Acciona, Bolero Surf create surfboard fins from recycled wind turbine blades

Source | Acciona Energia

Acciona Energia (Madrid, Spain) has partnered with Bolero Surf (Sydney, Australia) to produce what the companies say are the first commercially available surfboard fins made from 100% recycled wind turbine blade fiberglass. The fins were launched at the 2026 NRMA Insurance Australian Boardriders Battle on the Gold Coast, where professional surfer Darcy Crump used them in competition.

The project is part of Acciona’s Turbine Made initiative, which explores ways to repurpose retired wind turbine blades into new materials and products. This is particularly true as Australia faces a growing challenge over the next 5-10 years, with a wave of decommissioned turbine blades that will require end-of-life solutions. Acciona’s goal as part of this project is to work with Australian manufacturers and designers to develop practical, high-performance applications for recovered materials.

The fins in question were designed by Banjo Hunt, founder of Bolero Surf, who spent years evaluating recycled fiberglass (rGF) feedstocks — including caravan panels and boat hulls — before identifying turbine blade material as a viable option. Hunt says most alternatives fell short due to loose weaves and excess resin that compromised the flex and strength required for high-performance fins. The fiberglass found inside turbine blades, by contrast, offered the consistency and structural integrity the application demanded.

The material’s reuse also reduces reliance on virgin resources and eliminates one of the more expensive and labor-intensive steps in conventional fin manufacturing — an advantage Hunt says is helping Bolero Surf consolidate its production in Australia.

“Performance comes first,” says Darcy Crump, who tested the fins in competition. “The fins feel solid and quick around turns. Knowing they are made from recycled turbine blades makes it even better.”

Learn more about the collaboration via the Acciona website.