EV Battery Recycling to Be Key Investment Recovery Sector in 2026: Market Projected at $6.9 Billion, Achieving Over 95% Metal Recovery Rates

June 13, 2026

Invrecovery USA

Overview

EV battery recycling is emerging as a critical area for investment recovery in 2026, with the global lithium-ion battery recycling market projected to reach $6.9 billion. Modern hydrometallurgical recycling technology can recover over 95% of lithium and cobalt, and 97% of nickel, transforming spent batteries into a revenue stream. Three end-of-life pathways are competing: refurbishment, second-life energy storage, and material recycling, with second-life capacity expected to scale significantly by 2030. In the U.S., Redwood Materials and Cirba Solutions are scheduled to open large-scale recycling facilities by the end of 2026 and mid-2026, respectively, strengthening domestic supply chains.

In Depth

Report Overview

This article provides an overview of a market analysis on EV battery recycling, presented by Invrecovery.

Key Findings

**Market Size:** The global lithium-ion battery recycling market is projected to reach $6.9 billion in 2026.
**Recovery Rates:** Modern hydrometallurgical recycling technologies are capable of recovering over 95% of lithium and cobalt, and 97% of nickel, transforming waste into a valuable revenue stream.
**Recycling Pathways:** Three primary end-of-life pathways for spent EV batteries are identified: refurbishment, second-life energy storage, and material recycling.
**Second-Life Market:** Second-life energy storage capacity is anticipated to expand significantly by 2030, presenting a crucial opportunity to extend battery lifecycles.
**U.S. Developments:** In the United States, Redwood Materials’ Ridgeville facility in South Carolina is projected to be operational by the end of 2026, while Cirba Solutions’ Lancaster plant in Ohio is expected to finish by mid-2026, enhancing domestic recycling capabilities.
**Economic Impact:** Battery recycling is essential for turning waste into profit, reducing dependence on critical minerals, and strengthening domestic battery supply chains.