EU bans hafnium and zirconium in water heaters, prices may soar

Hafnium and zirconium, key materials used in water heaters, have been declared unsafe and removed from the European Union"s new list of approved substances. This decision is part of the EU"s new drinking water regulations, which will come into effect in 2027.

Experts warn that the transition to alternative materials could result in costs nearly five times higher than current prices. As a consequence, up to 90% of water heaters may be removed from the market, potentially leading to significant price increases and worsening living conditions for consumers.

This regulatory change highlights ongoing efforts by the EU to enhance safety standards, although it has sparked concerns regarding the impact on everyday life for citizens. For further context on recent developments affecting public safety, see related coverage.