A new European cross-sector platform has been set up to progress innovative methods for recycling wind turbine blades. With thousands due to be decommissioned over the next five years, WindEurope, Cefic (the European Chemical Industry Council) and EUCIA (the European Composites Industry Association) are working together to find recycling solutions.
“Wind energy is an increasingly important part of Europe’s energy mix. The first generation of wind turbines are now starting to come to the end of their operational life and be replaced by modern turbines. Recycling the old blades is a top priority for us, and teaming up with the chemical and compositors industries will enable us to do it the most effective way,” said WindEurope CEO, Giles Dickson.
A composite material is used to make blades, with 2.5 million tons currently used in the sector. Ideas generated from this collaboration will be applicable to other markets seeking to boost the sustainability of composites.
