China launches first large-scale project to reuse retired wind turbines

(ECNS)-- China has launched its first large-scale project to recycle and reuse retired wind turbines in Jiuquan, Gansu Province, according to China Resources Recycling Group on Monday.

The project involves refurbishing 25 wind turbines that have been in operation for more than 15 years. It aims to fill a gap in China’s high-value recycling and reuse of large-scale wind power equipment.

Engineers are testing key components, including generators, gearboxes and towers, and repairing and upgrading them using independently developed technologies. The refurbished turbines have shown significantly improved performance, with some core components performing close to the level of brand-new products. They can be reused at small local power stations and for industrial power supply.

Traditionally, retired wind turbines are either sent to landfills or incinerated. The new project increases the material reuse rate of wind turbines from 30% to 70%, helping reduce pollution and save land, according to project manager Jiang Dong. 

The company plans to establish a nationwide recycling network to standardize the recycling and reuse of retired wind and solar power equipment.

(By Helen Mo, intern Lin Qiaochu)