Life of Rotating Equipment

IN FOCUS Turbine Maintenance  O&M Operations IMPROVING THE SERVICE LIFE OF ROTATING EQUIPMENT

PROFILE Brüel & Kjær Vibro

FEBRUARY 2020 windsystemsmag.com [email protected]

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www.bachmann.info CONTENTS

]]PROFILE IN FOCUS Brüel & Kjær Vibro is a machine condition monitoring company that provides IMPROVING THE SERVICE LIFE solutions to the industry to maximize machine uptime while minimizing the life-cycle costs with reduced OF ROTATING maintenance. 20 EQUIPMENT Technicians can prolong rotating equipment life in wind-turbine operations through proper bearings selection and installation, appropriate maintenance practices, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

BUILDING AN AMERICAN CTV SUPPLY CHAIN ]]CONVERSATION In order to properly maintain the operations Chris Hardy, director of Sales with Cv International, discusses how his of offshore turbines in the U.S., a full modern fleet company’s products make sense for the of crew transfer vessels will be paramount. 16 wind sector. 24

2 FEBRUARY 2020 THE COVER Stuttershock / Designed by Michele Hall Elevate.

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LEARN MORE AT CLEANPOWEREXPO.ORG SECTIONS February 2020 VOLUME 12  NUMBER 2

]]THE FUTURE OF WIND TAILWINDS

THE BUSINESS OF WIND

DIRECTION 8 ]]INNOVATION Vestas to become carbon-neutral by 2030  Allete secures tax Greenbyte Energy equity funding for its two newest wind sites  NOIA announces Cloud supports Skyline Renewables 26 new staff changes ]]CONSTRUCTION Acciona puts its ninth U.S. wind farm into service in Texas 29

]]MAINTENANCE CROSSWINDS Study: Fall protection equipment 36 market size worth $2.9 billion by 2026 30 A RENEWABLE FUTURE IS NOW IN REACH ]]MANUFACTURING As the energy industry evolves, companies and technicians need Semco, Bladt ink substation to be mobile, innovative, technology-focused, and work to ensure contract with Mayflower knowledge is shared and a competitive advantage is gained. Wind 31

Wind Systems (ISSN 2327-2422) is published monthly by Media Solutions, Inc., 266D Yeager Parkway Pelham, AL 35124. Phone (205) 380-1573 Fax (205) 380-1580 International subscription rates: $72.00 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid at Pelham, AL and at additional mailing offices. Printed in the USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wind Systems magazine, P.O. Box 1210 Pelham AL 35124. Publications mail agreement No. 41395015 return undeliverable Canadian addresses to P.O. Box 503 RPO West Beaver Creek Richmond Hill, ON L4B4R6. Copyright 2006 by Media Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.

4 FEBRUARY 2020 GET CONNECTED WIndSystemsmag.com is your online authority for information about the wind energy industry.

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SYSTEMS

Get your FREE subscription, plus our online content, at www.windsystemsmag.com FROM THE EDITOR

David C. Cooper The PTC lives on for another year Publisher EDITORIAL he end of 2019 was meant to be the end of the production tax credit Kenneth Carter (PTC). Editor The tax credit was an amazing benefit for renewables, allowing a Jennifer Jacobson Tper-kilowatt-hour (kWh) tax credit for electricity generated using qualified Associate Editor energy resources. Joe Crowe And although the PTC has been around in some capacity since 1992, it was Contributing Editor scheduled to be phased out by December 31. But, in a somewhat pleasant surprise, renewables got a bit of an unexpect- SALES ed Christmas gift when President Trump signed into David Gomez law an extension of the PTC through 2020. The law National Sales Manager also raises the value of the PTC to 1.5 cents/kilowatt Tom McNulty hour. Regional Sales Manager Wind developers now have until the end of the year to receive at least 40 percent of the original tax credit. CIRCULATION That’s great news for wind, because, according to Teresa Cooper AWEA, the PTC has done some amazing things for the Manager wind industry, including: Jamie Willett ] The PTC has been a catalyst for investment and Assistant the establishment of a U.S. manufacturing base that has helped drive U.S. wind power costs down by 69 percent over the last decade. DESIGN ] Investing in U.S. wind farms has spurred more than $143 billion in Rick Frennea private investment in the economy over the last 10 years. Creative Director ] About 70 percent of all wind projects are in low-income counties where Michele Hall land lease payments, tax payments, and jobs boost local economic prospects. Graphic Designer ] Joint Committee on Taxation (JTC) projections through 2025 show that when wind-energy incentives phase out, wind energy will only account for about 6 percent of the total, cumulative federal energy incentives. AWEA President Tom Kiernan had this to say about the extension: No part of this publication may be reproduced or “This bipartisan bill is a major win for American consumers. It means transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or more business for over 500 U.S. factories building wind-turbine components, any information storage-and-retrieval system and it means more opportunities for job creation and economic development without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff in the rural communities hosting wind farms. We appreciate that Congress of Wind Systems magazine, or who are not has recognized wind and other renewables’ role in building a strong economy specifically employed by Media Solutions, Inc., are purely their own. All “News” material has either while also reducing carbon emissions.” been submitted by the subject company or pulled Wind Systems wholeheartedly agrees with Kiernan’s position on the ex- directly from their corporate web site, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and tension. It enables the wind industry to continue with its U.S. momentum, submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to [email protected]. especially as wind makes its inevitable move to making more offshore projVertical- Logo Horizontal Logo ects a reality. Enjoy our February issue, and, as always, thanks for reading!

Coop wants to use this one for the website Published by Media Solutions, Inc. P.O. Box 1987 • Pelham, AL 35124 (800) 366-2185 • (205) 380-1580 fax Kenneth Carter, editor [email protected] [email protected] David C. Cooper (800) 366-2185, ext. 204 President Chad Morrison Vice President Teresa Cooper Operations Director 6 FEBRUARY 2020 FYI IRONCLAD

Migratory birds and wind: Looking at reality From AWEA Recently, several House lawmakers introduced a bill that would reform the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The ensuing debate sure to arise provides an excellent opportunity to lay some facts on the table about wind energy’s impact on birds. The truth is wind is the most wildlife friendly way to generate large amounts of electricity. It’s a · First and Best Bolt Caps in the Industry zero-emission energy source that avoids smog-creat- – Approved by all ing air pollution, saves millions of gallons of water Engineers a year, and leaves 98 percent of land in the project’s footprint undisturbed. · Standard Duty Bolt Caps Available in All Common Most importantly, wind is a leading climate Sizes change solution. For example, the book, Drawdown, 800.359.0372 is an examination of 100 different solutions to cli- · Extreme Duty Bolt Caps [email protected] mate change with input from more than 100 of the – One Size Fits All NTCWIND.COM world’s foremost climate researchers. It finds that onshore wind power is the second most effective way Call to inquire about our special limited time pricing! to reduce emissions, and offshore wind ranks 22nd. Despite some public narratives suggesting other- wise, in reality, wind is responsible for less than 0.01 percent of all human-related bird deaths — one out of every 10,000 birds deaths caused by human activities occurs at a wind project. And that does not even include the largest threats to birds — feral cats and habitat degradation (caused by residential and commercial development and agricultural conversion). No one can dispute the importance of birds for our ecosystem and the health of our planet. When it comes to wind energy, there are some basic facts: ] Wind energy provides benefits to birds through reduced greenhouse gases and air pollution, water conservation, and habitat preservation. ] All human activities result in impacts to migratory birds. In terms of overall impacts, wind energy’s impacts are vanishingly small. ] The U.S. wind industry has been a committed conservation partner, putting its money where its Take Your Skills Higher With Our mouth is in supporting entities and programs committed to finding ways to further reduce impacts. Two Intensive, Hands-On Windblade Repair Courses

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windsystemsmag.com 7 DIRECTION

THE FUTURE OF WIND

To become carbon-neutral, Vestas will reduce its global carbon footprint through a 55 percent CO2 reduction by 2025, reaching 100 percent by 2030. (Courtesy: Vestas)

8 FEBRUARY 2020 Vestas to become carbon-neutral by 2030 Vestas is excited to announce it will be from its supply chain by 45 percent per a carbon-neutral company by no later MWh generated by 2030. The measure- Allete secures tax than 2030 — the first of many initia- ment has been chosen because it in- equity funding for its tives to increase our sustainability centivizes sustainability partnerships performance. with suppliers that both reduce CO2 two newest wind sites For Vestas, the reality of the climate emissions and allows for the contin- Allete Clean Energy recently sold crisis is at the center of our business. ued growth of the global renewable Class A passive membership interests In more than 40 years of pioneering energy sector. Vestas will therefore ac- in Great American West Wind LLC to and leading the wind energy industry, tively seek sustainability partnerships JPM Capital Corporation in support of Vestas has worked with customers to with its suppliers. the Glen Ullin Energy Center wind site reduce greenhouse gas emissions by “At Vestas, we are proud of our in North Dakota. driving the transition to replace car- shared purpose and passion to make The Great American West Wind bon-based energy generation with re- the planet a better place and to make LLC tax equity transaction also will newable energy. our work as sustainable as possible,” generate future funding for Allete To become carbon-neutral Vestas said Vestas CEO Henrik Andersen. “To Clean Energy’s South Peak wind site will reduce its global carbon footprint remain at the forefront of the energy in Montana. through a 55 percent CO2 reduction transition, we must do even more “This tax equity deal highlights the by 2025, reaching 100 percent by 2030. than today to meet the growing sus- appeal of our wind-energy growth As Vestas is committed to leading the tainability expectations of our cus- strategy among investors. The com- transition to a world entirely powered tomers, partners, investors, and em- bination of high-quality projects like by sustainable energy, it will not use ployees. Our commitment to become Glen Ullin and South Peak, respected carbon offsets but only deliver CO2 re- carbon-neutral is the right thing to counterparties, the latest technolo- ductions through its own actions. Tak- do for all of us. Together, we will not gy, high-quality wind resources, and ing the first steps this year, the com- just make products that build a more our development experience and pany will be transitioning to electric sustainable planet, but we will do so relationships have led to success in vehicles for its company cars, will start in the most sustainable way possible.” the tax equity market. We plan to replacing its global service vehicle “Becoming carbon-neutral in our carry this winning formula forward fleet with renewable fueled vehicles, own operations and reducing CO2 on future projects,” said Allete Clean and will be exploring further steps to emissions in our supply chain is the Energy President Allan S. Rudeck Jr. reduce heating- and transport-related next phase of our journey to ensure “Transactions such as Great American CO2 emissions from its operations. a more sustainable planet for future West Wind help build the low-carbon The factories and offices have been generations — which is our purpose economy of the future. The clean-en- powered by 100 percent renewable as a company and as individuals,” said ergy projects they support also bring electricity since 2013. Lisa Malmquist Ekstrand, Vestas’ head immediate and substantial economic After installing more than 108 of Sustainability. “Going beyond our benefits to the areas where they oper- GW of clean energy — enough wind promise to continue developing en- ate and the customers they serve.” energy to displace 167 million metric ergy solutions that reduce CO2 emis- Glen Ullin Energy Center is a 106- tons of CO2 every year, equivalent to sions, we are now making sustainabil- MW wind facility about 40 miles west burning 70 million metric tons of coal ity part of everything we do.” of Bismarck in Morton and Mercer every year — Vestas’ 25,000 employees These commitments are shaped counties that delivers power to Xcel are committed to developing compet- based on recommendations from the Energy customers in the Upper Mid- itive sustainable energy solutions to Science Based Target initiative (SBTi), west through a 20-year power sales meet the world’s growing electricity an initiative led by the Carbon Disclo- agreement. It will employ about 10 demand. However, Vestas’ aspiration sure Project, the United Nations Global people during operation and provide to be the global leader in sustainable Compact, the World Resources Insti- property tax and other business ben- energy solutions means going beyond tute, and the WWF. It advises and as- efits to area communities and lease delivering sustainable solutions — it sists companies in defining a pathway payments to landowners. means making sustainability part of to future-proof growth and driving the Allete Clean Energy’s 80-MW everything we do and taking full re- transition to a carbon-free future. Ves- South Peak wind site in Montana will sponsibility for the company’s environ- tas joins at least 730 other leading com- sell power to NorthWestern Energy mental footprint. panies who have already committed to through a 15-year power sales agree- Therefore, Vestas does not believe reduce their greenhouse gas emissions ment. JPM Capital Corporation will reducing CO2 emissions in its oper- under the umbrella of the SBTi. purchase additional Class A passive ations is enough. Vestas is also com- membership interests when South mitting to reduce the CO2 emissions MORE INFO www.vestas.com Peak begins commercial operations.

windsystemsmag.com 9 DIRECTION THE FUTURE OF WIND

nication’s team in 2015 as the director of Digital & Public Affairs. Prior to NOIA, Williams worked for the trade consulting firm, International Devel- opment Systems, and the multination- al engineering and construction firm, Fluor Corporation. Williams earned his B.A. from the University of South Carolina and his Masters of Public Pol- icy (MPP) from American University.

MORE INFO www.noia.org

ICUEE names new 2021 chairman, vice chairwoman ICUEE – The Demo Expo recently an- Allete Clean Energy’s wind developments. Glen Ullin Energy Center is about 40 miles west of Bismarck, Montana. (Courtesy: Allete Clean Energy) nounced Dave Hughes, vice president of global sales for McElroy Manufac- Allete Clean Energy acquires, de- the NOIA team and congratulate Jus- turing, Inc., has been named 2021 velops, and operates clean and renew- tin on his expanded role,” said NOIA show chairman. He will be leading able energy projects. Allete Clean President Erik Milito. “Their experienc- the ICUEE management committee, a Energy currently owns and operates, es will enable them to hit the ground volunteer group of utility construction in five states, approximately 661 MW running in their respective roles. I am industry executives for overall show of nameplate capacity wind-energy excited for them to strengthen our planning. generation contracted under PSAs of voice and brand and help NOIA reach ICUEE, or the International Con- various durations. Allete Clean Ener- our strategic objectives.” struction and Utility Equipment Expo- gy also engages in the development England spent nearly seven years as sition, is the largest of its kind, known of wind-energy facilities to operate a staffer for U.S. Rep. Pete Olson (Tex- for the invaluable and numerous inter- under long-term PSAs or for sale to as-22), most recently as Olson’s Dep- active product demonstrations that others upon completion, with nearly uty Chief of Staff. Among his broad take place over the three-day show. 400 MW of projects scheduled to come responsibilities, England oversaw Ol- The biennial show last took place in online in 2020. son’s policy team for the House Energy 2019 and is set to reopen September & Commerce Committee and helped 28-30, 2021. MORE INFO www.allete.com strengthen the energy and environment portfolio. Before joining Olson’s staff, England was an Energy Policy NOIA announces Analyst for Washington Analysis, LLC. England is a graduate of the George new staff Washington University. changes Parkins brings strong event and meetings experience to NOIA. Past The National Ocean Industries Asso- stops include the District of Columbia ciation (NOIA) recently hired Richard Bar and, most recently, the American England and Ashley Parkins. England Petroleum Institute (API). Parkins’ ex- is the new NOIA vice president of perience includes planning and exe- Government Affairs, while Parkins is cuting dozens of meetings and events joining NOIA as the director of Meet- every year, ranging from intimate ings and Events. In addition, Justin events to large-scale, multi-day con- Williams has been promoted to vice ferences and receptions. Parkins is a president of Communications. graduate of the Georgia State Universi- “I am very pleased to welcome Rich ty J. Mack Robinson College of Business. and Ashley as the newest members of Williams joined the NOIA commu- Dave Hughes

10 FEBRUARY 2020 “AEM is more than pleased to have ] Laura Ness Owens, VP Marketing, ] Kevin Smith, president, Ham- Dave on board as the new chair for Doosan Bobcat. merhead. ICUEE 2021,” said ICUEE Show Director ] Bob Pettit, CEO, HAWE Hydrau - ] Grant Williams, marketing cam- John Rozum. “His expertise and partic- lics. paign manager, Altec Industries Inc. ipation will be incredibly valuable to ] Mike Popovich, VP Sales & Mar- ICUEE is the leading event for util- our team as we continue to work to- keting – Excavators, Vacall/Gradall ity professionals and construction ward our goals for 2021. We know that Industries Inc. contractors seeking comprehensive Dave and the rest of our management ] Jim Rauckman, managing mem- insights into the latest industry tech- committee all have a great vision of ber, Rauckman Utility Products. nologies, innovations, and trends. what ICUEE can and will be, and we ] Mark Regan, director of Sales, look forward to announcing some ex- NA, Versalift. MORE INFO www.icuee.com citing changes in the coming year.” “I am extremely pleased to ac - cept this position for the 2021 show,” Hughes said. “I know that everyone on the committee is dedicated to best serving industry professionals by providing an interactive and valuable experience at ICUEE.” 3 Gauge Control Box • 4500 psig Nitrogen Bottle • 10’ Service Hose Hughes lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 30’ High Pressure Hose • Nylon Hanging System and has served in many capacities at McElroy since joining in 2001. He is also the president and COO of South- ern Specialties (SSC) based in Tulsa. Hughes is returning to the ICUEE management committee as he served as the 2019 vice chairman. He is also active in Young Presi- dent’s Organization (YPO) and has served his Tulsa Chapter in all of its major offices, including chairman. Serving as vice chairwoman of the ICUEE 2021 Management Committee is Julie Fuller, vice president of engineering, marketing, and purchasing for Tadano Mantis Corporation. The full roster of the ICUEE 2020 Management Committee includes: ] Chris Brahler, president and CEO, TT Technologies Inc. ] Joe Caywood, director of Mar- keting & Product Management, Terex Safe. Quick. Easy. Corporation. ] Andrew Christopher, director, The CvI WindKit efficiently Corporate Business Division, John interfaces with, supplies and controls Deere Construction & Forestry. high-pressure nitrogen gas to today’s Wind ] Mark Core, executive vice presi- Turbine Generators. Save time, money and increase the dent & CMO, Vermeer Corporation. safety of your workforce with CvI’s WindKit. Check out the entire ] Bruce Farrar, director - Industrial CvI WindFarm Nitrogen Suite online where we offer products to OEM Sales & Support, Cummins. generate, boost, fill, store and deliver nitrogen.cvintl.com ] Alessandro Ferrari, VP Sales, Prinoth. ] Jim Glazer, president, Elliott Equipment Company. ] Brian Metcalf, CEO, Ring-O-Matic. 20680 Carmen Loop Suite #101 Bend, OR 97702 Tel: (310) 328-8550 Fax: (541) 550-2284 Toll Free: (866) 330-4382 www.cvintl.com ] Sam Miceli, VP and GM, Vactor.

windsystemsmag.com 11 Windkit_half_pg_island_ad_fnl.indd 1 1/15/20 1:49 PM IN FOCUS

TURBINE MAINTENANCE  O&M OPERATIONS

IMPROVING THE SERVICE LIFE OF ROTATING EQUIPMENT

Vibration, high mechanical loads, contamination and moisture are all threats to bearing and gear service life in wind turbines. (Courtesy: SKF USA)

12 FEBRUARY 2020 Technicians can prolong rotating equipment life in wind-turbine operations through proper bearings selection and installation, appropriate maintenance practices, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

By KUSH SODHA

ind turbines are typically designed to support a 20-year life cycle. Components are often subjected to extreme operating and climate conditions that can affect reliability, productivity, and, ultimate- ly, service life. However, when properly maintained, they can continue to operate well beyond their Wexpected lifespan. Operators are continually looking for new ways to help extend the service life of bearings in wind turbines. This article explores how technicians can prolong rotating equipment life in wind-turbine operations through proper bearings selection and installation, appropriate maintenance practices, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

SPECIFICATION TO IMPROVE BEARINGS SERVICE LIFE One of the best ways to extend the life cycle of a wind turbine is by ensuring the correct bearings are specified and installed for every application. Each bearing has a unique set of design features and characteristics that often cannot be detected simply by looking or even handling the bearings. The conditions in wind turbines require special bearing features and specifications that generate different and special part numbers. Many bearings are designed specifically for the wind industry. Components in turbines undergo thorough testing before being placed in operation, but parts have historically been evaluated individually instead of evaluated according to how they work with other components in a system. This approach is changing with more comprehensive testing involving all interacting components, and with the use of advanced simulation of conditions to mirror real-world applications. This should go a long way in extending the lifespan of wind turbines. Over time, the final product designation is often

windsystemsmag.com 13 IN FOCUS TURBINE MAINTENANCE

changed through several design and testing iterations. Re- ferring to the product designation marked on each side of the bearing is a good start. Technicians are best suited to consult a bearings engineer to confirm an accurate product selection.

GETTING THE RIGHT ASSEMBLY Once the bearing is selected, correct installation in each application is also important — particularly bearings installed in the gearbox to achieve the right preload. To save on initial costs, OEMs may guide operators to buy single bearings and then machine the spacer themselves. This can pose a challenge since bearings are made with a certain tolerance range that can affect the desired preload. One important consideration for bearings in the gearbox is to ensure they have optimum clearance since preloading generates additional heat and friction. Ideally, bearing replacements should be made in the workshop so technicians can measure and dial-in each component and gauge. Servic- ing wind turbines makes up-tower repair a necessity where space is at a premium. Bearings experts can help define The reliability of equipment is an ongoing concern for wind farm acceptable tolerances and identify steps to be completed in operators — and the dependability of bearings at all points in a wind a workshop so technicians can carry less equipment and turbine is a critical part of the mix. (Courtesy: SKF USA) save time for up-tower repair — while still achieving the desired outcome. ADVANCING STANDARD LUBRICATION REDUCING PREMATURE BEARINGS FAILURES PRACTICES The reliability of equipment is an ongoing concern for wind- Like any mechanical system, wind turbines need proper farm operators — and the dependability of bearings at all lubrication to function optimally. Studies have shown points in a wind turbine is a critical part of the mix. Fatigue that 36 percent of premature bearing damage is due to of bearings may be caused by higher-than-expected stresses improper lubrication. Used grease can harden up in the driven by a variety of factors, including heavy moment loads, bearing. Fresh grease pumped in is competing for space friction, and heat. It may also be caused by diminished ma- with this hardened grease. The new grease might find an terial strength due to environmental factors, including wa- easier way out of the bearing instead. There are several ter contamination and corrosion, as well as stray electrical methods to remove this used grease and replenish with currents. There are several ways to help mitigate the risk fresh grease. A properly designed and executed lubrica- of early bearing failure. tion program helps prevent lubrication-related damage To prevent the early onset of cracks due to potential and supports optimum bearings performance and service chemical attack on steel bearings, SKF recommends using life. Vibration, high mechanical loads, contamination, and special surface treatments like black oxide. When applied moisture are all threats to lubricant life in bearings and to bearings rings and rollers, black oxide coating has also gears. High temperatures and speeds inside the generator been shown to reduce other damage mechanisms, such as require specially formulated lubricants and an efficient corrosion, smearing, and adhesive wear. automatic lubrication system. Proper lubrication management and regular mainte- There are some common misconceptions when it comes nance can help prevent surface distress, like micropitting to proper lubrication practices — particularly as it relates to and smearing damages. Correct sealing design to maintain both quantity and frequency. Over-greasing or under-greas- appropriate levels of available lubricant help to mitigate lu- ing, sporadic or ill-timed lubrication intervals, as well as brication starvation. the risk of introducing contaminants, makes manual lu- Another example is electrical damage in wind-turbine brication less desirable. Up-tower lubrication points may be generators, which is the cause of 70 to 80 percent of bearings difficult to reach or inaccessible — further contributing to failure. Depending on the conditions, there are a variety of manual lubrication being more challenging and dangerous. insulation methods to reinforce the bearing’s performance. Automatic lubrication systems can provide a quick re- These include specialized protective surface treatments and turn on investment by increasing turbine system availabil- coatings such as aluminum oxide INSOCOAT® coated bear- ity, extending maintenance intervals, and service life of ma- ings and hybrid bearings integrating extremely hard and jor components. Additional savings can be achieved through durable ceramic rolling elements. proper lubricant handling and consumption.

14 FEBRUARY 2020 One of the important considerations for bearings in the gearbox is to ensure they have enough clearance since preloading generates additional heat and friction. (Courtesy: SKF USA)

A SAFER, SMARTER SOLUTION FOR INSPECTIONS establish baselines. Operators can also collectively monitor Technicians often ask how to predict the remaining life of a all the turbines on a wind farm and establish trend analyses bearing during routine manual inspections, as well as what to make future predictive maintenance decisions. wear characteristics to look for in components surrounding Having the ability to cross-functionally compare factors the bearing. There is a range of issues to look for in bearings, such as vibration, temperature, and oil analysis allows op- including pitting, denting, false brinelling, and thermal erators to get an overall snapshot of machine health. These cracking. However, these characteristics are not always vis- analytics can deliver actionable information for quick and ible without specialized equipment. Due to the equipment strategic decision-making. Connecting, collecting, and cor- required and lack of access, regularly scheduled manual relating data provides a new way for people to interface with inspections do not always provide an accurate assessment machines to increase efficiency and productivity. of bearing health. Having the ability to collect vibration reports and tem- THE VALUE OF PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE perature readings through condition monitoring helps Optimizing machine uptime is key to increasing energy out- identify the onset of bearing damage. Enabling operators put while reducing life-cycle costs. Predictive maintenance to monitor and track deteriorating component conditions in (PdM) is a strategic approach to monitoring machine health real time allows maintenance decisions to be made based on by using connected devices to collect data on a variety of actual machine conditions, rather than arbitrary inspection assets. Data is then aggregated and analyzed to deliver valu- schedules. This may also permit maintenance intervals to be able, actionable insights. extended while consolidating risky, costly, manual activities. Implementing a PdM program with condition monitoring enables the detection of faults before they progress to MONITORING ASSETS TO PREVENT FAILURES failure. The result is optimized bearing service life over the As much as possible, bearing replacements are done up-tow- long term, more turbine uptime, and reduced man-power. Large bearing replacements cannot be done up-tower and er costs — all combining to help make wind farms more require a workshop. Workshop repairs for wind turbines profitable. Optimizing the existing bearings selection and can be as much as $250,000. Maximizing productivity in- installation, maintenance practices, and condition monitor- volves more than just conducting routine maintenance — it ing can help unlock the value of predictive maintenance to requires using condition monitoring tools, such as smart a wind farm. sensors connected to the cloud, to help service technicians predict equipment issues promptly before they require ABOUT THE AUTHOR up-tower or workshop repair. Kush Sodha is the wind energy sales engineer for SKF USA, Inc. Advancements in condition monitoring allow companies in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. For more information, go to www. to track bearing vibrations, temperature, and other data to SKFUSA.com.

windsystemsmag.com 15 IN FOCUS O&M OPERATIONS

BUILDING AN AMERICAN CTV SUPPLY CHAIN

CTV (Seacat Reliance) pushes on to a turbine. (Courtesy: Seacat Services)

16 FEBRUARY 2020 In order to properly maintain the operations of offshore turbines in the U.S., a full modern fleet of crew transfer vessels will be paramount.

By ANDY PAGE

t’s no secret that, to build an offshore wind industry, you of technical performance, which is essential to keep vessels first need to build boats. U.S. offshore wind is still nascent, on the water and projects on track, the Chartwell 24 design but, with considerable state-driven ambitions and a na- benefits from a tank-tested hull form that is proven to han- tional strategy in place, the Department of Energy found dle challenging sea states and built-in redundancy in its Ithat the U.S. could install a total of 22,000 MW of offshore propulsion systems to minimize any potential downtime. wind projects by 2030. Similar attributes are shared by the other CTV designs Bringing about this huge increase in capacity will not that are expected to see widespread adoption in U.S. waters. just depend on the availability of specialist jack-ups, SOVs, These will largely follow the principle that the vessels that and large installation vessels, it will also require a full mod- have proven most effective in European operation — i.e. the ern fleet of crew transfer vessels (CTVs), which are essential 22- and 24-meter catamaran — will also most effectively for transporting technicians and equipment safely to the meet U.S. needs, with the exception of some market-specific turbines. adaptations. In turn, ensuring a steady supply of specialist Jones Act These adaptations include hull forms that have been compliant CTVs — while capitalizing on the proven attri- modified to meet the requirements of legislation protect- butes that characterize the most successful vessel designs ing the migration route of the right whale off the U.S. East in the global offshore wind market — requires ongoing in- Coast and propulsion configurations optimized to meet EPA vestment in a robust domestic supply chain and significant Tier 4 emissions standards. Chartwell recently announced international cooperation. U.S. shipyards and vessel operators have an opportunity to gain a first-mover advantage by identifying the vessel de-  The growing trend of proven vessel signs that will both meet the standards expected by international offshore wind farms and fulfill the unique demands designs that are tailored for the U.S. of operation off the East Coast. market highlights the benefits to be Thus far, this has manifested itself in a number of cross-Atlantic consultancy agreements between vessel op- gained from building knowledge transfer erators in the U.S. and Europe, alongside more substantial arrangements that will see European operators — for the between global OESV markets into best time being — effectively manage the operations of CTV fleets built and owned by American firms. practice going forward.  It has also, excitingly, led to the first vessel orders being placed with U.S. shipyards. Blount Boats claimed the mile- a new deal with U.S. companies, Atlantic Wind Transfers stone of building the first U.S.-flagged CTV back in 2015 with and Blount Boats, for a pair of vessels meeting these spec- Atlantic Pioneer, but now the expected demand for vessels ifications, a Chartwell 24 variant modified specifically to has become increasingly clear, the building of the first full perform optimally in rough Atlantic conditions while com- batch of American offshore wind workboats is starting at plying with local regulations. shipyards on the East Coast. MAINTAINING VESSEL SUPPLY NEXT-GENERATION VESSEL DESIGNS The “formula” for East Coast CTV support is, by now, be- Significantly, these boats will be a new breed of “next-gen- coming increasingly established — as demonstrated by this eration” CTVs that capitalize on a decade of experience in agreement. The growing trend of proven vessel designs that offshore wind construction and operation. In terms of de- are tailored for the U.S. market highlights the benefits to be sign, this means that they will be optimized to allow ves- gained from building knowledge transfer between global sel operators to meet the core metrics of safety, technical OESV markets into best practice going forward. performance, and availability that are critical to offshore However, vessel design is just one part of the equation; wind support. maintaining vessel supply in order to meet expected de- The Chartwell 24, for instance, has been designed to mand is another. Global experience — and, indeed, U.S. maximize technician safety and comfort with features such experience in the onshore sector — dictates that offshore as a completely step-free foredeck. The role of the modern wind follows “boom and bust” construction cycles. Periods CTV encompasses “crew transfer” and logistical support in of heightened construction are often followed by natural equal measure, so the foredeck is also as large as possible to lulls in activity, and a long-term outlook is required to find accommodate essential supplies and equipment. In terms a balance between putting sufficient numbers of boats into

windsystemsmag.com 17 IN FOCUS O&M OPERATIONS

build to meet demand during the high points, while ensuring that existing fleets are kept busy in quieter periods. In Europe, for example, following a temporary slowdown in new builds a couple of years ago, the most capable 22- and 24-meter CTVs are currently in very high demand, which in some cases has created constraints for project owners. This is naturally a scenario that American vessel operators and the wider supply chain will look to avoid. A slowdown in offshore wind vessel orders and competition from other thriving maritime sectors could encourage U.S. shipyards to look for opportunities elsewhere, so it is important that the industry builds momentum now in order to ensure it is well-placed to meet future demand.

HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING It has been said numerous times before, but, with the significant ambitions of U.S. East Coast states turning into concrete plans, the U.S. offshore wind sector has a clear opportunity to start on the front foot in critical areas such as CTV support. By establishing a robust CTV supply chain and ensuring The Chartwell 24 (currently in build for Seacat Services in the U.K. continued investment in proven, high-quality vessels, the (Courtesy: Chartwell Marine) U.S. market will not only put in place one of the essential building blocks for successful offshore wind development and operation, but also provide a significant boost to ship- ABOUT THE AUTHOR yards and maritime businesses off the East Coast. Andy Page is managing director of Chartwell Marine.

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BRÜEL & KJÆR VIBRO

KEEPING THE TURBINES TURNING

BRÜEL & KJÆR VIBRO FOUNDED 2000 HEADQUARTERS Darmstadt, Germany WEBSITE www.bkvibro.com

BKV is a machine condition monitoring company that provides solutions to the industry to maximize machine uptime while minimizing the life-cycle costs with reduced maintenance. (Courtesy: BKV)

24 FEBRUARY 2020 Brüel & Kjær Vibro is taking a lead role in wind-turbine condition monitoring.

By KENNETH CARTER  Wind Systems editor

ith more than 550 GW of wind power installed CONDITION MONITORING SOLUTIONS world-wide, this renewable energy source is ARE NOT EQUAL finding its way into all segments of society. Not BKV, headquartered in Darmstadt, Germany, with the wind just to our homes but also to industry, hospitals, division based in Denmark, has been providing condition Wnursing homes, fire stations, and schools. monitoring solutions to the wind industry for 20 years. What happens if wind turbines stand still because of During that time, there have been more than 25,000 BKV mechanical problems? Simple, no energy is produced. This DDAU data acquisition systems sold world-wide, with up not only affects the profitability of the owners and operators to 12,000 of these being remotely monitored as a service, of these assets, but this shortage of energy may have to be according to Klostermeier. imported from a polluting thermal power plant to compen- “In addition to successfully providing value to so many sate, or worse yet, someone will be left without power. owners and operators, this vast customer base also provid- This is where Brüel & Kjær Vibro (BKV) steps in. ed experience that enabled us to fine-tune our condition “Simply put, our dedicated mission in life is to keep the monitoring solution to what we’re offering to our customers wind turbines turning,” said Christian Klostermeier, head today,” he said. “Very few in the industry dispute the merits of the BKV Windpower Business Unit. “Not only these ma- of machine condition monitoring and the important role chines, but also steam turbines, gas turbines, hydro tur- it plays in the predictive maintenance strategy, but what bines, compressors, pumps, motors, generators, and many many fail to understand is that there is a big difference other critical and balance-of-plant machines in every walk in what system suppliers offer. The big value difference is of life. This is our only business.” largely based on experience.” BKV’s condition monitoring experience goes back more HEALTHY INSIGHTS than 70 years ago, but enormous strides have been made BKV is a machine condition monitoring company that within the last two decades while monitoring in the wind provides solutions to the industry to maximize machine power industry, according to Klostermeier. uptime while minimizing the life-cycle costs with reduced “Early and reliable detection of potential failure modes maintenance. One of the areas of its strategic focus is on is one of the most important hallmarks of an effective con- the renewable energy market with a special emphasis on dition monitoring solution, and this is an area where we wind power. did a lot of research on, combined with our experience,” he “We help our customers reduce operational and main- said. “An example of this is a series of early fault detection tenance costs by providing early insight into the health of descriptors we have developed over the years based on sta- individual wind turbine components,” Klostermeier said. tistical analysis of time waveforms. As a result of this, for “This enables them to replace only a single bearing or gear, some rolling element bearing faults, we can detect the onset for example, instead of replacing the entire gearbox that of a fault two years before it has to be replaced.” failed catastrophically because it was not properly moni- Another area where BKV puts a lot of resources is its tored. Unplanned maintenance is every owner and opera- web-based monitoring platform, VibroSuite, according to tor’s worst fear, but this can be avoided by implementing Klostermeier. It enables advanced diagnostics to be done on cost-effective, planned maintenance through an effective the time waveform data for the individual wind turbine and condition monitoring solution.” drive-train components, as well as used for turbine perfor- Renewable energy profitability is closely tied to how ef- mance comparison through fleet monitoring. fectively asset health is managed. For wind turbines, there “We also give a lot of attention to the user’s needs with re- are no additional operational costs like those found in ther- spect to flexibility and control from the customer’s side,” he mal power stations, such as for feedstock purchase or water said. “We accommodate their expertise and combine it with and air pollution treatment. ours to provide the optimal solution for the application.” Health management is so important to the wind industry, that basically every offshore wind turbine today is de- SERVICE MINDED TO THE CUSTOMER livered with a condition monitoring system because of the AND THE INDUSTRY high maintenance costs associated with their remoteness, BKV has four surveillance and diagnostics service centers according to Klostermeier. Land-based wind turbines are in Houston, Texas; Nærum, Denmark; and Beijing and now following that lead, especially as their production ca- Shanghai in China. Thousands of wind turbines the world pacity increases. Health insight obviously plays a critical over have been monitored by these service centers for many role for these assets, both offshore and onshore, but how years. BKV’s renowned monitoring and diagnostic reports dependent is it on the type of condition monitoring solution don’t just provide data, but they also include a call-for-main- offered? tenance action with a specified timeline, according to Klos-

windsystemsmag.com 25 PROFILE BRÜEL & KJÆR VIBRO

termeier. The diagnosticians and analysts who do the mon- run in order to establish that baseline. itoring and diagnostics, most of whom are Category III or “The beauty of BKV’s services is that it often detects prob- Category IV certified for vibration analysis, are recognized lems that are overlooked by visual inspections,” he said. for their expertise. Sometimes sensor data will indicate specific faults and Service is not just limited to diagnostics. When a cus- when the company investigates with a borescope, it discov- tomer approaches BKV, Klostermeier said the first steps in ers that a small chip is missing on the ball of a bearing or working together are developing a customized monitoring a tooth may have a slight crack, according to Klostermeier. strategy for their specific needs. “I think these are very proud moments,” he said. “Espe- “It usually starts out with a standard model, but then we cially for our diagnostic guys to be able to say, ‘Hey, we were spot on again,’ and proves that we have the right tools in place.” Service is not limited to the customer either. The experts at BKV also have been active in writing and developing ISO and IEC standards for condition monitoring of wind turbines, according to Klostermeier, as part of their contribution to the entire industry. They are also active in presenting papers at conferences, writing case studies, and organizing webinars. “We have a collaboration with the Mobius Institute, which certifies training for diagnostic engineers,” he said. “And we cooperate a lot with various international institutions and A BKV diagnostic data acquisition unit. (Courtesy: BKV) universities. We feel it is important to share our expertise to help make for a better world, not only for our customers, but also for their customers and stakeholders.”

EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY Over the years, BKV has accumulated a vast database of monitoring data that includes fault data on almost every imaginable potential failure mode. This database fits very well into arti- ficial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) development, according VibroSuite enables advanced diagnostics to be done on the time waveform data for the to Klostermeier. individual wind turbine and drive-train components, as well as used for turbine performance “We have this huge treasure trove comparison through fleet monitoring. (Courtesy: BKV) of data, and what we are working on at the moment is automating our di- would develop a customized strategy on how we monitor agnostic systems, so that the algorithms can automatically these turbines,” he said. “That starts with us going onsite, detect faults without human intervention,” he said. “For us, inspecting the turbines, and looking for the best place for the future will be the integration of ML and AI algorithms. the sensors. We know from the setup how many sensors that We’re deep into development in this area, and we already we need. And once we have placed the sensors and have com- have prototypes in place that are currently being tested missioned all the sensors in the set up, we would run it for against live data we get from the turbines. It is something two to four weeks to learn the system. The system needs to I’m really pumped about in relation to what the team is learn what is the baseline condition of the turbine or what currently developing.” is considered a healthy stage of the turbine.” Looking toward the future and looking back at what has Often, as soon as the system is switched on, it immedi- already been accomplished, Klostermeier says he is confi- ately detects faults, according to Klostermeier, so a customer dent that BKV is best positioned in the industry to ensure is advised to repair any faults picked up during that initial the turbines keep turning.

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Chris Hardy Director of Sales  Cv International “Our products just make sense for this sector. One of the reasons why we know it makes sense is because of how many customers continue to come to us for their high-pressure nitrogen needs.”

] What is your role with Cv International? bon-fiber cylinder out of the Safety Fill Station and carry it I’m the director of Sales. My position involves interacting up into the nacelle of the wind turbine where you can use directly with customers, working with our team here at Cv it for servicing accumulators and other high-pressure nitro- International on advancing the technology of our current gen needs. The Wind Kit is lightweight and ergonomically products, and working with our engineering department designed with the maintenance provider in mind. Use of the on new innovative products. I work with great companies Wind Kit greatly cuts down on injuries and maintenance such as Avangrid, Vestas, EDPR, and E.On to name a few. servicing time.

] What is the Wind Farm Nitrogen Service Suite? ] Why is this important for wind? The Wind Farm Nitrogen Service Suite is basically the entire The way techs used to perform this service was with big high-pressure nitrogen servicing package — soup to nuts. steel cylinders that were roughly five feet tall and weighed From high pressure nitrogen generation or nitrogen storage about 250 pounds — obviously heavier than one person to our high-pressure nitrogen Wind Kit point-of-use servic- should typically lift. ing equipment. They used to have to take those up into the nacelle and The majority of land-based wind farms will order their maneuver them around to fill the accumulators in order high-pressure nitrogen in bulk and have it delivered to to service the turbines, which is not a very safe thing to their wind farm. Cv International will supply them with be doing. a nitrogen booster, which will pull the nitrogen out of Our Wind Kits are lightweight and ergonomic — they’re the cylinders, utilizing almost all of the nitrogen that’s in just a lot easier for these techs to handle. those high-pressure storage cylinders. If they didn’t have Our products help with reducing injuries and also help our booster hooked up, they would end up leaving a good with time spent on servicing the accumulators. amount of nitrogen in the rented cylinders once the cylinders equalized. That would unfortunately, over time, be- ] What else makes your products unique to wind? come a substantial amount of wasted money. I think our product’s inherent safety features, ease-of-use, The next piece is the Safety Fill Station. The Safety Fill and time saving abilities in helping to complete these spe- Station is designed to help you safely fill our high-pressure cific tasks separates Cv International from the competition nitrogen Wind Kits; you slide our lightweight carbon fi- and helps make these products unique in this industry. ber cylinder in there; hook it up, close it, and turn on the These products are specifically built for this type of work, booster. The booster pulls out the nitrogen from the storage and our equipment is designed to last for years. We stand tanks and fills it to 4,500 psi. Having the Safety Fill Station behind our warranty. definitely gives you peace of mind when dealing with such high pressures. ] As the wind industry has evolved, how has Cv Interna- At that point, you take the Wind Kits’ lightweight car- tional evolved with it?

28 FEBRUARY 2020 The Wind Kit is lightweight and ergonomically designed with the maintenance provider in mind. (Courtesy: Cv International)

It’s definitely becoming a bigger part of our program. We be a big part of high-pressure nitrogen generation and ser- continue to see more and more interest all the time. vicing in this sector. You will have to ship or fly everything Wind-farm-maintaining companies continue to come out to the offshore turbines. This will especially be an area to us to supply them with our high-pressure nitrogen sys- where our products really make sense. tems. We are the standard in this industry when it comes I especially see nitrogen generation as something that to high-pressure nitrogen servicing equipment. We have a CvI will play a big part in. We have been supplying nitrogen whole bank of engineers here to help with whatever chal- generation for the U.S. military for over 30 years. We’re on lenges may come up. military bases all around the world with our stationary and At CvI, our tagline is, “Global challenges, innovative mobile nitrogen generation. This is something that is going solutions”; that’s who we are and what we do. We believe to be needed for this growing sector. CvI can help wind-farm that as industries evolve, we can evolve with them. We have maintainers to save money by removing the logistical night- that ability. We’ve done it before, and we will continue to mare of delivering high-pressure nitrogen to these offshore do it. We see things on the horizon like the offshore wind sites while also trimming man hours and improving safety. farms that have come to the coasts of America. We are al- For us, our products just make sense for this sector. One ready having conversations here at CvI on what we can do of the reasons why we know it makes sense is because of how differently to help mitigate the challenges associated with many customers continue to come to us for their high-pres- offshore farms. We’re open and willing to work with people sure nitrogen needs. in this industry to help them overcome their challenges. We recently supplied Avangrid with our serving equipment at nearly every one of their sites. By doing a group buy ] How do you work with a customer when they come to such as that, we were able to provide them with a discount you with a challenge? on the equipment, which saved them thousands of dollars. When a customer comes to us, we download whatever infor- The group buy is a direction where we see a lot of our cus- mation they have, and we take it to our team to see how we tomers heading. can best help with whatever challenge they may be facing. Whether it is calls from Vestas, Siemens, EDPR, Avan- grid, or companies operating in Canada, we stand at the ] Where do you see the growth of wind in the next ready to help them get exactly what they need in this area decade, and how do you see your place in that future? of high-pressure nitrogen servicing. Whether it is land-based wind farms or offshore wind coming to the coasts of America, our Wind Kits will continue to MORE INFO www.cvintl.com

windsystemsmag.com 29 NEWS ABOUT INNOVATION, MAINTENANCE, TAILWINDS CONSTRUCTION AND MANUFACTURING

Skyline Renewables is bringing together significant expertise in renewables project acquisition, development, and operation. (Courtesy: Greenbyte)

gets 3 GW of wind and solar assets Greenbyte’s innovative asset man- ]]INNOVATION across North America. agement software will enable Skyline The North American renewable to ensure productivity across this Greenbyte Energy energy market offers attractive invest- growing portfolio, adding value for ment opportunities for Independent its investors. Greenbyte Energy Cloud’s Cloud supports Power Producers (IPPs) that are able user-friendly dashboards will give Sky- Skyline Renewables to take a sophisticated approach to line full visibility of asset performance, improving asset management of large enabling swift identification of emerg- U.S. independent renewable energy wind and solar portfolios. ing issues and boosting transparency company Skyline Renewables has se- Skyline Renewables, backed by and trust with third-party operations lected Greenbyte’s Energy Cloud to Ardian Infrastructure Partners and and maintenance (O&M) teams. monitor and maximize the perfor- Transatlantic Power Holdings, is With Skyline’s current portfolio mance of its growing portfolio. bringing together significant exper- containing technologies from three With its ability to pull data from tise in renewables project acquisition, different wind-turbine manufactur- technologically and geographically development, and operation. Since its ers, the company is seeking to further diverse sources, the cloud-based asset inception in 2018, Skyline has rapidly diversify its asset base by expanding management and monitoring plat- expanded its portfolio of assets under into the solar market. Greenbyte Ener- form will effectively support Skyline’s management from zero to more than gy Cloud’s ability to gather data from growth ambitions as the business tar- 800 MW. multiple technology sources will of-

30 FEBRUARY 2020 fer Skyline flexibility when acquiring, ]]INNOVATION wind generators, and heat exchang- developing, and optimizing future ers are exposed to pollution-related renewable energy assets. VpCI technology corrosion and extreme environmen- Furthermore, the platform will tal conditions. Additionally, systems continue to evolve over time to incor- helps sustain in coastal environments are exposed porate the latest asset management wind farms to high salt levels, which can lead to and monitoring technology, keeping component corrosion and failure. Skyline ahead of the curve and giving Wind and solar power are fast becom- Corrosion of bolts that hold the company the freedom to maintain ing the renewable energies of choice wind-turbine towers to their concrete best practices as they continue to ex- in countries across the globe. Offshore bases is a common problem at wind pand. and onshore wind energy is emerging farms, especially those in marine en- “Greenbyte’s Energy Cloud not only in and around the seas of the world. vironments. This was the case at a new enables Skyline to work more openly Now engineers are battling the ques- wind farm in Brazil, where the base and effectively with the third-party tion of how to make renewable infra- bolts were corroding due to constant asset operators currently looking af- structure last. Corrosion is a general exposure to the extremely corrosive ter the portfolio, but also to continue problem for these infrastructures, and environment of strong wind and blow- building its own understanding of op- corrosion protection systems are cru- ing sand near the ocean. Clamps inside erational performance trends across cial to maintaining structural integ- individual transformer boxes next to its asset base,” said Patrick Strom, se- rity. Stopping corrosion on solar and the tower bases were also experienc- nior sales manager at Greenbyte. “Af- wind farms has become a major goal ing corrosion. ter opening our Chicago office earlier for energy providers. To protect against future corro- this year, Greenbyte is well-equipped Newly engineered systems are de- sion, the base bolts were cleaned with to support Skyline and other sophisti- signed for up to 30 years of service, Cortec’s VpCI®-418 and coated with cated IPPs as they continue to develop but exposure to environmental corro- VpCI®- 368 prior to capping them off their renewable energy portfolios in sion, UV rays, extreme temperatures, with a rubber gasket. Any severe rust North America, while delivering con- and salt corrosion are challenging to on the base bolts or base flange faces sistent returns to their stakeholders component durability and quickly re- was passivated with CorrVerter® Rust and enabling continuous growth.” sult in corrosion at vulnerable points. Converter Primer. “Greenbyte’s Energy Cloud is the Excessive component failures can lead The flange faces will also be platform that best aligns with our to high maintenance costs and under- top-coated with VpCI®-396 and VpCI®- need to centrally view, analyze, and performance of overall energy output. 384 as the customer works through its report on data from a variety of re- Fittings, solar cell support structures, corrosion maintenance plan one wind newable assets with a user-friendly interface that is both intuitive and powerful,” said Brad Kallenberger, vice president at Skyline Renewables. “We’ve been able to quickly familiarize ourselves with many of the capabilities and immediately identify opportunities to optimize the performance of our fleet.” Greenbyte Energy Cloud is used as a renewable energy datahub by asset owners and IPPs in North America and worldwide, covering more than 20 GW of wind, solar, and hydro assets glob- ally. As owner-operators continue to expand their portfolios and become more data-driven, by 2022, Greenbyte expects to have more than 100 GW of assets monitored in Greenbyte Energy Cloud. Due to an extremely corrosive environment, a wind farm in Brazil was having significant corrosion issues which were successfully overcomed by applying VpCI® Technology. (Courtesy: MORE INFO www.greenbyte.com Cortec)

windsystemsmag.com 31 TAILWINDS THE BUSINESS OF WIND

tower at a time. The corroded clamps “We would like to thank Vestas for inside the transformer box were un- their engineering and technical sup- bolted and cleaned with VpCI®-415 and port,” said Mai Trong Thinh, chairman dried. ElectriCorr® VpCI®-239 was ap- of Bac Phuong JSC. “We have been plied before they were bolted back into working closely together to ensure the place. VpCI®-386 was used to protect foundation design is suitable for the external clamp surfaces. marine environment and allows for The same system was used inside building the project using local labor transformer boxes across the wind and equipment. With the FIT deadline farm. VpCI®-396 and EcoShield® 386 in November 2021, it was critical for will also provide protection to com- us to find a partner that would en- ponents inside transformer boxes. sure a successful and timely project The use of VpCI® products in severe completion. We believe that with the environments will greatly extend the technical support and supervision service life of the base bolts and flange from Vestas during installation of the faces used to keep wind towers safely wind turbines, Dong Hai 1 will catch standing. The contract includes the supply and the finish line ahead of time.” supervision of the installation of 13 V150-4.2 The maintenance of cooling sys- MW wind turbines. (Courtesy: Vestas) The project also includes a 10-year tems in wind turbines is also chal- Active Output Management 5000 (AOM lenging due to inaccessibility and tight conditions. The project includes a com- 5000) service agreement, designed to spaces. Cleaning and filling of systems bination of V150-4.2 MW turbines in maximize energy production for the and the recovery of aged coolants are different power ratings with site-spe- project. With a yield-based availabili- difficult and demanding procedures. cific towers placed on reinforced ty guarantee, Vestas will provide the Fortunately, VpCI®-649 BD additive is onshore foundations that are raised customer with long-term business successfully used in small dosages to above sea level. case certainty. Turbine installation is address these issues and enable long The contract includes the supply expected to be completed in the first term corrosion protection. and supervision of the installation of quarter of 2021. 13 V150-4.2 MW wind turbines with MORE INFO www.cortecvci.com 10 turbines delivered in 3.8 MW, and MORE INFO www.vestas.com three turbines delivered in 4.0 MW operating modes to boost energy pro- ]]INNOVATION duction for the site’s specific wind con- ]]INNOVATION ditions. Each turbine will be equipped Vestas develops wind with a full-scale converter, enhancing Vestas to produce the wind park’s compliance with grid solution for 50-MW requirements. zero-waste wind intertidal project “This project demonstrates Vestas’ turbines by 2040 ability to develop wind-energy solu- Using onshore wind technologies to tions that unlock high wind sites in At Vestas, enabling a more sustainable harvest wind resources from the sea, complex and challenging environ- future has always been at the core of Vestas has developed a customized ments,” said Tommaso Rovatti Stu- what the company does. Now, Vestas solution for a 50-MW intertidal proj- dihrad, sales director of Vestas Asia is expanding its sustainability focus ect in Bac Liêu Province, Vietnam, for Pacific. “We are very proud to partner beyond the positive contribution of its the local EPC construction company with Bac Phuong JSC, and we look products to also address waste generat- Bac Phuong JSC. The intertidal project forward to taking part in the region’s ed in the value chain. Vestas is excited site is covered in water at high tide and large potential for intertidal wind to announce its intention to produce some of the turbines will be uncovered projects.” zero-waste wind turbines by 2040, fur- at low tide. “Using locally produced towers and ther underlining our commitment to Working closely with the customer local contractors, this project will cre- make sustainability part of everything to overcome the complex operation of ate jobs and support the Vietnamese we do. planning and executing an intertidal government’s ambition to promote Vestas is the first turbine manufac- project, Vestas will supervise the in- renewable energy and a more sus - turer to commit to zero-waste wind stallation of the turbines in shallow tainable energy mix, for the benefit turbines, meaning running a value waters close to shore in the Mekong of the population,” said William Gail- chain that generates no waste materi- Delta region to exploit the full po- lard, sales vice president of Vestas Asia als. This will be achieved by developing tential of the region’s favorable wind Pacific. and implementing a new waste-man-

32 FEBRUARY 2020 agement strategy, introducing a circu- the turbine lifecycle, aimed at improv- DON’T BE lar economy approach in the different ing the recyclability rate of blades and phases of the value chain: design, pro- nacelles. As a first step, Vestas will be LET DOWN duction, service, and end-of-life. The focusing on improving the recyclabil- strategy will be presented within the ity of all wind turbine blades. Incre- BY AN next two years. mental targets will be introduced to “Establishing such an ambitious increase the recyclability rate of blades ELEVATOR goal for waste reduction is paramount from 44 percent today to 50 percent by to ensuring a better world for future 2025 and to 55 percent by 2030. Several generations,” said Anders Vedel, exec- initiatives designed to address the han- utive vice president of Vestas Power dling of existing blades after decom- Installation and Solutions. “Leading the wind indus- missioning will be set in motion. These preventative maintenance try is not enough to combat the glob- will cover new recycling technologies by IUEC elevator al challenges we face today. If we are optimal for composite waste, such as to spearhead the energy transition, glass fiber recycling and plastic parts mechanics will keep your we must be an example for doing so recovery. Vestas also will be imple- elevators moving SAFELY in the most sustainable way, and this menting a new process around blade and more efficiently. involves making sustainability part of decommissioning, providing support everything we do.” to customers on how to decrease the 27,000 trained “As the world’s largest supplier of amount of waste material being sent craftspersons using wind energy, Vestas has a responsibil- to landfill. more than 119 training ity to eliminate waste across its value centers. chain,” said Tommy Rahbek Nielsen, MORE INFO www.vestas.com Vestas interim Chief Operations Of- ficer. “Wind energy will continue to grow rapidly, therefore the time for a ]]CONSTRUCTION conservative approach is behind us. I am proud to be part of an organiza- Acciona puts its ninth tion that is making sustainability an integral component in all business U.S. wind farm operations”. into service in Texas Industrial waste is a growing threat to environmental ecosystems Acciona recently put the Palmas Altas and to global health. An estimated 11.2 Wind Farm into service. Its second Tex- billion metric tons of solid waste is col- as project and ninth U.S. wind farm, lected every year, posing a serious risk the project represents a total invest- to resource depletion, air pollution, ment of about $200 million and in- and water and soil contamination. Fur- creases Acciona’s generating capacity thermore, solid waste is estimated to in ERCOT to 238 MW. contribute to 5 percent of global green- The wind farm features 46 Nordex house gas emissions. Waste generated technology wind turbines totaling 145 from turbine blades alone is estimated MW capacity. to be around 43 million metric tons Palmas Altas is in Cameron County, accumulated by 2050. about 20 miles north of the San Roman With the global wind energy wind farm that Acciona started up in market set to grow by an average of December 2016. The new facility will 3 percent per year in the coming de- produce about 524 GWh of clean en- cade, Vestas is mitigating its environ- ergy per year, equivalent to the con- mental impact as the market leader by sumption of 43,000 U.S. households. Contact Carisa Barrett at committing to eliminate waste across It will offset the emission of 503,000 [email protected] its value chain.Today, Vestas wind tur- metric tons of CO2 — the equivalent or 253-561-4902 bines are, on average, 85 percent recy- of taking more than 100,000 cars and clable; however, wind turbine blades trucks off the road. We represent more than 450 are currently comprised of non-recy- The Palmas Altas project employed elevator companies ready to clable composite materials. about 170 people at the peak of con- serve your Elevator Lift needs Vestas will consider all aspects of struction. Now completed, a 10-person

windsystemsmag.com 33 TAILWINDS THE BUSINESS OF WIND

agreement with Austin Energy for the majority of the facility’s energy production. The remaining output will be sold at merchant power prices. Gulf Wind is strategically located on the Gulf Coast in Kenedy County, Tex- as, where favorable wind conditions allow the facility to maximize energy production during times of peak demand and peak pricing. For more than 25 years, Gulf Wind is expected to contribute approximately $90 million to the local economy through tax and landowner payments. The Gulf Wind facility sits on 9,600 acres leased from the Kenedy Memori- al Foundation. All money received by Palmas Altas wind farm features 46 Nordex technology wind turbines totaling 145 MW the Foundation supports its charitable capacity. (Courtesy: Acciona) causes to fight poverty, boost educa- tion, and build stronger communities. operations team will staff the wind tion began on December 3, 2019. Gulf Wind began operation in farm over its 25-year lifespan. “Repowering Gulf Wind with 2009. In late August 2017, the facility The wind turbines installed in Pal- brand new turbines made strong eco- withstood Hurricane Harvey, one of mas Altas are Nordex’s AW125/3150 nomic sense due to its unique location the strongest hurricanes to hit the model with a rotor diameter of 125 on the Gulf Coast, where the winds area in recent history. Following the meters, mounted on an 87.5-meter blow strongest at the times of Texas’ storm, when the facility was deemed steel tower (hub height). The energy peak energy demand and pricing,” undamaged and safe to resume opera- produced by the wind farm will be said Mike Garland, president and CEO tions, Gulf Wind returned to supplying sold in the ERCOT-South Texas whole - of Pattern Energy. “Gulf Wind was our much-needed energy to the Texas grid. sale market. first wind-power facility, and technol- Acciona has 1,047 MW of wind pow- ogy has improved rapidly since it first MORE INFO www.patternenergy.com. er capacity in the U.S. and Canada. began operating over a decade ago. By installing the latest technology tur- MORE INFO www.acciona.com bines, we expect the repowered facil- ]]MAINTENANCE ity to have more efficient production, lower operating costs, renewed pro- Study: Fall protection ]]CONSTRUCTION duction tax credits (PTCs), and longer life, which combine to increase the equipment market size Pattern Energy starts long-term value of our fleet.” worth $2.9 B by 2026 “Repowering provides an opportuni- repowering project ty to increase the efficiency, reliability, The global fall protection equipment on Gulf Wind facility and longevity of existing wind farms,” market size is expected to reach $2.9 said José Antonio Miranda, Siemens billion by 2026, according to a new Pattern Energy Group Inc. recently an- Gamesa Renewable Energy, CEO On- study by Polaris Market Research. nounced it has closed financing and shore Americas. “We have a long-stand- The report “Fall Protection Equip- started construction on the repowering partnership with Pattern Energy ment Market Share, Size, Trends, In- ing of its Gulf Wind facility in Kenedy and are excited to bring new life to the dustry Analysis Report By Product County, Texas. Gulf Wind facility.” (Hard Goods, Soft Goods, Rescue Kits, Repowering the Gulf Wind facility The repowering consists of replac- Full Body Harness and Body Belts); By will consist of removing the current ing nacelles, towers, and blades for the Application (Oil & Gas, Construction, wind turbines and replacing them 118 turbines at Gulf Wind with new Transportation, Mining, Telecom, En- with 118 new Siemens Gamesa SWT- Siemens Gamesa 2.3 MW turbines, ergy & Utilities, General Industry); 2.3-108 turbines, which will generate each with 108-meter blades on 80-me- By Regions, Segment Forecast, 2019 – 271 MW of capacity, the equivalent to ter towers. 2026” gives a detailed insight into cur- the annual energy usage of approxi- The Gulf Wind facility has entered rent market dynamics and provides mately 80,000 Texas homes. Construc- into a new 20-year power purchase analysis on future market growth.

34 FEBRUARY 2020 The global demand for fall protection equipment is escalating, with increasing focus on workers safety in construction, mining, energy, and oil and gas industries. They include the use of controls that are preferably designed to protect staff from death and injury. Incident and occupational risk, including falling off overhead platforms or elevated workstations, is expected to contribute to the protection of industry demand. Market growth is driven by a growing awareness of industrial security and stringent government safety reg- (Courtesy: Polaris Market Research) ulations in various industries. One of the main drivers is increasing demand seen to increase the demand for fall initiated in January 2020. for fall protection equipment from protection equipment. This market Bladt Industries and Semco Mari- the construction industry. However, growth can be mainly attributed to time have formed a joint venture for increasing automation is expected to the rapid development of infrastruc- the design and construction of the limit market growth in the end-use in- ture, high investment in new indus- 1,200-MW offshore substation. The dustries. In addition to this, the lack tries, and the rise in construction in offshore substation will consist of a of awareness is expected to hamper residential and commercial buildings topside of 4,700 tons and a 3,000-ton the growth of this market over the in countries such as India, Indonesia, jacket foundation. The project scope forecast period. Increasing stringent Thailand, and China. comprises engineering, procurement, regulations pertaining to safety of Some of the key players in the mar- and construction works, including employees is also expected to bring in ket include 3M, MSA Safety Company, steel structure and jacket foundation new opportunities for the key players SKYLOTEC, Capital Safety, Honeywell by Bladt Industries, as well as design, in this market. Miller, Eurosafe Solutions, ABS Safety, procurement, and installation of elec- It is estimated that the body belts Gravitec System, French Creek Produc- trical equipment, auxiliary systems, segment may surpass consumption of tion, FallTech, and DBI-SALA. The key and inter-array cables by Semco Mari- 53 million units by 2026 in the over- players in this market have adopted time. The offshore substation is sched- all market. These are used primarily the strategy of mergers and acquisi- uled for delivery from Bladt Industries’ together with a full body harness for tions as a part of their strategy in or- site in Denmark in 2024. injury protection. OSHA also recom- der to gain competitive share in the “We are proud that Mayflower Wind mends the use of body belts from ele- global market. has selected Bladt and Semco for this vated platforms. Construction market comprehensive offshore substation segment is anticipated to hold major MORE INFO www.polarismarketresearch.com project on the U.S. East Coast,” said share in the global market till the end Nils Overgaard, chief sales officer of forecast period. In addition to this, with Bladt Industries. “We consider it the mining industry is also expected ]]MANUFACTURING an important recognition of our joint to witness significant growth in the competencies and our strong focus on global market over the forecast period. Semco, Bladt ink HSE during the construction phase. During the forecast period, North We are very much looking forward to America will be followed closely by substation contract the close cooperation with the strong Europe. The market is expected to with Mayflower Wind team behind Mayflower Wind, and we grow enormously due to rapid indus- do hope this will be the first of several trialization in both of these regions. Mayflower Wind Energy LLC has award- projects.” The high demand for fall-protection ed a contract for the fabrication and de- “Semco and Bladt’s strong track re- equipment in the ever-growing energy livery of the Mayflower Wind project’s cord of providing competitive turnkey and utility industry of Latin America offshore substation approximately 40 offshore wind electrical infrastruc- market is expected to register a signif- kilometers south of Nantucket, Massa- ture is a door opener in the market,” icant CAGR during the forecast peri- chusetts, to a joint venture comprised said Carsten Nielsen, senior vice pres- od. In Asia Pacific, due to anticipated of long-standing business partners ident, Renewables, Semco Maritime. growth in the construction industry Bladt Industries and Semco Maritime. “The Mayflower Wind project provides during the forecast period, will be The offshore substation project was a unique opportunity to firmly estab-

windsystemsmag.com 35 TAILWINDS THE BUSINESS OF WIND

The Mayflower Wind project has been chosen by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to supply 804 MW of clean, renewable energy from offshore wind with expected start-up in 2025. (Courtesy: Semco Maritime)

lish our companies as highly expe- launching a safe and reliable offshore ]]MANUFACTURING rienced pioneers in the nascent and wind project to help meet Massachu- promising U.S. offshore wind indus- setts’s greenhouse gas reduction goals,” Vestas receives try. We will build strong relationships said Michael Brown, chief financial with Mayflower Wind’s parent compa- officer, Mayflower Wind Energy LLC. multiple orders nies — Shell and EDP Renewables — as “We look forward to working with from around the globe well as other involved parties. We will Bladt Industries and Semco Maritime — draw on the experience gained, as well companies with a proven track-record ] U.S.: Vestas has received a 162 as the resources and capabilities, that in the industry. Recent changes to U.S. MW order for a project in the U.S. we have built up over the years to put tax law now allow projects that meet Demonstrating Vestas’ product flex- further focus on our offerings to bring qualification standards in 2020 to se- ibility optimizing all site needs, and offshore energy to shore.” cure Federal Investment Tax Credits at including previously purchased PTC The Mayflower Wind project has the 18 percent level. This contract is a components, the full project consists of been chosen by the Commonwealth key step for us to meet these standards a mix of V110-2.0 MW and V136-4.2 MW of Massachusetts to supply 804 MW of and secure tax credits that would ul- wind turbines delivered in various op- clean, renewable energy from offshore timately result in a lower rate for elec- erating modes. The order includes sup- wind with expected start-up in 2025. tricity customers in Massachusetts.” ply and commissioning of the turbines Once in operation, the project will Bladt Industries and Semco Mari- as well as a 10-year service agreement, provide enough electricity to power time will act as equal partners in the designed to ensure optimized perfor- approximately half a million homes new joint venture. mance for the lifetime of the project. in the state and eliminate 1.7 metric Turbine delivery will begin in the sec- tons of CO2 emissions annually. MORE INFO www.bladt.dk ond quarter of 2020 with commission- “Mayflower Wind is focused on www.semcomaritime.com ing scheduled for the third quarter of

36 FEBRUARY 2020 2020. The project and customer are joint investment fund created on a its first V136-4.2 MW order in South undisclosed. parity basis by PJSC Fortum and JSC Korea for the Cheongsong Myeonbong ] U.S.: Vestas has received an order RUSNANO. Located in the Kalmykiya Mt Wind Power project with EPC con- for 149 MW of turbines, consisting of and the Rostov region, the projects tractor Kumho Industrial Co., Ltd. The 12 V110-2.0 MW turbines and 57 V120- will comprise 60 V126-4.2 MW wind 42-MW order consists of 10 V136-4.2 2.2 MW turbines for a wind project turbines. With this fourth order from MW wind turbines at a hub height in the U.S. The order includes supply its framework agreement with RUSNA- of 112 meters as well as a 20-year Ac- and commissioning of the turbines as NO and Fortum to supply wind-energy tive Output Management 4000 (AOM well as a multi-year service agreement, solutions in Russia, Vestas marks anoth- 4000) service agreement, designed to designed to ensure optimized perfor- er key milestone in further strength- maximize uptime and ensure opti- mance for the lifetime of the project. ening the country’s renewable energy mized performance of the project. To Turbine delivery will begin in the first sector. The projects will increase Vestas’ optimize operation in the site’s specif- quarter of 2020 with commissioning footprint in the country to a total ca- ic wind conditions, the turbines will scheduled for the fourth quarter of pacity of almost 600 MW, underlining feature Vestas’ High Wind Operation 2020. The project and customer are the company’s leading position in the (HWO), an intelligent control option undisclosed. market. The contract includes sup- that allows the turbines to continue ] China: Vestas has received a 55 ply, installation and commissioning operating beyond standard cut-out MW order in China that includes of the wind turbines, as well as a 15- wind speeds. The result is improved supply of 25 V120-2.2 MW as well as year Active Output Management (AOM output stability, energy production, a 2-year Active Output Management 5000) service agreement. The projects and reliability, helping the project to 4000 (AOM 4000) service agreement. will feature a VestasOnline® Business deliver the maximum return on in- Deliveries are expected to begin in the SCADA solution to lower turbine down- vestment for the customer. Each tur- second quarter of 2020, while commis- time and optimize the energy output. bine will be equipped with a full-scale sioning is planned for the third quarter Turbine delivery is scheduled for the converter, enhancing the wind park’s in the same year. Customer and project third quarter of 2020, while energy compliance with grid requirements. names are undisclosed at the custom- production is expected to start during The Cheongsong Myeonbong Mt Wind er’s request. the fourth quarter of 2020. Power project is in Cheongsong county, ] Italy: PLT Engineering has placed ] Denmark: Vestas has secured a North Gyeongsang Province. Turbine a 37 MW order for two projects in Italy 36 MW repowering order for the final installation is expected to be complet- that showcase the versatility of Vestas’ phase of the 94 MW Overgaard 1 wind ed in the third quarter of 2021. 2 MW and 4 MW platforms. Both proj- park in Randers Municipality in Den- ects, located in Calabria and Basilicata, mark. The order is derived from the MORE INFO www.vestas.com will feature a mixed site configuration energy-neutral auction in November of both V110–2.0 MW and V136–4.2 MW 2019 in Denmark, and it is placed by wind turbines to optimize energy pro- SE Blue Renewables, a joint venture ]]MANUFACTURING duction. The order includes supply and between the Danish energy company installation of the turbines as well as Norlys and Denmark’s largest pension Siemens Gamesa is an Active Output Management 5000 company, PFA Pension. The firm order (AOM 5000) service agreement for the includes supply, installation, and com- preferred supplier for next 15 years. The energy produced by missioning of 10 V126-3.45 MW tur- large U.S. wind project both wind parks will be commercial- bines delivered in 3.6 MW Power Opti- ized through a PPA contract with PLT mized Mode as well as a 20-year Active Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy Puregreen for the next 12 years. Since Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) was recently named as the preferred installing its first turbine in Italy in service agreement. The order comes turbine supplier for the massive 2,640- 1991, Vestas has led the country’s wind six months after Vestas announced MW Dominion Energy Virginia Off- industry with more than 4.3 GW capac- the first phase of the project. Once com- shore Wind project in the U.S. This is ity installed, being the main contribu- pleted, the repowered wind park will the largest offshore wind power proj- tor to the country’s expansion of wind almost quadruple the current site’s ect in the rapidly increasing U.S. mar- energy with a 40 percent market share. energy production, underlining the ket to date. A long-term service and Turbine delivery is planned for the sec- strong business case in replacing old- maintenance agreement is included ond half of 2020, while commissioning er turbines with newer and more effi- for the site off the coast of Virginia. is expected by the fourth quarter 2020. cient variants. Deliveries are expected The agreement furthermore foresees ] Russia: Vestas has been awarded to begin in the second quarter of 2021, using turbines from Siemens Gamesa’s an order for 252 MW for three wind while commissioning is planned for Direct Drive offshore wind turbine energy projects in Russia from WEDF the fourth quarter of 2021. platform. (Wind Energy Development Fund), a ] South Korea: Vestas has secured The final number of units and tur-

windsystemsmag.com 37 TAILWINDS THE BUSINESS OF WIND

Once online, the Dominion Energy Virginia Offshore Wind project is expected to provide enough clean energy to power 650,000 homes at rated wind speed, avoiding 3.7 million tons per year of carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. (Courtesy: Siemens Gamesa)

bine model remain to be determined. Offshore Business Unit. “Locally, we tion project currently underway with All installations are expected to com- help our customers provide cost-effi- Dominion Energy is a gateway to plete by 2026. The agreement is sub- cient clean energy as well as additional something bigger, and now Virginia is ject to certain conditions including economic benefits.” poised to benefit from the wide-rang- Dominion Energy’s final investment Once online, the project is ex - ing economic benefits the Dominion decision, governmental permitting, pected to provide enough clean en- Energy Virginia Offshore Wind project and other required approvals. ergy to power 650,000 homes at rat- will bring.” “Signing this preferred supplier ed wind speed, avoiding 3.7 million Dominion Energy Virginia Off- agreement with Dominion Energy tons per year of carbon emissions shore Wind expands on knowledge attests to the enormously exciting compared to fossil fuel-based pow- gained though the current two-tur- growth taking place in the U.S. offer generation. bine, 12-MW Coastal Virginia Offshore shore wind industry and across the This is another milestone agree- Wind (CVOW) project. globe,” said Markus Tacke, Siemens ment for the United States as it aims It is the first offshore wind proj- Gamesa CEO. “We’re thrilled to have to add 25 GW of renewable energy by ect to be built in U.S. federal wa - been chosen to support them in their 2030, enough to provide clean, renew- ters and will use Siemens Gamesa’s commitment to reduce greenhouse able energy to approximately 12 mil- 6-MW SWT-6.0-154 wind turbines. gas emissions and to once again do our lion average homes, or 10 percent of CVOW is set to be online in 2020 part in combatting climate change on total U.S. households. within a research lease area adja - a global level.” “We’re confident that offshore cent to site of the 2,640-MW project The agreement comes on the heels wind power is already one of the fast- will be located. of Siemens Gamesa’s recent commit- est-growing, most important contribu- The agreement for Dominion En- ment to the “Business Ambition for tors on which Virginia state agencies ergy Virginia Offshore Wind also 1.5ºC – Our Only Future” pledge, con- can draw to reach their ambitious re- provides for certain early works to tributing toward the fight for a ze- newable energy goals,” said Steve Day- support project development, includ- ro-emissions future. ney, head of Offshore North America ing turbine layouts that will be used “Internationally, every Siemens at Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy. in the Construction and Operations Gamesa Direct Drive offshore wind “Receiving 30 percent of its electricity Plan (COP) submittal to the United turbine we install increases the im- from renewable sources by 2030 is States Department of the Interior’s pact made by the renewable energy fully feasible, and we are eager to lead Bureau of Ocean Energy Management industry in avoiding CO2 emissions the way for the citizens of the Com- in late 2020. from power generation,” said Andreas monwealth. We have always believed Nauen, CEO of the Siemens Gamesa that the Coastal Virginia demonstra- MORE INFO www.siemensgamesa.com

38 FEBRUARY 2020 YOUR SOURCE FOR WIND ENERGY NEWS

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A RENEWABLE FUTURE IS NOW IN REACH

At the end of 2018, the installed wind capacity across the world reached 597 GW, which was an increase of 18 percent compared with 2017. (Courtesy: NES Global Talent)

40 FEBRUARY 2020 As the energy industry evolves, companies and technicians need to be mobile, innovative, technology-focused, and work to ensure knowledge is shared and a competitive advantage is gained.

By DUSTIN HOUSE

ompanies in the renewable energy industry have historically faced cost challenges in creating a sustainable business model, preventing renewable energy sources from challenging traditional oil and gas. CHowever, now the technologies behind harnessing wind and solar energy for low-carbon electric power generation are reducing in cost, boosting the global renewable energy capacity. This means that for the first time in history, a renewable future is within our grasp, bringing with it both a plethora of job opportunities for skilled professionals and growing talent pools for companies seeking to staff their worksites.

RENEWABLE ENERGY INVESTMENT The sustainability of our energy sources is vitally import - ant for our planet, and this is driving many major energy companies to invest in alternative power sources. Several major oil companies, such as Royal Dutch Shell, ExxonMo- bil, BP, and Chevron have all entered into the renewable energy sector and invested in non-fossil fuel businesses. Because of this, energy consumers are seeing utility-scale solar and wind, combined with the battery storage needed

windsystemsmag.com 41 CROSSWINDS THE FUTURE OF WIND

Utility providers are not only seeing falling costs in the technology needed to harness renewable power, but also seeing the installation costs follow suit. (Courtesy: NES Global Talent)

to implement these power sources, becoming increasingly RENEWABLES PLAYING A VITAL ROLE more competitive and attainable. The renewables industry Renewable energy may be becoming more affordable, but is experiencing remarkable advances in cost-competitive- it’s still not able to take on the full weight of providing ness because technologies that were once immature and power to our homes and communities. According to the U.S. hugely expensive are becoming a thing of the past. Energy Information Administration (EIA), in 2017, the av - Between 2009 and 2017, prices dropped by 76 percent for erage annual electricity consumption for a U.S. residential solar panels and by 34 percent for wind turbines, making utility customer was 10,399 kilowatt-hours (kWh), with an them, for the first time, more competitive alternatives to average of 867 kWh per month. Louisiana had the highest fossil fuels and other low-carbon energy sources such as annual electricity consumption at 14,242 kWh per residen- hydropower and nuclear. tial customer, and Hawaii had the lowest at 6,074 kWh per Utility providers are not only seeing falling costs in the residential customer. The criticism has always been that technology needed to harness renewable power, but also renewables can’t meet residents’ electricity demands as seeing the installation costs follow suit, especially when the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always more established technologies of onshore wind and photo- blow. This is where fossil fuels, currently, have a significant voltaic (PV) solar are concerned. Projects that initiated con- advantage. struction at the start of 2019 cost $50 per megawatt-hour, However, there is a crucial role renewables can play which is 10 percent lower than it was this time last year, thanks to battery storage. Battery storage can provide “dis- and solar projects are, on average, 18 percent cheaper at patchable power,” meaning it can be delivered when it’s $57 per MWh. needed, rather than only at the time it’s being generated.

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windsystemsmag.com 43 CROSSWINDS THE FUTURE OF WIND

This missing link would enable the power that’s generated  to be saved and kept for future use, and the good news At the end of 2018, the installed wind is that the prices of batteries are also decreasing. New re- capacity across the world reached 597 search from Bloomberg NEF (BNEF) shows that the cost of lithium-ion batteries has fallen by 35 percent over the GW, which was an increase of 18 percent past year to $187 per MWh, while the cost of offshore wind is almost a quarter (24 percent) lower than this time 12 compared with 2017. Many countries months ago. outside of the traditional energy markets TACKLING INTERMITTENT POWER In the past, renewables have struggled to meet the peak of Europe and North America are driving times of electricity use whereas fossil fuel companies the trend.  thrived with the use of open-cycle gas turbines and gas reciprocating engines. Now, batteries are shaking up the energy industry with their ability to store up to four hours In April 2019, the U.S. renewable energy sector generated of energy to meet peak time demands. Although, while the more electricity than the country’s coal power plants for the current battery technology can handle peak hours, they are first time in history, according to analysis by the Institute still unable to compete with the bulk power function served for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA). This by combined-cycle gas plants. is a trend that’s predicted to continue as time goes on. Not However, when battery storage works in conjunction only is the renewables sector providing price parity, it is also with clean-energy sources such as solar power and wind providing grid performance parity. Grid performance parity power, renewables can compete with gas and coal power, is made possible because PV solar and wind-power providers even without subsidies. Making this even more of a reali- have scaled their operations driven by the improvements in ty is the plummeting costs of battery storage and offshore technology, thus expanding their capacity for power gener- wind farms. ation and driving down installation costs. Offshore wind farms, constructed in bodies of water Additionally, the market announced late last year the where higher wind speeds are available, are larger and world’s largest wind-turbine blade specifically for offshore taller than their onshore counterparts with no physical wind projects. Astonishingly, the wind turbine blade is restrictions such as hills or buildings that could block the more than 300 feet long. With larger blades and a larger wind flow, allowing for more energy collection. Also, off - machine, we will see bigger yields, larger outputs, and shore wind farms have a relatively low impact on the envi- better economies of scale for the same type of technology, ronment. They are not built in shipping lanes, fishing areas, therefore a lower cost per MWh. Thanks to these tech- or in a delicate environment. It is clear that wind power is nological advances and innovation, the costs associated increasing in popularity around the world as the technolo- with the renewables industry have fallen much quicker gy becomes more financially sustainable and global policies than predicted. and targets on climate change are created. At the end of 2018, the installed wind capacity across the BUILDING A RENEWABLES TALENT POOL world reached 597 GW, which was an increase of 18 percent The energy industry is evolving, and the new generation of compared with 2017. Once more, many countries outside renewable energy engineers needs to be mobile, innovative, of the traditional energy markets of Europe and North technology-focused, and work across the organization to America are driving the trend. At the end of 2018, China ensure knowledge is shared and competitive advantage is accounted for roughly 34 percent of global installed wind gained. According to data from the International Energy power capacity, roughly the same as the whole of Europe. Agency (IEA), over the next 20 years, renewable energy will be the fastest-growing energy source in the world, meaning THE RISE OF RENEWABLES there will be many job opportunities for skilled energy pro- Renewable energy now accounts for a third of our global fessionals. NES Global Talent, an award-winning workforce power capacity, according to new data released by the In- solutions specialist, is helping renewable companies build ternational Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and almost the talent pools they need for the future. Using their in- two-thirds of this generation capacity was led by emerging depth understanding of the current and future challenges and developing economies. facing the renewables industry, NES works in partnership They report that Asia accounted for 61 percent of total with its clients, offering a global network of talent and local new renewable energy installations and grew installed re- market knowledge that can deliver complete renewables newables capacity by 11.4 percent, with Africa following workforce solutions. closely behind with a rise of 8.4 percent. But despite this, growth was fastest in Oceania as they observed a 17.7 per- ABOUT THE AUTHOR cent rise in 2018. Dustin House is director — Power at NES Global Talent.

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