Reka Cables to phase out PVC cables by the end of 2027 – growing demand for halogen-free alternatives
Reka Cables is committed to sustainable and fire-safe construction: by the end of 2027, the company will completely discontinue the production of cables containing PVC. This significant decision supports the electrification of society and responds to increasing environmental and safety requirements.
In recent years, the shift has already been visible at Reka Cables: in Finland, halogen-free cables now account for 96% of network construction, and two-thirds of installation cables produced by Reka are already halogen-free. Nearly all traditional PVC cables have halogen-free counterparts, and product development continues to improve them further.
“We’ve reshaped the market together with our customers. Now it’s time to take the next step and eliminate PVC entirely. There’s still some uncertainty in installation work, for example, regarding the halogen-free EQQ cable, which is essentially the same product as the traditional MMJ. However, EQQ is easier to use and safer,” says Marko Mäkelä, Product Manager.
Halogen-free means safer and lower risk
Halogen-free cables offer several advantages over PVC cables. In the event of a fire, they are safer because they do not release harmful gases or thick black smoke, which can hinder evacuation and rescue efforts. They also reduce damage caused by acidic combustion gases to electronics, structures, and surfaces—speeding up reuse of spaces and minimizing production downtime.
“Safety evolves step by step. Seatbelts weren’t always used in cars, but today no one questions their necessity. Similarly, halogen-free cables represent progress in electrical installations—they make structures safer without compromising performance or cost-efficiency. From the perspective of safe electrification, PVC’s time is over,” says , Director of Product Development.
Reka Cables’ products carry the Key Flag symbol, representing Finnish quality and expertise. The company continues to invest in product development and customer collaboration to ensure a smooth transition from PVC to halogen-free cables, further enhancing construction safety and efficiency.
MMJ vs. EQQ?
MMJ
- Traditional installation cable containing PVC plastic.
- Used for decades.
- Releases harmful gases and thick black smoke when burning.
- Flame-retardant in CPR class Eca.
EQQ LiteRex and new EQQ-HF D HELPPO
- Halogen-free installation cable with the same use case as MMJ.
- Very easy to handle and clean to install.
- Safer in fire situations: no harmful gases or thick black smoke.
- Halogen-free and flame-retardant in CPR class Dca-s2,d2,a2.
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