Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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91. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the effects of lightning on wind turbines has been investigated; if in particular sulphur hexafluoride can escape into the atmosphere if a turbine is struck by lightning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37726/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) is a gas which is used globally as an insulate throughout the electricity generation, transmission, and distribution systems, including in switchgear equipment in some wind turbines.

In Ireland, wind turbines are governed under the 2008 European Communities (Machinery) Regulations (S.I. No. 407/2008) and the Health and Safety Authority ensures compliance of products with harmonised EU requirements.

The use of fluorinated greenhouse gases, including the use of Sulphur Hexafluoride in electrical switchgear, is governed at EU level by Regulation (EU) No 517/2014. A proposed updated version of this regulation is currently in negotiation at EU level and is being progressed through the European Parliament.