European Commission addresses PFAS concerns in wind energy

European Commission officials have responded to inquiries regarding the use of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in wind turbine blades. These substances, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their inability to break down naturally, are used to increase the weather resistance of rotor blades.

The Commission stated that it cannot yet determine how to manage the use of PFAS in wind energy technology while the final scientific assessment from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is still pending. This response has drawn criticism from MEP Gerald Hauser, who described the Commission's position as a ‘political revelation of bankruptcy,’ noting the tension between the push for wind energy expansion and the potential environmental and health risks posed by chemical runoff from these installations.