BATx – Fundación Socya

Investing in Impact

P4G has awarded the partnership about US $162,500 in grant funding. 

The improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries in Latin America poses a major environmental threat, as the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems has led to a surge in end-of-life batteries.  Over 70% of lithium-ion batteries are prematurely discarded, not because recycling or diagnostics are unavailable, but because manufacturers choose to dispose of them. Many could be repaired, yet few companies specialize in this, and EV providers doubt local repair capabilities. This leads to hazardous waste, soil contamination and higher carbon emissions.

Additionally, the demand for critical minerals like lithium and cobalt intensifies the environmental impact of battery production. The market is highly linear and lacks scalable, cost-effective solutions, often relying on expensive exports for recycling. BATx addresses this gap by providing localized diagnostics, repair and second-life battery solutions, reducing waste, lowering costs and driving the region’s energy transition.

As the first company in the region to manufacture and repurpose lithium-ion batteries, BATx delivers second-life batteries and diagnostic services to commercial and industrial clients, government entities, EV dealerships and electrical substations. Its in-house, patented diagnostic technology ensures precise battery evaluation, optimizing performance and scalability. 

BATx’s primary offerings range from 10-300kWh energy storage systems, with plans to scale up to 1MWh and larger solutions to meet the growing demand for grid-scale BESS in Colombia and the broader region. Revenue is generated via direct sales of second-life batteries, diagnostics and repair services, collected through contracts and partnership agreements.

During the partnership period, BATx will strengthen its operations and acquire critical certifications, enhancing compliance with international standards crucial for its role as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and service provider. BATx will also advocate for policies that support the integration of second-life batteries into energy systems and technology circularity. It will collaborate with stakeholders to establish regulatory frameworks that prioritize reuse over destruction, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards like the Colombian Technical Regulations for Electrical Installations (RETIE) and Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RAEE).

Socya will support BATx in developing a comprehensive ESG strategy aligned with global sustainability standards. This strategy will focus on reducing BATx’s carbon footprint, improving waste management and contributing meaningfully to local communities. 

The partnership will also establish a committee composed of experts in the energy sector who are actively promoting or involved in gender equity initiatives. This committee will help identify and address the challenges BATx faces in increasing female participation in its workforce, attracting female applicants and fostering gender diversity. Through this initiative, BATx aims to engage with industry leaders and stakeholders to drive discussions that contribute to greater awareness and the development of more inclusive policies in the sector.

The partnership comprises the following partners: BATx (lead business partner); Socya (lead administrative partner).