When Wind Turbines Are Retired, Circularity Takes Over

Wind farms play a crucial role in the energy transition, by generating CO2-free electricity, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But what happens to these turbines at the end of their life? Currently, there is a lack of sufficient knowledge about efficient decommissioning and material recycling. Ready4Decom addresses these challenges by clarifying the regulatory framework at the European, federal and regional levels and providing policy recommendations. In addition, the project seeks innovative solutions for decommissioning both on land and offshore. Ready4Decom also wants to create new economic opportunities and jobs within the decommissioning sector.

Minimum Environmental Impact and Maximum Economic Impact

Ready4Decom aims to provide circular solutions at every stage of the decommissioning of wind turbines. The project promotes sea transport to minimize carbon emissions, and prioritises reuse of materials to reduce costs and waste. Where reuse is not possible, recycling is encouraged, preferably within Belgium. This keeps valuable resources within the local economy. In addition, the project supports companies in the sector in integrating circular models into their operations.

A Platform for Better Collaboration

To further facilitate the circular transition within the industry, Ready4Decom is developing a digital platform that centralises crucial information. This platform will include interactive tools and case studies to make regulations more accessible and highlight innovative circular models. It also encourages cooperation among the various actors in the sector. The methods and tools developed through the platform can also be applied in other fields, such as solar parks or large-scale infrastructure projects. Ready4Decom is aiming to become a practical guide and source of inspiration for the further rollout of circular models in Belgium and beyond.

The platform will also form the basis for Belgian expertise in the area of decommissioning and act as a central point of contact for governments, industry and research institutions. Instead of a traditional business model, Ready4Decom applies a network model, bringing together companies in the entire process - from decommissioning to material processing. Transparency, cooperation and knowledge sharing are crucial in this regard. A specialised consulting firm also supports the companies in their strategic positioning, market analysis and further development.

Rebecca Verhaeghe, Blue Energy Project Manager, elaborates: "Our choice for sustainability within this project reflects our commitment to developing solutions that are both environmentally sound and economically viable, thereby contributing to a more sustainable future for the industry and the environment."

Federal Support As an Engine for Circular Innovation

The "Belgium Builds Back Circular" (BBBC) fund is a federal initiative that supports the transition to a circular economy. The FPS Public Health, along with other federal partners, is actively contributing to the implementation and monitoring in this regard. It is funded by the temporary European fund Next Generation EU and is part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP).

This support allowed Ready4Decom to mobilise partners faster, develop innovative circular solutions and lay the foundations for a national strategy for the decommissioning of wind turbines.

For more information about the circular projects supported by the federal government: Belgian projects for a circular economy | FPS Public Health.