Navigating digital transformation in the battery information ecosystem: a roadmap for the UK toward compliance with EU Battery Passports and Smart Labeling regulations

The European Union's Battery Regulation (EU/2023/1542) introduces mandatory Battery Passports and Smart Labeling to enhance sustainability, traceability, and compliance across the battery lifecycle. This study investigates the readiness of UK producers to meet these digital compliance requirements. Using a mixed-methods design, it integrates survey responses from 80 organizations with insights from a stakeholder roundtable and expert interviews. Results show limited awareness of regulatory obligations, significant gaps in data availability, and low organizational and technological preparedness, particularly among SMEs. Participants identified key challenges including fragmented ICT systems, lack of interoperability standards, and the high administrative burden of compliance. Comparative analysis with EU initiatives highlights more advanced technical frameworks and government-backed support in Member States. The study concludes by outlining a roadmap for UK stakeholders to improve digital readiness through clearer guidance, investment in interoperable infrastructures, and closer alignment with EU standardization processes.