T&D Working Group becomes ECHA Accredited Stakeholder Observer

T&D Europe is pleased to announce that its application to become an accredited stakeholder of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has been accepted. This accreditation allows T&D Europe to request participation in meetings of the Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC) on relevant matters.

T&D Europe’s ‘Working Group REACH’ has been actively monitoring European chemical regulatory framework affecting the electricity grid technology sector, including the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), and Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS). As part of these efforts, the working group  has responded to ECHA’s consultation on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and has published a high-level statement on PFAS, representing the European T&D industry. It continues to collaborate closely with key stakeholders in this field.

Since 2023, RAC and SEAC have been evaluating a proposal to restrict over 10,000 PFAS under the REACH regulation, adopting a sector-by-sector approach. By the end of 2024, discussions had been concluded on PFAS restrictions in eight sectors, including consumer mixtures, ski wax, cosmetics, food contact materials and packaging, metal plating and metal product manufacturing, petroleum and mining, TULAC, and construction products. However, with over 20 sectors to be discussed, the energy sector remains a critical area of discussion – not only due to its broad impact on daily life but also because of its crucial role in the energy transition and climate targets.

Within the T&D industry, PFAS have been used in electrical insulation and sealing, particularly for their ability to withstand harsh conditions. Given its new status as an accredited stakeholder, Working Group REACH is committed to actively monitoring and engaging in ongoing discussions on PFAS regulations. In particular, it is essential for the working group to participate in the upcoming March meetings on PFAS restrictions in the energy sector.