The Yellow Zone initiative represents a practical pathway for transforming used batteries into community energy assets within a circular battery economy.
Yellow Zone Symposium – November 5-6, 2026
A two-day gathering of engineers, policymakers, industry leaders, and community organizations to initiate a circular battery economy in Puerto Rico.
This symposium is designed to move beyond concept and into coordinated action.
Participants will engage in:
• Technical frameworks for battery repurposing
• Workforce development strategies in the G-8 communities
• Economic models for sustainable deployment
• Partnerships across academia, industry, and government
What is the Yellow Zone?
The Yellow Zone exists between the aftermarket and recycling.
Reconditioned battery modules that are not adequate for the vehicle aftermarket may be repurposed for lower-power applications such as household backup systems.
This approach:
• Extends the useful life of battery materials
• Reduces waste and cost
• Creates local workforce opportunities
Why does Puerto Rico need a Battery Circular Economy?
Puerto Rico presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
Frequent grid instability, high energy costs, and environmental vulnerability make resilient, distributed energy systems essential.
At the same time, the island can lead in demonstrating how circular energy economies are built from the ground up—linking technology, workforce development, and community participation.
The documentary film Powering Puerto Rico discusses how Dr. Eugene S. Smotkin repurposed batteries by integrating used Toyota Prius battery modules with photovoltaic panels to supply backup power to homes in Puerto Rico. This film was a collaboration between Northeastern University and TECRE.
Battery Module Reconditioning for Reuse
The EVc-30 NiMH battery reconditioning unit has recovers battery capacity for the aftermarket and community energy worldwide.
Following Hurricane Maria, early implementations demonstrated the feasibility of repurposed battery systems for household backup.
• Multi-module system deployed in Utuado
• Low-power configurations meeting essential household needs
• Community-level engagement in deployment and use
These initial efforts provide the foundation for scaling through the Yellow Zone framework.
About TECRE
The Technology and Education Center for Renewable Energy (TECRE) is a nonprofit platform advancing circular energy systems through research, education, and community deployment.
TECRE connects academic research with real-world implementation, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions for Puerto Rico.
Attend the Circular Battery Economy Symposium to Learn More
The symposium—tentatively scheduled for November 5th and 6th, 2026—marks the starting point for building a coordinated circular battery economy.
We invite:
• Researchers and engineers
• Industry partners
• Policymakers
• Community organizations
Ways to engage:
• Attend the symposium
• Partner in pilot projects
• Support workforce development initiatives
