Orzeł Biały, Poland’s largest company specializing in recycling spent lead-acid batteries, has launched a strategic review that could see it enter the recycling of electric vehicle batteries and photovoltaic panels. The move comes as the firm adapts to shifting battery technologies and stricter EU circular economy rules.
The company’s board decided on June 11, 2026 to begin work on updating its development strategy and defining new strategic directions. Orzeł Biały points to global changes in battery production technology and the emergence of alternatives to lead-acid batteries as key factors reshaping its market environment.
– Uwzględniając konieczność zabezpieczenia ciągłości produkcji, obserwowane trendy rynkowe oraz aktualne otoczenie prawne przedsiębiorstwa, w tym wynikającą z aktów normatywnych Unii Europejskiej, potrzebę dążenia do osiągnięcia jak najlepszych efektów w ramach gospodarki o obiegu zamkniętym, zarząd spółki podjął decyzję o rozpoczęciu prac nad aktualizacją strategii rozwoju i określeniu nowych kierunków strategicznych – stated the company in a regulatory filing.
New strategic directions
The first area under consideration is recycling of batteries and accumulators other than lead-acid, particularly lithium-ion cells used in electric vehicles. Orzeł Biały plans to develop, acquire or implement technologies for processing these alternative batteries.
Potential mergers and acquisitions are also on the table, which could allow the company to achieve synergies and expand into new, including international, markets. Another focus is new environmental technologies to improve production processes and waste management efficiency.
Solar panel recycling and future investments
A significant segment is the recycling of photovoltaic panels, seen as a key element of sustainable development in the renewable energy sector. The company is also considering investments in renewable energy sources or related technologies, and exploring innovative OZE solutions for industrial processes.
Additionally, Orzeł Biały is evaluating the construction of a new waste landfill to ensure long-term waste management security. These areas form the main directions for defining the company’s future strategic growth.
Funding for these development activities is expected to come primarily from internally generated profits, including retained earnings from previous years, as well as EU funds and other available sources.
In the first quarter of 2026, Orzeł Biały’s group revenue was 153.5 million złoty, slightly down from 154.3 million a year earlier. Net profit fell to 10.8 million złoty from 27.1 million in Q1 2025.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. EAKARAT BUANOI / Shutterstock
