | Align portal data with SPCB consent values |
| Missing geo-images or unclear process flow | Application returned for clarification | Include high-resolution photographs and schematic |
Interpretation: Many recyclers delay 3–4 months due to small document errors. A pre-audit checklist prevents repetitive submissions.
Shourab’s lithium-ion recycling unit in Indore faced a three-month delay because his team uploaded outdated CTO documents.
After revising and re-submitting, his CPCB registration was approved in 47 days.
He now processes 1,200 tonnes per year and has tie-ups with two EV-battery producers for EPR fulfilment.
His biggest lesson: “Get your paperwork right the first time. CPCB officials respond faster when everything matches SPCB records.”
Under Rule 11 of the BWM Rules 2022:
These provisions make CPCB registration not just a formality but a core compliance requirement.
Every registered recycler must file annual returns online through the CPCB portal.
The report includes:
Timely submission ensures seamless renewal and protects your credibility.
| Year | Minimum EPR Target for Producers (Recovered Material %) | Implication for Recyclers |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 20 % | Early opportunity to sign contracts with producers meeting initial obligations |
| 2024-25 | 30 % | Increased demand for registered recyclers with traceable recovery data |
| 2025-26 | 40 % | Recyclers with CPCB registration gain competitive edge |
| 2026-27 onwards | 50 %+ | Industry consolidation expected around compliant recyclers |
Interpretation: As targets rise, unregistered recyclers will be phased out, while compliant units capture larger market share.
India’s battery recycling sector is entering a decisive decade.
The difference between a compliant and non-compliant recycler isn’t just paperwork — it’s access to the formal market, funding, and long-term sustainability.
For entrepreneurs like Shourab Malik, early CPCB registration transformed uncertainty into opportunity.
It opened doors to OEM contracts, ensured regulatory security, and positioned his plant as a trusted partner in India’s circular-energy future.
If you’re planning to start or regularize your lithium-ion battery recycling unit, begin with compliance.
Green Permits can help you navigate the paperwork, avoid delays, and obtain your CPCB recycler registration smoothly.
📞 +91 78350 06182 | 📧 wecare@greenpermits.in
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Yes. EPR registration applies to producers/importers; recycler registration applies to those actually processing waste batteries.
No. CPCB registration is mandatory under Rule 4(2) of BWM Rules 2022.
Typically 45–60 days if documents are correct.
Yes, depending on plant capacity and category; paid through the portal.
Registration can be suspended and renewal denied.
Yes, if both chemistries and capacities are specified in your registration certificate.
