AEA Technology announced plans to will develop technology for the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. The company expects this project to be complete and be operational by the end of next year.
AEA Technology is also establishing a new research and development facility in the area for its battery systems business, allowing the business to develop a range of new products.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise will provide funding of close to $1.8 million to assist in building the facility.
Environmental regulations which will be introduced in 2005 will mean that battery manufacturers and equipment suppliers will be increasingly responsible for the recycling of their batteries. Currently, lithium-ion batteries are shipped to France where they are incinerated and material recovery is limited.