Dispute Resolution Energy.gov

Are lithium-ion batteries sold directly to consumers?

Most lithium-ion batteries are not sold directly to consumers — you can't run down to your typical corner drugstore to pick up a replacement battery for your iPhone, your PC, or your electric car. Instead, manufacturers buy lithium-ion batteries and build them into electronics and cars.

Why are lithium-ion batteries a problem?

However, in the applications that require lots of power, like EVs and energy storage systems, a large number of batteries need to be packaged in serial and parallel to be a battery pack. This causes problems of costs, stability, consistency and safety. These problems limit the applications of lithium-ion batteries.

What happened to lithium batteries?

Lithium batteries contain a flammable electrolyte that can become pressurized when damaged causing them to rupture. This could cause the batteries to overheat and possibly catch fire and/or explode. Additional items containing potentially hazardous materials including solar panels and waste electronics were also found at the warehouse.

Will the Supreme Court review the lithium-ion batteries antitrust lawsuit?

On November 16, 2022, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected one objection related to the $113 million in settlements obtained in the Lithium-Ion Batteries Antitrust Litigation. The objector has until February 14, 2023 to file a petition asking the Supreme Court to review this decision.

Are used lithium-ion batteries exploding?

Used lithium-ion batteries. Image by shutterstock. As manufacturers, retailers and suppliers continue to face exposure for exploding lithium-ion batteries, it is important that they take proactive steps to protect themselves; this article provides helpful and practical advice.

When will class members get paid for a lithium-ion battery lawsuit?

Class members should begin receiving their payments for the Lithium-Ion Batteries Antitrust Litigation in the coming weeks. On November 16, 2022, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected the one objection related to the $113 million in settlements.