Energy
Bigger, Better, Greener: The Epoxy Effect
Wind turbines have evolved thanks to epoxy’s magic touch. By enhancing the strength-to-weight ratio of turbine structures, epoxy allows for longer blades that generate more power.
As a result, Europe’s wind energy capacity has soared, with wind energy contributing 15% of energy production in 2021 compared to a mere 2% in 2000. A whopping 255 GW of wind energy capacity will grace European shores by the end of 2022.
Wind farms are making a substantial impact on European energy landscapes. Countries like Denmark (55%), Ireland (34%), the UK (28%), Germany (26%), Portugal (26%), and Spain (25%) are witnessing a substantial portion of their electricity demand met by on- and offshore wind farms.
By producing the same amount of energy with fewer windmills thanks to bigger rotor blades, the wind energy sector saves €9.5 billion, reducing investment and maintenance costs.
Harnessing the Wind: A Revolution in Renewables
In the wind energy sector, epoxy-based composites have taken centre stage! Large windmill rotor blades owe their strength and durability to epoxy resins and reinforcing fibres. Smart grids and turbine insulators also rely on epoxy composites. Epoxy coatings protect steel and concrete windmill towers from corrosion, while epoxy-impregnated concrete strengthens the very core of these renewable giants.
Did you know?
Epoxy is a heavyweight in the energy sector, contributing to 81,000 tonnes of epoxy resins used annually across Europe. The wind energy market alone accounts for 40,000 tonnes of epoxy resins Epoxy Europe members produce annually. European companies involved in wind energy manufacturing generate €11.2 billion in turnover and contribute €4.7 billion annually to the European economy.
| Savings category | Reduction assumptions | Savings €BN |
| Investment cost savings | Less windmills to produce the same amount of energy | 9.3 |
| Reduced maintenance costs | 10% | 0.2 |
| TOTAL | 9.5 |
Summary of savings generated by epoxy rotor blades [1]
Find out more: Epoxies and Energy Brochure
References
[1] ‘Epoxy Resins updated Socio-economic Assessment’, 2019
[2] ‘Epoxy Resins Socio-economic Assessment’, 2015