As wind power continues to supply a growing share of the UK’s energy needs, many wind turbines are approaching the end of their operational lifespans. With nearly 90% of a wind turbine composed of recyclable materials such as steel, aluminium, and copper, EMR has said that the new facility will enable these metals to “re-enter the circular economy”.
The initiative is part of Re-Rewind, a collaborative project between industry and academia led by EMR, which aims to establish a circular supply chain for the rare earth magnets used in modern wind turbines. According to EMR, the Re-Rewind project, part-funded by Innovate UK, will also drive research and development in magnet reclamation at the new centre.
‘Well placed’
Morag Watson, director of onshore at Scottish Renewables, said: “With sustainability at its heart, Scotland’s renewable energy sector is well placed to lead the way in developing industry standards that prioritise resource recovery, reuse, repair and remanufacture.
“The wind turbine processing centre being developed by EMR is a great example of how companies are harnessing the opportunities presented by a circular economy and consolidates Scotland’s reputation for leading the way in circular renewables.”
‘Impact’
Dr Charlotte Stamper, strategic partnerships manager at EMR, said: “The positive impact of renewable technologies such as wind power is clear. However, with this facility, all materials used in the construction of wind turbines can be put back into the supply chain, creating a circular economy.
“EMR’s decommissioning hub will create a new pathway for used turbines to be efficiently dismantled, with most components either being immediately recycled by our expert teams or refurbished and made available for reuse.
“EMR’s new Wind Turbine Processing Centre will bring together some of the most exciting research when it comes to reusing or recycling wind turbines, ensuring this green technology is even more sustainable.
“I’m very proud of the leading role that EMR is taking in meeting this challenge head on.”
The new facility has been established within a warehouse originally built for the North British Engine Works in around 1913.
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