ReUse: Second Life of EV batteries

The Department of Electrical Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Malta is continuing to advance research in battery reuse and second-life energy systems as part of the ReUse project, which is funded through the 2022 Research and Innovation scheme of the Energy and Water Agency with project number EWA/37/23/2.

In collaboration with Abertax Quality Ltd, the research team completed successful field tests of its custom-designed Battery Management System (BMS), which enables the safe reuse of lithium-ion batteries removed from electric vehicles.

These tests have laid the groundwork for a locally viable second-life battery ecosystem, addressing both technical challenges and circular economy goals.

The BMS platform was recently integrated into case studies including a solar energy storage system optimised for energy self-consumption and an electric boat (a traditional luzzu converted to electric).

In both instances, used battery cells, which were deemed no longer suitable for automotive vehicles were repurposed and actively managed through the ReUse system.

Such applications demonstrate not only technical feasibility but also open new possibilities for second-life battery deployment in decentralised power systems and marine applications.

As flexible batteries are becoming increasingly critical to Malta’s transition toward sustainable infrastructure, the ReUse project presented a model of innovation aligned with national and EU priorities.

The project also included training, public engagement and structured stakeholder input to support safe reuse practices across the country.

As the project concludes, the team begins larger-scale cycling tests, software upgrades for enhanced battery diagnostics and collaborations with local technical players.

The forthcoming activities will ensure that battery reuse becomes more than a research initiative—it becomes a Maltese reality.