Europe considers a substance exemption in EEE

The European Commission opens consultation till July 8, 2022, on the exemption of hexavalent chromium usage. According to the proposal, the exemption of the use of hexavalent chromium as an anticorrosion agent in gas absorption heat pumps (GAHPs) will end on December 31, 2026.

This consultation is under Annex III of the Directive on the restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS) in electronic and electrical equipment. The exemption is due to the unavailability of other anticorrosion agents. Also, other heat pumps that are available have less energy efficiency.

The Commission evaluates that with this exemption, about 38g of hexavalent chromium will be used per GAHP and around 1,400 kg would be placed on the market annually.

Generally, some hazardous substances are restricted in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) under the Directive of RoHS. However, specific, and time-limited exemptions can be granted for substances when requested by stakeholders, as long as the request/substance meets the necessary criteria.