From blades to skis
Together with partners, we work on innovative ideas to extend the lifespan of our materials.
Vattenfall is constantly exploring new ways to recycle materials from the rotor blades of our wind turbines when they are decommissioned. The skis developed in collaboration with the recycling company Gjenkraft, and the Norwegian ski manufacturer and founder of Evi Ski, Endre Hals, are a brilliant example of this.
Here you can read about how the skis went from idea to reality, and get an insight into some of our other innovative projects for circularity.
Making skis from old turbine blades
In a wooden barn in Lønset, one of Norway’s largest alpine areas, Endre Hals holds a handful of black carbon fibre strands. For 25 years, these fibres were crucial to the stability of wind turbine blades that captured strong winds at the Irene Vorrink wind farm in the Netherlands. Soon, they will ensure the stability of a pair of highly coveted touring skis.
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Watch as Endre creates skis from decommissioned rotor blades
In this video, he shares details about the ski manufacturing process, including the techniques and materials used.
How a wind farm became part of a ski
Five years ago, Vattenfall was planning the dismantling of one of its first major wind farms. At the same time, Vattenfall decided to rule out sending the materials to landfill. In the search for alternative ways of working, they quickly found a match with Norwegian recycling company Gjenkraft. Today, the unique collaboration has resulted in the production of skis using carbon fiber from rotor blades.
Innovative projects for more circularity
A tiny house made from wind turbines, a car park with walls made from cut rotor blades, and a 'watchful eye' that facilitates plastic recycling. These are all examples of initiatives within Vattenfall that show how to reduce material use, by both reusing and extending its lifetime. Here you can read about some of the circular projects Vattenfall is currently working on.
See also
Find images, press contacts and other information about From blades to skis.
We have an important role in the transition to a circular economy.
Renewable energy, like wind power, is the key to reducing global CO2 emissions.