SSbD Framework for Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices (D6.1)

Innovation in electrochemical energy storage is increasingly dependent on what are called Advanced Materials (AM). AM are intentionally designed and engineered to possess enhanced physicochemical properties, structural modifications, or improved functional performance to meet the demanding requirements of next-generation energy storage solutions. Nevertheless, the development of AM and their use in different product applications may present challenges including safety (in manufacturing and consumer applications), potential environmental impacts, resource dependencies, and socio-economic aspects. Given these complexities, SSbD is the recommended framework for guiding, assessing or comparing innovation avenues.This report outlines a SSbD (Safe and Sustainable by Design) framework aimed at supporting electrochemical energy storage devices innovation across all maturity levels, from early-stage research to market deployment. The framework follows a hierarchical approach in which safety aspects are considered first, followed by environmental (including circularity) aspects, social and economic aspects. The report also introduces a workflow for implementing SSbD in electrochemical energy storage development, integrating established safety assessment tools, life cycle modeling frameworks, and literature-based best practices. By bridging the European Commission (EC)’s overarching SSbD methodology with sector-specific sustainability challenges, this framework provides a structured yet adaptable tool for guiding responsible innovation in electrochemical energy storage technologies. As of 2025-04-29, this deliverable has not yet been accepted by the European Commission.