COMMUNICATION HUB FOR THE WIND ENERGY INDUSTRY
Specialist Surveying Working at Heights
Law Spotlight on Tyne & Tees
APRIL/MAY 2013 | £5.25
INTRODUCTION
‘Spotlight’ on the Tyne & the Tees Continuing our successful Regular features company/organisation micropage held ‘Spotlight On’ features we We can boast no fewer than 9 separate within our website, so that you can learn again visit the Tyne & Tees features within this edition. Some much more in all sorts of formats. as ‘an area of excellence are planned and can be found in our in the wind energy industry ‘Forthcoming Features’ tab on our These have already become very popular throughout Europe and website – we do however react to editorial as it links the printed magazine in a very beyond’ received, which we believe is important interactive way – a great marketing tool to the industry and create new features to for our decision making readership to The area is becoming more and more suit. find out about products and services important to the wind energy industry. immediately following the reading of an As you will see the depth and breadth Therefore please do not hesitate to let us interesting article. Contact the commercial of the companies and organisations know about any subject area which you department to find out how to get one for who have contributed to this feature do feel is important to the continued progress your company. not disappoint. of the industry and we will endeavour to bring it to the fore. The feature boasts the largest page Click to view more info count so far which stretches over 40 Wind energy industry skills gap pages! – initiative update = Click to view video I year ago we reported that there were 4 Collaboration and the Vessel main areas to focus on if we are to satisfy Co-Operative that need and would include a focused Our industry lead article in this edition approach in the following areas. features the conference held in Great Yarmouth recently organised We have over that period covered... by Offshore Marine Support. As you • Schools – from primary through will find within the article the aim of secondaries to 6th form the conference was to get as many • Schools’ 6th Form /further education – interested parties involved in moving schools/colleges forward, with the objective of serving • Engineering and science graduate the industry’s needs. attraction – universities • Mature experienced individuals from We will continue to follow the co- other relevant energy industries/ operative’s progress in future editions. sources e.g. oil & gas industry/forces
The time has now come to review the situation having gathered all the information and response from the industry and you will find this within the feature.
Magazine and website Duncan McGilvray interaction – QR codes Editor | Wind Energy Network You will have noticed that we changed our pink and green flashes indicating more www.windenergynetwork.co.uk information online in the last edition. QR codes have been substituted which means that you can scan the code with your smart phone and it will direct you to the featured
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 01 WIND ENERGY NETWORK
CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENTS Regular features Amongst some 9 features within this edition we focus on Specialist Surveying, Law and Lubrication & Filtration to name but 3. The cover image was supplied by Capital Safety just to remind us Spotlight on the Tyne & Tees that working environments can be The largest regional feature so far at challenging! more than 40 pages, with a wide range of articles from small companies to Our feature on ‘Working at Heights and multi-nationals as well as organisations, within Confined Spaces’ contains a educational established and membership number of very helpful editorials from groups featured. some of the best experienced in the industry. Skills Gap An update on this initiative which started just over 1 year ago and has featured primary and secondary schools, 6th forms, colleges, universities, companies, both large and small, and the Forces.
Duncan McGilvray Editor | Wind Energy Network
Front cover image: courtesy of Capital Safety
02 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Page 4 Industry lead article – the UK & Ireland vessel Page 78 Offshore Wind: A Guide For Business conference co-operative conference 2013 held recently in – held at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Great Yarmouth Centre (AMRC), Rotherham
Page 8 Your Industry News section starts here Page 80 Andrew Jackson Solicitors heads up our Law feature Page 14 Your regular events calendar and what’s new Page 86 Event feature – EEEGR’s SNS 2013 conference held Page 16 Skills Gap – our Wind Industry Careers initiative at the Norfolk Showground, Norwich update now 1 year on, including more contributions across the 4 target areas Page 88 Working at heights and within confined spaces feature – we hear from the experts Page 20 Business Development section – regular advice from our team of experts Page 94 Event feature – Humber Renewables Awards ceremony held in Hull Page 24 All in a day’s work – Jeff Main, Managing Director of Tyne & Wear Marine Page 96 ‘Distributed wind’ feature – ICE Renewables start by explaining the concept Page 26 Spotlight on the Tyne & Tees– we return to the region to highlight progress Page 100 Event feature – RenewableUK event ‘Future of offshore wind’ held in OrbisCentre, Lowestoft Page 70 Risk management – Risktec, our regular contributors, on Quantitative Risk Assessments, part 2 Page 102 Metmasts feature
Page 72 Feature on Lubrication & Filtration - expert advice Page 108 Substantial feature on Specialist Surveying
p27 p40 p98
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www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 03 INDUSTRY ARTICLE Industry Vessel Co-operative
Cost efficient For the end user, the daily charter rates are kept to a reasonable level as OMS Within the last do not have the overheads of a larger edition the lead organisation. Diversification article highlighted The co-operative has enabled owner/ operators of vessels to diversify their own businesses and work in an industry the importance of sector that still displays growth – i.e. many fishing companies have joined the co- collaboration in the operative to offer their vessels for guard duties. We have a number of fishermen industry. who completely endorse the concept of Offshore Wind which has gone a long way With this in mind we featured the Limited risk to change the mind-set of those who may work of Offshore Marine Support in The co-operative market the vessel and previously have been against it. getting together many companies submit tenders for appropriate jobs, taking and organisations to service the wind a small percentage of the charter rate Currently, there are offices in Gloucester, energy industry by setting up a vessel should the vessel be successful, thus risk Preston and the Isle of Wight and co-operative. to the owner is minimal. The range of vessels available are at various locations vessels, and related equipment, available throughout the UK and Southern Ireland. The first event was held in Gt Yarmouth within the co-operative is vast – from recently and we now report on the survey vessels to jack-up barges. conference – it is also well worth featuring the progress of the co-operative in future editions because of its significance in the wind energy industry.
About the co-operative This co-operative has brought together several small owner/operators with one or two vessels with the aim of presenting a more forceful presence in the Renewables Sector. The co-operative has built up many senior contacts within the industry which enables the smaller operator to gain access to people that they may not have been able to before by joining the co- operative. There is no charge to join.
04 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY ARTICLE
The UK & Image courtesy of Fendercare Marine Ireland vessel co- operative conference 2013
Welcome The Mayor of Gt Yarmouth, Her Worship Councillor Colleen Walker, welcomed all present to Gt Yarmouth and described how important the wind industry has, and will continue to be a very important sector to the success of the area.
Introduction Andy Iannetta, MD of Offshore Marine Support and Chairman for the day, gave a very enthusiastic introduction of what to expect during the conference and invited all to voice any opinions and/or concerns.
He emphasised that it was very early days in the life of the co-operative and everyone involved felt it essential that every base was covered regarding any concerns expressed.
Andy further explained, assisted by video, the reasoning behind the set up and expressed his eagerness to involve all interested parties, including educational establishments, colleges and fishermen/ fishermen’s organisations.
Speakers included... • Sean Matthews (Navitus Bay) – the • Chris Holden – what do RES Offshore Offshore Marine Support ltd Navitus Bay project need from vessel suppliers to provide www.offshoremarinesupport.com • Jules Morgan (KPM-Marine) – safety at a ‘one-stop-shop’ sea and crew habitation • paul Lines – the importance of safety • tim Smith (Fendercare) – support base management systems within the facilities and vessel innovations co-operative • Mark Hart & Alistair Hackett (Ocean • Jimmy Buchan – diversification and Safety) – man overboard & life safety the views of fishermen equipment • Ian Pease (Lowestoft College) – skills & Conclusion training for wind farm support vessels All in all a very worthwhile day and we look • John Hawthorn (Red7Marine) – the forward to following the progress of the vessel fund co-operative through its formative years and beyond.
There were a number of subject areas within the speakers’ presentations which we will be elaborating on in future editions
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 05 INDUSTRY NEWS IT’S ALLYOU! ABOUT Offshore Development Trianel and AREVA Wind finalised further project milestone Logistics Strategic partnerships Collaboration The transport of the 40 nacelles, hubs and “AREVA did an excellent job technically Trianel wind farm Borkum is a (S3) tower sections of the 5 Megawatt as well as logistically” enthused Klaus collaboration of 33 municipal utility (MW) wind energy converters M5000-116 Horstick, CEO of Trianel Windpark companies and the municipal utility started in September 2012. Borkum GmbH & Co KG. company Trianel in Aachen. The wind farm will be constructed around 45 km north of The components which weigh several tons Jean Huby, CEO of AREVA Wind stated: the island of Borkum. (a nacelle has a weight of 233 tons) were “The safe and successful transport of the contractually shipped to the base harbour 120 big components of the M5000 wind The installation of the tripods and the for the Trianel wind farm Borkum. energy converter was possible thanks to foundations for AREVA Wind’s wind the good co-operation with Trianel. The energy converters, started in June 2012. The wind turbines will be stored in successful execution is clear evidence The 5 MW M5000 is a world-wide first Eemshaven until planned installation for the necessity of strategic partnerships for the exclusively designed wind energy in spring and the components will be and for the safety spirit within the entire converters for harsh offshore conditions. constantly monitored by AREVA Wind. offshore industry.” AREVA Renewables. Successful execution www.arevawind.com The transport was successfully executed, thanks to high safety standards for all participants and the optimised co-operation with all participating companies.
The 56 metre long rotor blades for the wind energy converters will be transported for final assembly from Stade to Eemshaven. The Trianel wind farm Borkum is an important milestone for the offshore development in the North Sea and important for the offshore wind industry.
06 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS
Tidal Transit achieves ISO 14001 certification the internationally recognised Environmental Management Standard for business. Executive,” says Leo Hambro, Tidal The certification defines controls Company growth Transit’s Commercial Director. “She has for any activity that has an effect Tidal Transit is a young company, growing worked hard to achieve the standards on the environment, including the in response to the development of required by ISO 14001 because we all use of natural resources, handling offshore wind farms, particularly those in feel that it’s an extremely worthwhile and treating of waste and energy the southern North Sea off the coast of certification. As a company heavily consumption. East Anglia. involved with the providers of ‘green’ energy, it naturally follows that we show It is developing that we are committed to environmental a fleet of issues and are prepared to work towards personnel improving the environment in this way.” transport vessels that can The process comfortably Explaining the process, he goes on accommodate to say: “QMS, the assessing body, up to 12 reviewed all our documentation, made passengers - recommendations and supplied us with more usually a systematic way of discovering and technicians and controlling the effects the company mechanics that has on the environment. Once we have are working on implemented all its systems, it will help to the construction save costs through improved efficiency or maintenance and productivity. It has been a very of the wind worthwhile exercise.” farms. Tidal Transit Limited “The exercise www.tidal-transit.com has been headed by Click to view more info Christine Colbert from QMS (left) and Kerry King Kerry King, our from Tidal Transit Quality Health and Safety = Click to view video
Special lifting harnesses have been design Tentec Supplies Bolt Tensioning Tools to Wind to further speed up the operation as there Turbine Gearbox Manufacturer ZF Industries are 60 bolts to be tensioned on each individual gearbox. A new wind turbine gearbox manufacturing Main advAntage plant in Gainesville, In addition to spring returned piston which Georgia has purchased greatly speeds up the operation, the other a Tentec M42 WTB bolt main advantage of the Tentec tools is that tensioner system for its they are fitted with a spring-loaded device. production facility. This automatically engages the tensioner drive socket with the hexagon nut so the ZF Industries opened its operation is completely transparent to the new factory in 2012 and user and no time is wasted aligning the manufactures the Atlas 1 tensioner with the nut. wind turbine gearbox for Vestas. Tentec Ltd www.tentec.net Specifics The Tentec M42 Wind ZF Industries Turbine Tensioners www.zf.com provide the production engineers at the plant with Click to view more info the ability to quickly and accurately carry out bolting on the gearbox casings.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 07 INDUSTRY NEWS
in 2000 - at the time, the first offshore installation anywhere in the world - and during this time we’ve built a lasting and Alnmaritec trusting relationship with Alnmaritec.” Specifically in regard to ‘NSL Discovery’ Mr Armstrong said “I am delighted makes with the performance of the new boat. She has proved herself on trials to be extremely capable in some very demanding conditions and she will be a Discovery real asset to our North Sea operations. She is a credit to the workforce at Alnmaritec and I am confident that she will prove to be one of the best vessels in the industry”.
Chris Millman said “I am extremely happy with the way the boat has turned out. The wind farm market is an important one for us and we are determined to stay in the vanguard of the development of these boats.”
Relevant past experience But it’s not just the offshore wind sector Alnmaritec supply to as Mr Millman explains, ”We have been building boats for Wave Captain class specification Alnmaritec Company progress over 20 years and have supplied vessels The 19m Wave Captain class boat is The 11th boat built by Alnmaritec for to operate in some of the harshest powered by 2 x 880bhp Doosan engines North Sea Logistics, Discovery is also conditions on every continent in the and reaches over 25 knots. She has hull number 150 for the Blyth based world, for clients operating in a range of demonsatrated exceptional sea-keeping company. Managing Director Chris sectors. For example currently in build characteristics and superb handling when Millman commented “We’re delighted to we have a pilot boat for a project in West approaching and pushing up on the wind hand over ‘NSL Discovery’ which is the Africa, a passenger vessel for a Scottish turbines. latest of our builds intended to work in construction project and workboats for the growing offshore wind industry.” clients in Korea and Singapore which will Finished with the innovative ‘Intersleek’ be used in the Oil & Gas industry.” paint system designed to provide fuel and North Sea Logistics progress environmental benefits, this state of the art North Sea Logistics Managing Director Alnmaritec Ltd wind farm support vessel (WFSV) design David Armstrong commented “We have www.alnmaritec.co.uk has full suspension seating for 12 and been involved in the offshore wind includes a large galley and mess area as industry for 13 years, starting with the well as four day berths on the lower deck. construction of the Blyth Wind Farm
08 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS
BELOW: Bryam Delgadillo (right) and fellow technician Daling Gonzílez Renewable during maintenance on the turbine. World Transforming Lives through Renewable Energy
Renewable World, the international non-profit organisation of the Renewable Energy Industry, thanks all the companies who generously supported their BBC Lifeline Appeal. Important services and The short film, which featured renewable energy projects in opportunities Nepal, was presented by celebrity Gethin Jones. With the In a context where average education support of Wind Energy Network, Renewable World is delighted is primary level, the project not only to have raised over £12,000 to help tackle poverty through provides important services, but also gives renewable energy. opportunities to young people like Bryam. Armed with his new skills in installing solar Life changing work and renewable energy services, he now Donations from the appeal are supporting life-changing work plans to study electrical engineering at in Central America, East Africa and South Asia. For example, university. Renewable World is providing a mini grid for home lighting in the mountain village of Cuajinicuil, Nicaragua. Developed alongside Changing the lives of vulnerable local partners BlueEnergy, Green Empowerment and AsoFenix, people the 1.5 kW wind–solar hybrid system provides electricity to Giving people like Bryam the tools to work 20 households for lighting, powering small appliances and the their way out of poverty though renewable building of micro-enterprises such as fruit processing. energy is at the heart of Renewable World’s work. The resources and expertise As 19 year old local technician Bryam (pictured) recently donated to Renewable World by the commented to Renewable World: “It is a privilege to be able global renewable energy industry bring real to help build and look after a wind turbine for our community. change to the lives of vulnerable people The clean energy it provides will help the people of my living in remote off-grid communities. community to work their way out of poverty. Electricity from the micro grid now provides light for school children and Renewable World students to study in the evening”. www.renewable-world.org
Click to view more info
= Click to view video
Image - Cuajinicuil turbine
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 09 INDUSTRY NEWS The UK Green Investment Bank first direct equity investment in offshore wind
The UK Green Investment Bank GIB acquires its stake alongside “Rhyl Flats was an ideal investment for (GIB) is pleased to confirm its first Greencoat UK Wind PLC which also us as it helps to develop the market for direct equity investment in offshore acquires a 24.95% interest from RWE, buying and selling operating offshore wind through the acquisition of a following its successful flotation on wind assets, allowing the release of 24.95% stake in Rhyl Flats Wind Farm the London Stock Exchange, the first capital back to the original developers, Limited (Rhyl Flats) from companies company of its kind to be fully invested which will be invested in new renewable owned by RWE AG (RWE) for a cash solely in operating UK wind farms. projects in the UK. At the same time as consideration of £57.5m. developing a market, this investment will By selling a minority stake in Rhyl Flats, deliver a commercial return to the bank.” Landmark transaction RWE will raise new capital which it plans This landmark transaction represents a to invest in other renewable energy Green Investment Bank significant step for GIB in supporting one projects in the UK. www.greeninvestmentbank.com of its core sectors, offshore wind. Rhyl Flats wind farm is located eight kilometres Offshore wind sector – off the North Wales coast in average important investment water depth of eight metres. It has been Commenting on the acquisition, Shaun fully operational since March 2010 and Kinsgbury CEO of the UK Green consists of 25 Siemens 3.6MW turbines Investment Bank, said: “The UK Green with a total capacity of 90MW. Investment Bank is delighted to announce this important investment in the UK offshore wind sector, which is a priority sector for us.
10 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS Konecranes UK wins Siemens Austria Samsun power plant cranes contract East Kilbride based Konecranes UK stores and records the number of cycles, Dyna controls are so fine that they can be has won the Siemens AG Austria overload attempts and temperature trips. set to communicate crane to crane and contract to supply cranes for the maintain affixed distance. In the event Samsun Cengiz Enerji combined- Both cranes have girder and trolley that a crane did get out of position for cycle power plant in Turkey. platforms, cross and long travel 2 step some external reason then a safety wire magnetic limit switches, true vertical lifting is provided that would disconnect if the Specifications on all hoists, double main hoist brakes, distance was out of tolerance, stopping The contract won by Konecranes UK disc brakes on all motions, ultimate hoist both cranes. Industrial Cranes Division is for two x limit switches, hook safety catches, 250 tonne SMD cranes working at 33 ramshorn main hooks, cross crane Remaining order metres span for the turbine hall and a festoon cables, floodlights, plugs and The remainder of the order is for three variety of smaller crane models. The 250 sockets, panel lighting, motor and panel CXT cranes, one CXTS, one CXTSU and a tonne SMD cranes will be fitted with the heating and remote monitoring of the CXTD. The 3 CXTs will operate at 9.25mt company’s renowned high technology crane operating systems. span, the CXTSU on 4.8mt span and the components including Konecranes DynA 10 tonne CXTD on 14.95mt span. Invertor variable speed control on all Tandem operation of both cranes from motions with the added feature of ESR 1 crane cabin/radio with feed back All will have Konecranes features such (Extended Speed Range) on the main monitoring of the “SLAVE” crane to the as DynADrive inverter variable speed hoists and Konecranes Remox radio “MASTER” crane, back-up radio control, control on cross and long travel motions controls with back up pendants. tropicalised electrics, disc brakes, limit and dual speed hoists. The cranes also switches on all motions and heaters in have festooned cross travel conductors, Features panels, motors, long travel conductors, ControlPro condition monitors on each All hoists feature Konecranes ControlPro isolator and anti-collision between cranes. hoist, Konecranes Remox radio control Monitors where the unit monitors each and back up pendants and they are all hoist operation, providing overload Special lifting beam equipped with limit switches on each detection, brake wear monitoring and A special lifting beam is included for a motion. calculates the crane hoist duty allowing combined lift of 480t when the cranes 100% planning of maintenance activities are in tandem. There is no mechanical tie Konecranes uk to suit the actual crane duty. The unit also between the cranes when in tandem, the www.konecranes.co.uk
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 11 WHAT’S NEW Events and what’s new We continue to feature some of the most important events in the calendar, so that you can, at a glance, consider which events to support. A more detailed listing is available online.
There continues to be issues with the amount, scale and cost of events laid on for this fast growing industry. We will only feature those events which we believe are organised in the best interests of the industry as a whole.
CanWEA Western Forum 2013 AWEA Windpower 2013
When 11 - 12 April 2013 When 5 - 8 May 2013 Where Vancouver, Canada Where Chicago, United States contact www.canweaforum.ca contact www.windpowerexpo.org
PWEA 2013 Windforce 2013
When 24 - 25 April 2013 When 4 - 6 June 2013 Where Warsaw, Poland Where Bremerhaven, Germany contact www.psew.pl contact www.windforce2013.com
RenewableUK Cymru 2013 RenewableUK Offshore Wind 2013 Conference & Exhibition When 1 May 2013 Where Cardiff, UK When 12–13 June 2013 contact www.renewableuk.com Where Manchester Central, Manchester, UK contact www.renewableUK.com
EWEA Technology Workshop: Resource Assessment 2013
When 25 – 26 June 2013 Where Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland contact www.ewea.org
EEEGR – People: Powering the Future - Skills for Energy
When 4th July 2013 Where John Innes Centre, Norwich contact www.eeegr.com
Brazil Windpower 2013
When 3 – 5 Sep 2013 Where Rio de Janeiro, Brazil contact www.brazilwindpower.org
Windaba
When 25 – 27 Sep 2013 Where Cape Town, South Africa contact www.windaba.co.za
12 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk WHAT’S NEW
Magazine and website Forthcoming interaction features QR codes next edition You will notice that we have changed our pink and green • Spotlight on South East Coast of England flashes indicating more information online. QR codes • Scour Prevention – updates have been substituted which means that you can scan • Workboats the code with your smart phone and it will direct you to • Lifting the featured company/organisation micropage held within • Developments in Foundation Technologies our website so that can learn much more in all sorts of • Turbine access products formats. • protective Clothing
Sample QR codes Please contact if you would like to be involved in Please scan any of these features.
Supply Chain Register Looking for a specialist service provider in the wind energy industry?
Visit our extensive online Supply Chain Register where circa 1200 companies specific to the wind energy industry are listed:
W www.windenergynetwork.co.uk T 01765 644224 E [email protected]
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 13 SKILLS GAP Wind energy industry skills gap initiative update
History The time has now come to review Wind Industry Careers ‘road- In the April/May 2012 edition we featured the situation having gathered all the shows’ the ‘Kent Schools Wind Energy Enterprise information and response from the It remains our intention to tour the UK Challenge’ which started our initiative on industry. and organise road-shows at appropriate addressing the wind energy industry skills venues suited to the 4 target areas i.e. gap as a matter of urgency. Wind Industry Careers website selected schools, colleges, universities Preparations are in hand to launch the and company sites/forces bases – all I year ago we reported that we see there new Wind Industry Careers website. We decision makers from the relevant areas of are 4 main areas to focus on if we are delayed this launch until the industry the industry, some of which have already to satisfy that need and would include a understood what we are trying to achieve been approached for their comments, focused approach in the following areas... in the best interests of the industry as a were enthusiastic about getting involved whole. with this initiative. Following further • Schools – student engagement and consultation with interested parties awareness at the early stages of This interactive and informative website timescales and road-show formats can be career development (ages 14 onwards) be used to attract people of all ages and discussed and decided. • Schools’ 6th Form /further education – abilities into the wind energy industry. schools/colleges We will keep you informed of • Engineering and science graduate There are a number of initiatives to help developments. attraction – universities the industry progress in the skills area • Mature experienced individuals from and it is our policy to compliment these Regular skills gap feature other relevant energy industries/sources initiatives and not to be in competition with The Skills Gap initiative has attracted many e.g. oil & gas industry/forces etc anyone. editorial contributions from educational establishments who are carrying out A major feature in the June/July 2013 Wind Industry Careers steering sterling work in their own areas of highlighted each of these areas as a group expertise. prelude to a series focusing more in detail With this in mind we created the Wind in each of the following editions. Industry Careers steering group to guide We will therefore continue to host a regular us through the set up and monitor the skills gap feature within each edition of the Editorial evolved over those editions and progress of the initiative. magazine – please feel free to contribute featured all sorts of contributions from regular editorial for inclusion. many areas of the UK and also drew lots The group met in late 2012 to set policy of interest from Europe and beyond. and procedures – the first meeting was Duncan McGilvray extremely successful and the second Editor meeting is scheduled in 2013 followed by the launch of the new website.
14 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SKILLS GAP Lowestoft College facilities under spotlight
Lowestoft College’s engineering and maritime facilities were under the spotlight recently when Skills Minister Matthew Hancock, Skills Minister, with Waveney MP Peter Matthew Hancock had a tour of the Aldous in the Lowestoft College training tank specialist facilities.
Matthew Hancock, Skills Minister, at Lowestoft College’s Ship’s Bridge Simulator Matthew Hancock with apprentices/students
Whistle-stop tour Gaining an insight Mr Hancock had a whistle-stop tour of Simon Summers, Principal at Lowestoft some of the College’s facilities including College, said: “We were very pleased that the 18 metre wind turbine tower which Skills Minister Matthew Hancock spent was installed just over a year ago to train time with us and was able to see what workers in the wind farm industry. He also Lowestoft College offers. By talking to watched Uniformed Services students apprentices and students he was able being put through their paces with an to gain a good insight in to the issues emergency evacuation drill in the Training facing them and see just how committed Tank before being wowed by just how they are to their studies. The visit was realistic the Ships’ Bridge Simulator was. also an excellent opportunity for us to showcase the range of courses we offer Apprentices including those which support the key Mr Hancock also spoke with Engineering local industries of Maritime, Offshore and Apprentices and watched them at work in Energy.” the recently upgraded workshop which now boasts state-of-the-art training facilities. The Minister was joined by Waveney MP Peter Aldous and Leader of Suffolk County There was also time to meet travel and Council, Cllr Mark Bee. tourism students and answer their questions. Lowestoft College www.lowestoft.ac.uk
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 15 SKILLS GAP
Honorary degrees for industry leaders
Industry leaders in the power and International technological The Power Networks energy sector have been made university Demonstration Centre honorary graduates of the University As a leading international technological The University of Strathclyde is home to of Strathclyde – recognising their university, Strathclyde plays a pivotal role the largest electrical power engineering outstanding contribution to one of the in research, teaching and knowledge and energy research group in Europe. most important fields in the Scottish exchange in power and energy, and is Later this year it will officially open– a world economy. currently the Times Higher Education UK class research centre which is the first of University of the Year. its kind in Europe.
First Minister’s commendation First Minister Alex Salmond said: “The six prominent energy figures honoured by Strathclyde University today have been central to the development of the energy industry in Scotland in recent years through their business leadership and academic expertise.
“These deserving graduates have made, and are making, a major difference to one of Scotland’s most important sectors and by doing so are also making a difference to the prosperity and wellbeing of communities across the country.
“Today’s event also recognises the extent to which universities such as Strathclyde benefit from close links to industry, and Presentation Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal how much each of the industry figures The honorary degrees were presented at of the University of Strathclyde, said: receiving these awards gain from their a specially-arranged Power and Energy “Strathclyde plays a key part in the interaction with the education sector. event held in the Glasgow Science Centre, global power and energy sector and this with First Minister Alex Salmond delivering event provides us with the opportunity “Only by forging partnerships and the keynote address. to recognise the significant contribution collaborations such as the ones highlighted made by key individuals. today will Scotland’s energy sector be able Receiving the awards were Keith to harness the talent of our young people Cochrane, Group Chief Executive of the “As a major contributor to economic and continue to drive the renewables Weir Group; Ignacio Galán, Chairman development in Scotland, it is vitally revolution in the coming decades.” and Chief Executive Officer of Iberdrola; important that academia and industry Steve Holliday, Chief Executive of the collaborate to develop world-class Technology and Innovation National Grid; Professor David MacKay, research and ensure that Scotland Centre (TIC) Chief Scientific Advisor at the Department continues to flourish as a leader in power In addition, 2014 will see the opening of of Energy and Climate Change; Ian and energy. the TIC. The centre will forge new levels of Marchant, Chief Executive Officer of SSE collaboration with business and industry, and Sir Ian Wood. “In being named UK University of the creating jobs and attracting inward Year, Strathclyde was described as investment. Academic seminar a ‘bold, imaginative and innovative The ceremony was preceded by an institution’ – an approach we share with Major partners academic seminar involving the six the individuals we have honoured today.” Developed with industry, for industry, the graduates, where each spoke on the £89 million centre has already attracted major themes and challenges facing the major partners including SSE, the Weir industry. It was attended by researchers, Group and ScottishPower and it will students and figures from across the become the cornerstone of Scotland’s sector. International Technology and Renewable Energy Zone (ITREZ), a global research and development hub in the heart of Glasgow.
University of Strathclyde www.strath.ac.uk
16 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SKILLS GAP
Company re-launches to tackle skills challenge
“There is not a significant skills shortage yet, but with the continuing gas field work, new nuclear and the developing windpower sector, if we do not get our act together now the gap could become huge. We want to ensure clients are prepared.
“What we are looking to achieve as a business is to provide a seamless support service to our clients.”
The company can also offer recruitment process outsourcing to clients without their own specialist or HR teams.
Clients Recruiting everyone from directors and senior managers through to technicians John Balch (left), NWES Strategic Director, welcomes PWE Managing and labourers, PWE has companies like Director Stuart Smith to OrbisEnergy. Mott McDonald, Proserv Controls, Tyco Fire & Integrated Solutions and 3sun among its clients. The search for enough skilled workers “Over the last few years, we have gone to meet the future demands of the from strength to strength and expect last EEEGR East of England energy industry has year’s £2.4m turnover to leap to £3m this Mr Smith said they were indebted to prompted one recruitment business to year,” he said. “We’re not only stepping EEEGR (the East of England Energy re-name and re-launch itself ready for up the recruitment business but intend Group) and consultant John Balch for the challenges ahead. taking on six new staff ourselves over the support and funding arrangements during coming three years.” the redevelopment plans. People with Energy (PWE Recruitment Group Ltd) Sister companies PWE Recruitment Group Inspired by its own slogan, Beccles-based The group comprises sister companies www.peoplewithenergy.co.uk PDS will from this week be known as the Forces4Energy, which recruits ex-military PWE Recruitment Group focusing totally personnel for the energy industry, and on recruitment and saying farewell to a London-based Forces4City, which has 25-plus year heritage since it started life as a wider industry brief and specialises in Project Design Services. finance and information technology.
2013 – a year of change And as well as its Beccles headquarters, Stuart Smith, who took control of the PWE has offices at OrbisEnergy, business four years ago after working Lowestoft, and Sunningdale and is there for nearly two decades, said 2013 opening shortly in Aberdeen. would be a year of change, evolution and expansion with more than £65,000 Keeping the lights on invested in the company’s re-branding. “Keeping the lights on is paramount so the energy industry is always buoyant.” said Mr Smith.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 17 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Changing the Future Part 1 Coaching & Mentoring
In Part One Performance In Part two Frank will look at how to These older staff might then start to enjoy Consultant and Conference make presentations that can change the respect and admiration that may have Speaker Frank Newberry makes the future. been denied them in the past. the case for how you can change the future – at any time in your In a previous article (‘Don’t Ask Me But you do not have to wait until you are career. – I Can’t Change Now’) I touched old and grey – you can start right now. on how older staff can get actively He concludes that you do not have involved in passing on a great legacy of Here are two ways you can get started to wait until the last few years of professionalism to the younger generation. right away: by coaching and by mentoring. your career to plan the legacy of professionalism you will leave for posterity. You can start right now - by coaching and mentoring people.
18 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Mentoring Let’s move on now to mentoring. Speaking personally I can only coach people in my areas of experience and expertise e.g. management, team building, negotiating, presentation skills etc. However over the years I seem to Coaching have acquired more and more ‘mentoring’ Let’s start with coaching. This is a clients i.e. people who want the magic of work activity that rates highly amongst one-to-one learning sessions as well as, or progressive people at all levels. It seems instead of, the classroom experience. that many of us really enjoy developing the mentoring sessions, that involved a lot of skills of new and improving staff. In fact I am usually a mentor to professional, walking around his premises and talking many regard passing on skills and advice technical and scientific people because about his job, helped him to transform to ‘learners’ as one of the most fulfilling I cannot really coach them to perform his performance and his employer now parts of their job whether they are in a their individual calling. I am not on the recommends mentoring wholeheartedly. supervisory role or in an expert role. premises, like you might be, to coach them, to run behind them or sit alongside Again in recent times an outgoing No problem anticipated here then. Maybe the individual who wants to do his/her job manager sent his replacement (his deputy) you just need to let the boss know that better, or inspire a group of disgruntled for a series of half day mentoring sessions. you want to start coaching or spend more people at a meeting. After each session workplace goals time doing it. The more you do the more were set for the coming week and the widespread will be your legacy of good What you and I can do in the mentoring individual would then report on his results practice in your profession. role is listen carefully to the individual’s at our next half day session. The outgoing concerns and then bring a lot of good fellow was able to monitor results, which On the days when you take someone experience into play in a discussion about exceeded everyone’s expectations, and to a higher level or stop someone doing a problem that is really vexing an individual by using the quieter half days disruption to something wrong you are ‘changing’ the or his/her employer. normal working was minimised. future for that person. Indeed it might be said that you are changing the future - one Again I can only speak for myself - but So if you are looking to add even more person at a time. the type of problems and work situations satisfaction to your role then think I have helped people tackle successfully about mentoring as a way to boost the through mentoring include career issues performance and confidence of your at junior and senior levels; dealing with people. It is cost-effective use of your time demanding people, performance issues at and you can customise it to the needs of junior and senior levels and a wide range the individual and the requirements of your of other thorny management questions. employer.
How is this done? Typically the mentoring I Good luck with changing the future – one do is face-to-face at a convenient location, person at a time. In the second part of this or on the telephone (in an emergency). article I will look at how you can change I increasingly mentor on-line with e-mail the future by making presentations to messages going back and forth. people – standing up and speaking up!
Results Results as far as I can tell seem to have all Frank Newberry been positive to date. This is in no small www.franknewberry.com part down to the honesty and realism that comes from a one-to-one session. For example a middle manager in a highly successful company, seeking a £25k per annum pay rise immediately, became more realistic following our telephone mentoring session he was able to quickly secure an extra £20k per year – with the increase spread over three years.
In recent times I spent a day mentoring a young and untrained supervisor who had reading and writing difficulties of his own. He confided that he would never attend conventional management training courses because of the (continuing) pain and embarrassment he had suffered since his school days. However, one to one
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 19 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Management Matters
In the last of the workshop series, The role of management is to execute created by of Renewables Network the agenda. The agenda can be one of to help businesses prepare for incremental improvement of performance the demands of the offshore wind to maintain a ‘no change’ strategy, or it energy supply chain, the subject is can be to execute exciting and significant management. Here John Britton, transformation triggered by a new Director of Renewables Network strategic vision. The specific challenges Ltd, discusses the critical, but often may be different, but the role is the same – misrepresented role of management. to execute the agenda. Many things have been published over with which Kotter describes the essential the years that have simply served to • Are these roles mutually exclusive? steps required to secure organisational confuse managers by mixing style No, a manager can also be a leader. change is very helpful for every manager. and function as if they are the same • Are these roles mutually dependent? thing. In this workshop the focus is on No, a leader can emerge from the These steps are: function, leaving the question of style laboratory or from the sales force to Step 1 is exclusively the role of leadership; to the individual. The only style that sell a new concept, never having had this is where the change concept is sold will work is the one that is natural to any management experience at all. to the agenda-setters. Steps 2 and 3 will you. Also a manager can be a superb certainly involve the leader to ensure the manager without ever being a leader. concept is not diluted or hi-jacked by another influence, but it is in these steps LEAD OR MANAGE? CHANGE MANAGEMENT that the management of change begins This is the first question that needs to be There you have it. The function that to be organised. From there on in the role resolved. One hears a number of one- is the subject of countless seminars is exclusively management. Whenever liners that are designed to capture the and hundreds of books is change I check my own conviction by reading essence of each. MANAGEMENT, not ‘change leadership’. through this list I get questioning thoughts This whole topic embraces the two roles, such as “Step 5: Empowering others – “Leading is transformational, managing is but the far more significant function that sounds like leadership”. But I soon transactional” in the achievement of change is the realise that I am thinking about style rather management role of executing the change than function, I am thinking about inspiring “Leaders are inspirational, managers are agenda. John Kotter is, perhaps, a better and then charismatic communication. technical” known author than Mitch McCrimmon Empowerment of others (or delegation) and his book ‘Our Iceberg is Melting’ is a management function and can be a These statements sound catchy, but co-authored with Holger Rathgeber has success in a number of styles, just the they confuse function and style. One certainly achieved book of the month same as it can be a miserable failure in a of my favourite books on the subject is status in management circles. The clarity number of styles, but more of that later. “Burn! 7 Leadership Myths in Ashes” by Mitch McCrimmon. In it he clarifies very effectively that leadership and KOTTER McCRIMMON management are distinct roles, both of 1 Create a sense of urgency – help others to see the need for LEAD which can be accomplished in a range change and the importance of acting immediately of styles. For him the role of leadership is to set a new agenda for the team. This 2 Pull together the guiding team – make sure there is a powerful MANAGE/LEAD group guiding the change makes the role more than innovation, there are plenty of innovators who don’t 3 Develop the change vision and strategy – clarify how the future MANAGE/LEAD manage to sell the change of agenda to will be different from the past which their innovation opens the door. A leader has to sell the change to the 4 Communicate for understanding and buy-in – make sure as MANAGE many others as possible understand and take ownership of the ‘agenda setters’. As such a leader can strategy exist anywhere in an organisation, not just at the top. 5 Empower others to act – remove all the barriers so that those who MANAGE are committed to the change can succeed
6 Produce short term wins - create some visible, unambiguous MANAGE successes as soon as possible.
7 Don’t let up – be relentless in achieving change after change until MANAGE the vision is a reality
8 Create a new culture – hold on to the new ways of behaving until MANAGE they become strong enough to replace the old traditions
20 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
It sounds good stuff doesn’t it? And so it is. However, I would guess that 95% of the individuals who work for businesses that have been sold ISO9001 have no QUALITY MANAGEMENT familiarity with this set of principles. Whether the subject is the management of The ONLY chance of successfully quality or the quality of management the implementing ISO9001 is if 100% of message is the same. the individuals understand how these principles relate to their work experience, The principles of ISO9001 are almost and are committed to applying them. universally valuable, but the value of FINAL THOUGHTS ISO9001 implementation is almost ENVIRONMENT McCrimmon and Kotter have clarified the universally ridiculed. In our workshop on competence you subject of management for me. I urge will recall that the three constituents of you to read the books I have detailed. For The subject of implementation, and the organisational competence are Expertise, those avid readers amongst you there is outrage of consultants selling overly Equipment and Environment. One can one other book in my list of ‘must reads’. bureaucratic compliance systems see just how important it is for managers Marcus Buckingham’s ‘First Break All the without a single care for the achievement to create, maintain and develop the Rules’ sounds like a call to rebellion, but of ownership throughout the team, right work environment. Without the it really isn’t. It is challenging and thought is discussed at greater length in the understanding of objectives and principles provoking, anything less would be a waste workshop. individuals in the team cannot volunteer of time. their commitment, and Let us concentrate on the positive first without each individual’s half of the statement in this short text. commitment to perform We are talking about Kotter’s steps a manager is consigned 4 and 5. The delivery of a consistent to the close supervision quality performance depends upon the of everyone’s actions. decisions that every individual takes These managers feel when confronted with the variables of the need to monopolise his/her operation. Any other concept of the authority to make team performance is significantly less decisions because, in productive. their view, no-one has earned the trust to be When every individual can take ownership ‘let loose’. of, and personally commit to the principles of quality management he or she is then The litmus test for able to implement them consistently in all a successful work the varying situations with which he/she is environment is confronted. We call this initiative. delegation.
So what are the principles of ISO9001? DELEGATION 1 Understand our customers’ When I think about requirements the good managers I have worked for Management is a function, a responsibility 2 Create the environment to succeed (there have been some) and the bad to execute the agenda. 3 Involve the team fully to achieve managers (there have been more) there objectives is one common factor… delegation. Resist the temptation to mimic someone 4 Identify the activities & resource that All of the good ones were successful else’s style. Even if they have been make a process delegators, and all the bad ones were hugely successful, they have got there 5 Manage the processes that make a awful delegators. Indeed there are very by doing it THEIR WAY. They may sell business system few shades between good and bad books by promoting style, but they won’t 6 turn experience into learning & delegation. improve your chances of being a better improvement manager by persuading you to adopt 7 Manage information to improve What is the difference between a good their style. There is only one successful decisions delegator and a bad delegator? style…YOURS, but the functions of good 8 Create value together with our management are universal. customers For me the answer is authority. Think about it as it affects you. In order to succeed in achieving an objective you John Britton need to know that the responsibility is [email protected] yours, and that you have the authority to take the necessary action. And there you have it, good ones delegate responsibility and authority, and bad ones delegate responsibility, but not authority.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 21 ALL IN A DAYS WORK
Micro-ROVs To add to his list of talents, he pilots ALL IN A micro-ROVs, and undertakes numerous demonstrations and seminars on a regular basis. These micro-ROVs are a scaled down version of their larger DAY’S WORK... relative, however just as adept and skilled in undertaking inspections such Name: Jeff Main Challenges into solutions as foundations, ships, j tubes, quaysides, Company: Tyne & Wear Marine Jeff’s passion derives from the ability to walls and pipelines. Occupation: Managing Director turn challenges into solutions and has the Habitat: Tyne innate ability to be innovative – thinking Jeff has forged such a good rapport ‘out-side of the box’ as the saying goes. with the company called Video Ray, who designed the micro-ROVs, in the USA that Accolade When he was building the TWM Reclaim he has undertaken seminars and talks Not many people can boast the accolade he was met with many build issues, often over there as well as with Atlantas Marine of 500 years experience in a specialist not having the correct tool or equipment in the UK; TWM has even designed tools environment, collectively in the company! with which to work – there was nothing for them! well Tyne & Wear Marine certainly can. suitable available on the market - so he designed and built one which did! Jeff and John have also developed side- Leading the way is Jeff Main, all told an scanning for quay walls and jetties where eclectic and charismatic person who’s story Jeff is very quick to point out that his images can be processed immediately is a most unusual and enlightening one. success is due to the support and loyalty and work can be physically underway of his team, with particular mention to within hours; where previously it would In the beginning... his Business Manager and PA Margaret take a dive team weeks to come up with A background as a fabricator and welder Carrigan and in recent years his Projects the same information. This development for many years, Jeff utilised his experience Manager John Crammon who, he believes has created a great deal of interest and became a welding inspector for is very much on the same wavelength. throughout the world. some 10 years. However the oil industry Often coming up with the same solutions beckoned, where he enjoyed many years to problems without conversing. They Real life scenario employment. bounce ideas off one another when Tyne & Wear Marine were called upon to designing and forward planning and assist with a wind farm vessel which had Alas, with the slump in the 80’s he was therefore make a formidable team. been holed in the river, on an exposed old one of the casualties and was made pile, which ripped through the bottom of redundant. Diversification the ship. Thankfully, it did not sink and the The success of his business is the ability water was contained. Jeff’s team went in Not one to rest on his laurels, having to diversify and offer a variety of services with a micro-ROV, surveyed the damage gained a wealth of experience and a ‘can within the marine environment – with this and an underwater team sealed the hole do attitude’ he set about designing and in mind Jeff and his team are constantly on the outside of vessel - crisis averted! building his own salvage vessel. No mean flexing to the demands required within the feat! industry. Hobbies Designing and inventing (not surprisingly) Jeff, his colleagues in the business New premises and also skiing. Jeff also has a passion and also his marine engineering friends So much so, that they are currently for Salsa dancing, as he and his wife are created a 20 m 140 tonne steel workboat planning on new premises on the regular travellers to Cuba, and no doubt complete with a 15 tonne hydraulic crane waterfront, seeking an ideal location with a end up dancing in the streets! Not sure if – The TWM Reclaim. Almost 1 year to the deep water berth, as they are increasingly this is the case in Tyneside, but if anyone day of sitting down to design his salvage dealing with the wind industry and wish to heralds the way it will be Jeff and Gill! vessel the company of Tyne and Wear concentrate on wind farm mobilisation. Marine Ltd was born in 1987. Unusual circumstances? Wind energy One particular challenge that was brought This quickly became a successful As the wind sector expands Jeff is finding to his table was one that encapsulates business, where there was much that the company is undertaking more and Jeff in a nutshell – this was one which demand for his expertise, not only within more windfarm related projects. demanded tenacity, strategic thinking and the salvage business, but also within above all ingenuity! – all three things he engineering. With his diverse experience, While chatting, Jeff just happened to has in abundance! he grew the company employing over 20 mention matter of factly that he was one of personnel and over the years owning and the pioneers for deep wreck diving using A client had some damaged dock gates manufacturing some 20 vessels, 14 in rebreathers and blending mixed gases in the in a marina which were constantly leaking. place currently. North Sea. Diving - a passion he still enjoys They had to be sealed before work could to this day and has been involved for over commence and repairs carried out. A 30 years for both sport and work. number of contractors had tried and failed previously to do this, however the gates continued to leak.
22 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk ALL IN A DAYS WORK
Innovative SOLUTION At home, asleep and in the middle of the night, Jeff sat up bolt upright and asked his wife “how much is butter?” His wife, somewhat bemused from her slumber responded. Ingenious by design and yet so simple, it consists of standard 10m x 4m pontoons, Jeff had had an epiphany moment. This interconnected, and when assembled can was his solution to the leaking dock gates carry loads of up to 100 tonnes over water which had been giving him a problem! utilising an interlocking pushing tug also Boxes and boxes of Lurpak butter (salted) 10 x 4; it is extremely manoeuvrable and were bought and used to seal the gates. very versatile. Eureka! It worked allowing the repair to take place in the dry. A week later, on The Future dive inspection there was found to be Jeff’s ambition is to grow the business – a natural marvel – thousands of crabs he is not yet ready to retire, to build a new had congregated to the gates and were deep water berth and to establish new feasting on the gastronomy – just goes to premises and continue... show what a superior butter it was! Describe yourself in 3 words In the past when operating his salvage Modestly, he declined to remark, business he was called upon to salvage whereupon his wife came to his rescue shipwrecks, whereupon insurance and stated; kindness; integrity and a ‘can companies would contact him. Alas no do’ attitude gold bullion was recovered! In short Jeff’s ingenuity and enthusiasm is Variety is the spice of life infectious, his attitude is inspiring and his – no two days are the same ambition is boundless. It was a joy to have Variety certainly keeps the momentum just had a snippet of this enthusiasm in going and there is no such thing as our brief interview. a typical day. Jeff is called upon to undertake inspections on a regular basis Fliss Chaffer and he is a regular at the Port of Tyne Wind Energy Network advising on fabrication projects – he can be fitting fenders on the dock sides or be Click to view more info negotiating with clients.
Innovative prowess Another example of his innovative prowess is the design of a modular pontoon which he uses within the wind industry. This allows the huge turbines to be transported via water and not road, which has been used for transporting massive structures – Technip have recently utilised this to transport one of their new SMD Trenchers.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 23 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE
Spotlight focus on the Tyne
&Welcom e againthe to an area of the UK de scribedT ees as ‘an area of excellence in the wind energy industry throughout Europe and beyond’
On this occasion we visit the North East, which our readers may remember from some time ago, when we featured the entire area in a fairly general way. We now focus in on the specific area of the Tyne and the Tees where particular advances have been made.
Existing projects and Round 3 preparations The area not only prepares itself in readiness for the Round 3 Offshore Wind developments but also continues the work already undertaken within existing offshore wind projects including construction, service and maintenance.
Our sponsors for the feature, PD Ports, pick up the story with comments for moving things forward more quickly...
24 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 25 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE
decision to build wind turbines without any firm orders, our ability to build the facilities to assist in meeting these targets Thinking big is hindered.” says Mr Hopkinson. Hampering potential the challenge for logistics PD Ports owns the ports of Teesport and The logistical challenges of of different scenarios, but, given the Hartlepool and has already designated transporting or installing outsize and differing requirements of the various Hartlepool as the focus for its renewable heavy components such as turbines manufacturers and fabricators, until energy facilities. The port has deep water, and blades are considerable, and we know exactly the nature and scope plenty of land available for companies to with larger units on the horizon those of what will be fabricated and shipped build manufacturing facilities and is already involved in the renewable energy through the port, it is difficult to develop home to JDR Cable Systems, a leading sector require planning and foresight, the port infrastructure.” cable manufacturer for renewable energy alongside more Government clarity. projects, and Heerema Fabrication Group, Uncertainty which specialises in the There is great uncertainty in the wind farm engineering and fabrication sector which many believe is based on of large and complex lack of demand and no clear direction structures, mainly for the from the UK Government. offshore oil and gas and energy industry. The uncertainty of manufacturers in the renewable energy market is reflected by “We are talking to the companies, including those involved in industry all the time but providing transport and logistics services there are still so many to those manufacturers. The problem variables. We could is particularly acute because much of configure Hartlepool in the equipment and facilities required to a particular way to suit a handle, for instance, wind turbines, will turbine manufacturer, but need to be purpose-built. Mr Hopkinson further explains, “We need it would need to be different if it was a the developers and the manufacturers sub-structure manufacturer – so we can’t Transportation to make the decisions, but they are not prepare in advance.” About 90% of the world’s non-bulk making the orders because they are cargo is transported in containers, but waiting on Government commitments on While some vessels are being built with substructures, turbines and blades fall long-term policies and subsidies.” a view to the Round 3 market, there will into the 10% of cargo that is too large or potentially not be enough to meet needs heavy to be shipped in a sea container. Time, the greatest hurdle if a sudden upsurge in demand follows a And while some transport companies and The problem is made worse by the fact Government policy announcement. ports are used to handling a wide variety that building vessels and upgrading port of ‘heavy and ugly’ freight, it makes no and other transport facilities takes time. Unlike electronics, where products get sense for them to invest in facilities for smaller as technology advances, there is handling wind farm equipment until they But time is something the UK Government no reason to believe the same is true as know exactly what will be manufactured. does not have. It has signed up to the EU wind power technology advances. In fact, Renewable Energy Directive, committing the European Wind Energy Association it to producing 15% of UK energy from (EWEA) predicts that as the number of renewable resources by 2020. And wind farms grows, the more they will have for electricity specifically, the target is to be located in deeper water where the 30%, with more than two-thirds of that wind speeds are higher – and the larger the predicted to come from onshore and turbines will have to be. offshore wind. Huge potential Round 3 developments Mr Hopkinson concludes: “Like some In 2010, the Crown Estate announced the other ports, we already have strong successful bidders for Round 3 of the UK’s links with manufacturers in the sector offshore wind development, in nine further and have handled a range of products zones. These Round 3 developments are for renewable energy customers. There envisaged on a much bigger scale than is huge potential for ports and other Rounds 1 and 2 combined. transport companies to develop at least part of their businesses around the At the moment, there are just 16 offshore renewable energy sector, but we are Going in blind wind farms, generating 1,858.20 MWe all hampered by the lack of information Jerry Hopkinson, Managing Director – (compared with 324 onshore wind farms) about what is needed.” bulks, ports and logistics at PD Ports, according to RenewableUK. “Unless the explains: “We have the ability to develop Government makes some decisions very PD Ports our port assets to cater for a range soon, or manufacturers make the bold www.pdports.co.uk
26 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE Newcastle Gateshead Powering the future of wind energy Airport to develop new skills and training programmes specifically for the industry. Renewable energy is a key growth wind farms such as: Cable and umbilical sector for Newcastle/Gateshead. manufacture and expertise; ploughing, Every day they deliver innovative offshore The area has been chosen by the UK laying and subsea cables; sea bed wind solutions globally, helping to shape government as the national centre for operations and undersea connection the industry’s exciting future. research into renewable energy and techniques; project management and is the location of some of the world’s design engineering; specialist logistics and Whether you’re looking for office space, largest testing facilities for offshore professional services. need the inside track on what’s happening wind and marine renewables. We’re in the region, or want to know how to also one of six designated Centre’s Innovative riverside facilities tap into the best talent, their Inward for Offshore Renewable Engineering and local supply chain Investment team is here to help. (CORE) in England. The innovative riverside facilities, development sites and local supply chain NewcastleGateshead Initiative Location of supporting technologies add to the www.investnewcastlegateshead.com Their location on the north east coast of already compelling offer to England means Newcastle/Gateshead the industry’s businesses, is situated perfectly as a gateway to the and provide an ideal setting vast amount of opportunities created as for them to offer direct the sector grows. They’re the closest supply lines to UK offshore port (96 nautical miles) to the world’s wind farms. largest proposed wind farm zone, Dogger Bank, making Newcastle/Gateshead an Working together ideal place for businesses involved in the A key element of the area’s research & development, manufacturing, proposition to offshore wind specialist logistics and operations & supply-chain is the extent maintenance of wind turbines. to which local schools, colleges and training Company cluster providers are working Newcastle/Gateshead has a strong with major companies cluster of companies with the key skills like Maersk, Siemens and required for the development of offshore Newcastle International
Wind energy industry Positioned for success From their Teesside supply base, they have recently supplied products and Pipeshield has been operating from services for the Lincs, Lynn and Inner their Teesside supply base at AV are used for submarine pipeline and cable Dowsing wind farms within the North Sea, Dawson’s for over 10 years. They protection, scour prevention, crossings as well as wind-farms in the German and supply subsea protection and and much more. Dutch sectors. stabilisation products and services to clients and projects far and wide. Convenience They continue to promote Dawson’s Quay Having access to well-maintained as a well-positioned, efficient and effective Their products are designed and quayside facilities affords their clients the quayside facility to support the needs of engineered to withstand the toughest convenience and benefit of collecting the renewable sector. and most challenging environmental and products alongside their manufacturing subsea conditions in the North Sea and site, saving on handling and delivery costs, Pipeshield as well as time and transport www.pipeshield.com restrictions. Click to view more info Port facility Positioned on the east coast of the country, Dawson’s AV Dawson Quay facility near Teesside www.av-dawson.com provides an uncongested and efficient port facility Click to view more info to serve the immediate respective offshore wind- farm developments, including those operational and future planned projects.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 27 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE De-risking energy technologies before going offshore
28 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE
The National Renewable Energy provides a controlled environment for the to perform prototype development, Centre (Narec) is celebrating its wider marine supply chain to undertake equipment trials, performance verification, 10th anniversary year after investing research and development and trials of witness tests and prove installation £150 million in integrated research, new offshore equipment. techniques. testing and demonstration facilities for developers of offshore renewable Adaptation Instrumental role energy technologies. Narec has adapted three docks on its They have enabled Narec to carry out an regenerated port-side site on the River instrumental role in testing and trialling of This investment is primarily focused on Blyth to include a wave tank, still water novel cutting devices for rock trenching bringing new offshore wind and marine tank and simulated seabed. These equipment, submerged testing of ROVs, renewable turbines to market sooner in facilities are utilised by both the offshore christmas trees, tether management the UK, but their site in Northumberland exploration and renewable industries systems and subsea foundation performance tests. Other projects have included prototype scale subsea deployment and assembly trials of sonar devices and robots.
Laboratories The docks are complemented by electrical and materials laboratories for the development of power take-off systems for marine renewable devices, failure analysis investigations, materials and coatings selection, system certification, cable joint integrity tests and electrical grid integration.
Test facilities Narec has also built two blade test and two turbine drive train test facilities for the accelerated life testing and development of larger offshore wind turbines, wind turbine blades and tidal energy devices.
The new 3 megawatt drive train test facility can compress many months of tidal exchanges into days of controlled simulated testing on full-scale prototypes. Narec’s integrated facilities provide an independent and confidential environment to accelerate the development of technologies prior to installation offshore.
Technology innovation and world leading facilities Technology innovation coupled with Narec’s world leading facilities are providing a catalyst for technology developers to reduce costs, improve reliability and ensure offshore renewable energy is deployed on a large scale. These developments also help to strengthen international relationships and provide excellent opportunities for traditional industries and the wider supply chain in the UK to make the transition into the offshore renewable energy and wider marine industry.
Narec www.narec.co.uk
Click to view more info
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 29 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE
increased the instrumentation of JS1 and designed a new control system, to ensure Modus: the operation was less labour intensive, and added a number of features to further enable it to meet the requirements of TWO SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS renewables projects such as sonar and Specialist subsea contractor, Modus and shallow water towed jetting spread, underwater cameras. Seabed Intervention has delivered two which was specially-modified by Modus’ significant projects for Van Oord on the engineers to meet the requirements of Delivering important projects high profile EDF Energy Renewables offshore wind farm construction. Jake Tompkins, Managing Director of Teesside Offshore Wind Farm. Modus Seabed Intervention, said: “We The trencher, designated JS1, was were very proud to deliver these two In addition to providing inter-array cable originally designed to bury fibre optic important projects for Van Oord and EDF. trenching and survey services, Modus cables up to 3m below seabed level in delivered new equipment to bury the water depths of up to 18 metres. Modus’ “As well as being a strong endorsement export cables that will carry the power engineers modified the unit to enable it to of our position in the offshore wind supply generated by the array to the shore. bury heavier and more rigid power cables chain, delivering these contracts continues with a diameter of around 200mm. to demonstrate our ability to innovate and Specialist modification develop technology-led solutions, which To facilitate the burial of the two 1.2km Local supply chain support support the cost-effective construction of export power cables, the Darlington-based With the support of its North East offshore wind farms.” company invested in a shore approach England-based supply chain, Modus also experience and expertise Jake added: “By applying our technology development experience and expertise, we have expanded our trenching services through the introduction of the JS1 trenching spread.
“Modus is now able to deliver shallow water cable trenching from offshore wind farms to the beach to complement the capability of our existing fleet of trenching systems.”
Modus www.modus-ltd.com
Innovative engineering solutions
ACEDA, a leading provider of integrated engineering solutions, based in Stokesley, Teesside, are working closely with key organisations within the offshore wind sector to design and deliver turnkey IP integrated services using leading edge fibre optic technologies.
Core infrastructure Fibre optic cables form part of the export and array cables between substations and offshore wind turbines. This core fibre optic backbone provides a platform for IP connectivity for SCADA communications whilst providing future scalability for additional IP edge device utilisation. ACEDA provide connectivity for a number of edge devices that are controlled, monitored and maintained through a Paul Warnes single IP management platform.
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Project (March 2013) two units now taking the equipment to Tyne & Wear Operation carried out: The well over a 100 tonne payload. transportation of a SMD 55 tonne Marine Trencher valued at £4.3 million. Unique interlocking system Through a unique interlocking system After many hours of planning, 10 minutes created and manufactured by TWM, this a case study was all it took to carry out the operation of eight piece Modular Pontoon System Transporting a 55 tonne transporting the Trencher from the North which can be powered by a 10 x 4 Trencher with TWM’s Modular side to the South side of the River Tyne. interlocking Pushing Tug and becoming a Powered Pontoon System (MPPTS) 9 piece Modular System, so flexible that it The powered pontoon system is the latest Using the MPPTS proved to be a cost has for example been used as follows... multi-functional bespoke TWM designed effective way by avoiding the logistics of and built equipment added to the growing trying to move the 55 tonne trencher by • A crane barge range of resources that is available for hire dismantling it, and transporting by road • Dredging through the company. Tyne and Wear through the City of Newcastle. • Transporting equipment up to 100 tonne Marine Ltd has specifically invested in • Stand-off pontoons building these resources to meet the ever After the launch of this multi-role system in • A quick and easy to install ferry landing growing needs of their oil, gas and wind 2012, it has been so successful it has now with a 25m linkspan energy business sector clients. handled a range of diverse contracts. The • Dive support platform recent enhancement of building another The system benefits are... • Multiple uses in many configurations • Easily mobilised and de-mobilised • Totally road transportable • Can be fitted with spud legs • An 8 tonne knuckle crane (removable) is fitted to one of the pontoons • Can be fitted with a 4 point mooring system
Tyne & Wear Marine www.tyneandwearmarine.com
Click to view more info
Leading technology for the company, being involved from and IP access control system if required. Possibilities for IP edge device integration evolution to execution has allowed us are infinite. The company is currently to design and deliver an IP network North East driven conducting research and development engineering solution, which provides the ACEDA was founded by Group Managing on a number of IP solutions for the wind client with the SCADA communications Director, Nick Harker, and has recently turbine industry, including monitoring capability and the facility for further IP celebrated 20 years of trading. Major solutions using fibre optic technologies edge device integration. We believe projects are managed from the head office to detect strain, movement and thermal that the potential to develop the core in Stokesley, and have regional offices changes on subsea cables and turbine infrastructure on offshore wind farms is in Aberdeen, London and Manchester. structures. Other technologies include invaluable. Working with clients during Nick Harker commented, “ACEDA has IP CCTV to monitor health & safety and the design stage is essential to ensure benefited from being based in the North environmental conditions during the full operational capability is achieved for East of England, over the years we installation, operation and maintenance the lifecycle of the asset.” have excelled by sourcing local skilled phases of an asset lifecycle. Integrated IP engineering resource and building Access Control allows key stakeholders to Skills capability relationships with key clients and restrict and monitor access within certain As a turnkey solutions provider, they have suppliers who are often located nearby. areas of a wind turbine to authorised a strong in-house engineering team to A number of key players in the wind personnel. design and deliver each project. Each industry are based in the region and have solution is often complex and requires a access to excellent transport links and a Flagship project – The Lincs high level of engineering experience and number of large industrial ports. We are ACEDA are currently involved in The Lincs expertise. The company has overcome in an excellent position and will continue offshore wind farm project providing a this by recruiting and training a number to support the region through recruitment turnkey engineering solution, including of specialist engineers who have the and building local supply chains.” the fibre optic network. Paul Warnes, capability to provide a multi-skilled service Energy & Process Divisional Director, from subsea HV and fibre terminating and ACEDA said, “The Lincs is a flagship project commissioning to integrating an IP CCTV www.energy-process.aceda.co.uk
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SMD deliver an HD3 Plough ahead of Subsea’s subsea construction vessels as schedule to Reef Subsea part of our integrated subsea services.” Daryl Lynch, Managing Director of Reef Soil Machine Dynamics Ltd (SMD), Q1000 jet trencher in October 2012. The Subsea Power & Umbilical, said: “The subsea equipment designer and Q1000 has now successfully completed launch of the new Heavy Duty Inter-Array manufacturer, succeeded in the early sea trials and her maiden scope of work in cable plough is sure to place Reef Subsea delivery of an HD3 inter array cable the North Sea. Power & Umbilical as a leader in subsea plough to Reef Subsea’s subsidiary installation and trenching sectors. We company, Reef Subsea Power & HD3 cable plough are extremely pleased to have secured Umbilical Ltd (RSPU). Paul Davison, SMD Trenching Manager, the plough work for the next year as it said: “We are particularly pleased with will play a fundamental role in the Gwynt The vehicle which RSPU have named their the successful build and delivery of y Môr offshore wind farm, and will then HDIA (Heavy Duty Inter Array) Plough will this plough. To meet and exceed a complete a workscope in 2014 on the soon be mobilised onto the Polar Prince challenging schedule is a testament to Grane Life of Field project in Norway. subsea construction vessel. the SMD and Reef Subsea project teams. With the introduction of the new plough We look forward to supporting the plough and the jet trencher, we are well prepared Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm trials and subsequent operations. Inter to handle forthcoming wind farm and oil & The HD3 cable plough, which is scheduled array cable burial with the HD plough is gas developments in the UK, as well as in to go straight onto the Gwynt y Môr offshore an enhancement to previous operations European and Nordic waters.” wind farm, is well suited to the simultaneous on the Polar Prince with the SMD MD3 or post-lay burial of large bend radius Plough. Ploughing inter array cables is Soil Machine Dynamics Ltd products up to 200mm diameter. a step change in process and we look www.smd.co.uk forward to supporting such innovation to Specifications help our clients improve assurance and Click to view more info It can be towed with up to 150 tonnes reduce installation time.” in consolidated soils, has on-board jetting to boost performance in sands, Reef Subsea Power & Umbilical = Click to view video and is equipped with subsea loading Tim Sheehan, Reef Subsea Chief and unloading capabilities. It has an Operating Officer, said: “These latest unique feature allowing it to cut a trench acquisitions to Reef Subsea Power & Reef Subsea Power & Umbilical at shallow trench depths (1 to 1.5m) Umbilical positions the Group at the www.reefsubsea.com or at deep trench depths (2.4m) with top of its sector. The new HDIA cable minimal risk to the product compared to a plough, added to the Q1000 Trenching Click to view more info conventional plough. ROV delivered last year, allows us to answer the needs of our clients in a large Q1000 jet trencher range of soil conditions. Both tools can The HD3 plough follows the delivery of the be easily mobilised onto any of Reef
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Barrier Group was formed in 1975 to carry 6 figure investment out painting of structures to be installed as part of the growing North Sea oil industry. The company has gone on to complete for Barrier more than 200 major contracts, totalling millions of square metres of surface Barrier Ltd, which is part of the Barrier steam that spreads and bonds therubber protection and has worked for most of the Group, has completed a significant to Risers and J-Tubes. The vulcanised world’s major oil companies. new investment to support the rubber protects the components transference of skills and technology from corrosion and provides abrasion Further expansion into the offshore wind sector. protection. More recently the company has expanded its operations beyond the oil sector and the group now carries out passive fire protection, metal spraying, powder coating and sub-sea insulation across the aerospace, marine and offshore renewable energy sectors.
Paul Harriman, Managing Director of Barrier Ltd, said: “While this is a relatively new market for us, the principles of delivering high quality engineering solutions are the same as we have been applying for nearly 40 years. The ability to diversify our products and services is essential as energy generation opportunities emerge and grow.
“The offshore wind sector has The Wallsend-based company has In addition, Barrier also has the capability seen a lot of transference in its supply expanded its Coatings Division to be able to apply ribbed rubber to the internal parts chain from the oil & gas sector. This has to deliver neoprene coatings and rubber of clamps, which are welded onto jackets been due to the technical expertise and clamps for offshore wind towers. or wind turbines to hold the J-Tubes and extensive experience of companies like Risers in place. Barrier, which have a proven track record Investment of successfully meeting the requirements As part of a six-figure investment, Barrier Proven corrosion protection of contractors and operators.” has introduced a 14 metre x 3 metre process vulcanising vessel, which enables the The corrosion protection process using He added: “We are very pleased with the process of applying rubber to external vulcanised rubber is already used in investment we have made as it will open Risers and J-Tubes, which are fitted to the oil & gas market, particularly in the up new opportunities for the business and collector platform jackets and larger deep Norwegian market. However, Barrier help establish a position in the offshore water wind turbines. has diversified the process to meet the renewables supply chain.” requirements of the offshore wind sector, The steam-driven vessel generates which has included up-skilling a team of Barrier Group considerable amounts of high-pressure fifteen of its engineers. www.barriergroup.com
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Demolition Port of Sunderland bosses have given the green light to a number of new demolition projects, as it clears space that will allow making waves at it to unlock opportunities for expansion. Clearance of the Cemex UK site at Junction Wharf (formerly No 31 Berth) North East port between Hendon and Hudson Docks in the Port of Sunderland was completed by the Washington-based Hellens Group A fresh wave of demolition projects as part of a scheme to flatten derelict taking place at a burgeoning buildings and create new investment North East port are freeing up opportunities. much needed space for strategic Increased potential storage and development areas expansion Demolition of the dilapidated metal-clad shed, once used by a concrete producer, has increased potential storage and development areas, contributing to plans to bring more trade and offshore vessels to the Wear. It is the second phase of demolition projects undertaken at the port over the past few months, all designed to make it a more attractive prospect for investors.
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Co-ordinated by Sunderland City Council City Services Department in conjunction with the port authority, other demolition work has involved knocking down a one- time carpenters’ shop, once part of the extensive TW Greenwell and Sons ship- repair complex.
Another step forward Maximising assets Matthew Hunt, Director at Port of He added: “Having seen a significant Sunderland, believes the demolition increase in the volume of traffic at the scheme is another step forward in turning port, with more and more business occupied space into a positive asset. being done here, it is vital that we Matthew Hunt maximise every asset we have. He said: “Once part of Sunderland’s coal-exporting and marine engineering “The demolition work and indeed a raft “The changes we are making will not heritage, these old buildings served of other developments at the port over only enhance our offer to businesses their purpose over the years, but were the last few months, are all helping already based here, but will also becoming dilapidated and beginning to us to become even more attractive to make Port of Sunderland an even raise safety concerns. customers.” more attractive location for potential customers seeking a base.” “Demolition has helped to open up Selecting Port of Sunderland additional land capacity, perfect for Mr Hunt added: “There are a growing port-related development, which in turn, number of businesses including some Port of Sunderland will help steer further opportunities for major players operating in the offshore www.makeitsunderland.com business through the port.” sector that are choosing Port of Sunderland as their base. It is therefore important for us to ensure that we are able to accommodate their needs as well as enabling port staff to operate as effectively as possible.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 35 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE Tyne Gangway a world leader in the design and manufacture of lightweight marine access systems
The company is experienced in supplying equipment worldwide using a network of skilled agents, which allows them to fulfill overseas requirement quickly and efficiently.
Services Gangways, accommodation ladders, bridges, lightweight structures and stowing gear are designed and manufactured in the company’s modern production facility using a skilled and flexible workforce.
They offer a standard range of ship and offshore access equipment which are approved by all of the major classification societies and regulatory bodies. Today welding is carried out using the latest synergic pulse History machines which offer superior quality and a high performance. The company was established in 1934 when most of the worlds marine access equipment was manufactured from selected Available items hardwood and built by skilled carpenters. • Accommodation ladders – a comprehensive range of accommodation ladders ranging from 3.5 metres In the 1960’s Tyne Gangway were pioneers in the introduction to 30 metres in length with step spacing and design of lightweight aluminum alloys for manufacturing this equipment. criteria in accordance with the British Standard BSMA89 or Assembled using cold riveting techniques until the introduction of the International Standard ISO5488. welding in the early 1980’s. • Gangways – a range of Lightweight Gangways from 1.5 metres to 48 metres in length, the longer units being jointed for ease of transportation. The Gangways are provided with self-locking socket type stanchions to keep stowage space to a minimum, or permanent rigid handrails, making up a strong girder configuration, used where a gangway is subject to an extreme high design load.
• Design and Manufacture – using the very latest Design & Drawing software (Staad Pro & Autocad) the in-house design Leading the way in department within the company is able to work closely with supporting renewables all their clients. TAG Energy Solutions has created the UK’s fi rst offshore wind turbine tubular foundation production plant. The company offers a fast and efficient service, ensuring that their customers’ expectations are met and exceeded from the With extensive experience in oil & gas, TAG combines this expertise with state-of- initial design concept, manufacture, delivery, installation and the-art facilities to design, project manage through life service. and construct monopile foundations, jackets, sub-station jackets and topside fabrication & fi t out for the offshore energy sector. Repairs – statutory examination and through life servicing Located in North East England, TAG unites this new £20 million Tyne Gangways’ service department have fully trained in-house production facility and new modern blast and paint facility with its technical engineers that offer a comprehensive on-site and or in- existing large construction hall, extensive wet dock and 6,000te load house repair service. Their engineer’s flexibility ensures that they out quay. can travel globally to carry out statutory testing and examination of their clients’ access equipment.
Tyne Gangway www.tynegangway.com
Click to view more info
T +44 (0)1642 565500 | E [email protected] www.tagenergysolutions.com
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Moving pictures Almond Productions are a North-East based video production company specialising in working with Service and Quality is Never an Accident engineering and offshore related organisations. They are It is Always the Result of Intelligent Effort a team who are passionate about making video that is not only good quality, but can convey the right message for their clients. ™ History and leading clients SUBFLEX Almond Productions was set up just Cable Protection Systems over 10 years ago by Almond Kellacher who was initially trained in the broadcast SUBSEA ENERGY SOLUTIONS HAS BEEN FOUNDED AS A DIRECT REQUEST FROM THE RENEWABLE ENERGY industry. The team has now grown and INDUSTRY FOR THE NECESSITY FOR INCREASED each team member has a professional COMPETITION, REDUCED SYSTEM COSTS AND qualification in their specialist area. ENHANCED SOLUTIONS, WITHIN A LIMITED CABLE PROTECTION SYSTEM MARKET PLACE. Previous clients include Amec, BP, Mammoet and Tyne Tunnel 2 amongst DEMAND FOR COST REDUCTION others. Having produced video for the oil, gas and construction Subsea Energy Solutions, an ISOQAR 9001 : 2008 industries they are keen to offer their bespoke services to the wind registered company, has risen to the urgent industry energy and renewables sector. challenge for the demand for offshore wind farm long term sustainability, through means of cost reduction. Why Video? With industry assistance, Subsea Energy Solutions Video has become the most powerful and effective communications can signifi cantly contribute towards the reduction of tool of the last 100 years. Video on the Internet is growing quickly, offshore wind farm design, construction, operational, and viewing content online has actually surpassed traditional maintenance and de-commissioning costs. television viewing. Video included on a website not only portrays a EXPERIENCE & INDUSTRY ADVICE visual message but also aids Google searches and can become a With our industry and project wide experience, the part of search engine optimisation. unique patent pending SUBFLEX TM Cable Protection System offers many unrivalled and unparalleled There may be many reasons that a company might choose to technical and commercial features. engage with video. Video can show a product or service in action, Subsea Energy Solutions have sought industry and for large engineering projects this means that their large scale advice during the development of the SUBFLEX projects can be showcased not only to investors, but to other TM Cable Protection System and taken into interested parties quickly and easily. consideration many requirements such as purchase cost, rapid offshore assembly, rapid installation, Video can also help you reach markets, or locations that could be rapid burial, enhanced cable protection, elimination difficult or costly for live training or speakers to reach, with the added of maintenance requirements, standardisation of components to name just a small selection of features. bonus of a consistent message to all who view it. CABLE INSTALLATION IMPORTANCE Further advantages Offshore windfarm cable installation is a high Apart from ‘showing’ an aspect of a project or a completed cost / high insurance claims theatre and it is well construction in full working order, video also has the advantage of documented that 70% of insurance claims from being able to tell a story and engage with audiences on a deeper windfarm operators relate to cable damage, so there has never been a greater, more important time, level. Because of this, the company likes to work closely with their for the renewable industry to come together and clients to make sure that the finished video meets all of its objectives, support a rapidly emerging company in developing a especially in terms of getting the right message across. This may fully coordinated and fully standardised approach to include design and construction of a wind farm, and add value to monopile J-tube & J-tube-less installations. in-house training.
Return on investment All of these aspects benefit from having a well thought out plan for the video which they can help to develop. Like many engineering projects video production can work in a similar way, the more front end research and development the stronger and better the outcome. All of which makes for a good return on investment.
Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) Almond Productions recognises that sometimes it is difficult to film FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: operations such as the inner workings of a piece of machinery or underwater drilling. To overcome this they can now incorporate CGI +44 (0) 1748 828580 into video to create a realistic view of what the operation actually looks like. E [email protected] Almond Productions W www.subenesol.co.uk www.almondproductions.co.uk
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History Newcastle has a long history of engineering from the Victorian era right through to the Second World War. Newcastle was a hub of engineering providing the world with armaments, railways, shipbuilding and mining equipment. The companies providing this were engineering giants of their time such as Vickers, Armstrongs, CA Parsons, Clarke Chapman, Hugh Woods and also The Swan Electric Light Company amongst others. Design and development Newcastle of power distribution systems such as electrification of Newcastle commercial and transport system was developed by Mertz & McLellan who were fundamental Chambers of in designing the national grid system. More than a hundred years later Newcastle is still a hub of engineering because of its Engineering historic roots and prime location.
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NCOE Newcastle Chambers of Engineering (NCOE) was set up nearly ten years ago and have taken some of their inspiration from Mertz & McLellan, with a modern day approach. For example, providing engineering project development associated with power and energy systems. They also provide a modern day service of safety and risk reduction services to increase reliability and reduce capital spending. The Future Tom Kellacher from NCOE says “We “Our aim is to grow larger in Tyneside based our business model on the way a and with the excellent universities who team of barristers operate their chambers supply top engineering graduates and as a structured partnership. This gives innovative research we couldn’t be our clients the advantage of knowing that Based in Newcastle placed in a better position.” although we are a team of engineers with NCOE is ideally situated to provide a wealth of experience, we are all working services to the growing renewable sector “Looking ahead, Newcastle upon Tyne to the same set of standards and our not only in the North East of England, but has a bright future, because here in clients can expect consistency from each also to a national and international market. the region we will continue to provide member of NCOE.” an international service of engineering Tom Kellacher, a founding member and design. Renewable energy has also The team of NCOE, has a longstanding history had recent investments onto research The team at NCOE comprises of a group of working on Tyneside. His early and development. This puts Newcastle of registered chartered engineering career started with Parsons and Clarke at the forefront of the next phase of professionals. It has a core competence Chapman’s and then developed further engineering developments. And, as of project engineering and safety into providing a service to energy NCOE grows we will continue to provide management with a broad collective suppliers, and their subcontract suppliers, a modern and up to date approach to experience in the on-and-offshore energy, which he has new been doing for over 30 engineering services.” oil & gas and petro-chemicals sectors. years. NCOE is now looking to play a key part in the wind and renewable sector taking Tom says: “With the historic background Newcastle Chambers of energy from field to grid. to engineering that exists in Newcastle, Engineering this gives us the perfect platform and www.ncoe.co.uk helpful engineering articles location to be amongst the diverse Over the past Year NCOE has been supply chain that export internationally Click to view more info supplying the Wind Energy Network and give us the leading edge.” magazine with engineering articles covering important aspects to drive the quality and professionalism of the offshore renewable industry forward.
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training is often small. By locating its training in the heart of the activity, Safety South Tyneside Technology are able to offer a flexible service to Tyneside and the surrounding areas, helping to keep their clients’ Centre of excellence operations running smoothly. for renewable safety Safety Technology’s further collaborations with South Shields Marine School and Leading safety training and equipment training expertise throughout the UK, and the Port of Blyth allow the safety training supplier to the wind energy sector, to continue to provide a high standard provider to offer a full suite of wind energy Safety Technology, recently selected of safety courses for the industry’s safety courses for working both onshore Tyneside as the location of their new technicians.” and offshore, including RenewableUK Centre of Excellence for Renewable Work at Height and Rescue and MST. Safety. With existing training facilities Accreditation in South Wales, Europe and the USA, To ensure the continued growth of wind Safety training under one roof what made Safety Technology choose energy in this area it is vital that there is Working with industry leaders Safety the Tyne and Tees? a secure supply chain to support this Technology soon recognised the need for an ‘all under one roof’ approach to safety training. By offering companies complete training packages for working on wind farms onshore and offshore, individuals can receive all of their required safety training with the minimum disruption to their employers.
Health & safety services The wider safety services provided by the company to the Tyne and Tees area include assistance with the health and safety co-ordination on wind farms, with recent projects at Lynemouth and Middleton. The safety specialists are also Why THIS AREA? expanding industry. As an established fully certified to carry out inspection and When choosing a location for a further training provider, with RenewableUK and maintenance on a range of fall arrest and training venture, Safety Technology looked GWO accreditation, Safety Technology are rescue equipment used in wind turbines, closely at the existing and planned wind working hard to provide full safety support including the Cresto RedPro. energy activity in the UK, and it was soon to the Tyne and Tees to aid growth in this apparent that the North East was the sector. Planning for the future place to be. Its close proximity to over 20 With a recently announced investment of wind farms, including one of the world’s Working with industry £180m for the Port of Tyne’s south bank largest energy projects, Dogger Bank, specialists estate in South Tyneside, it seems that and a further 10 consented or in planning, Safety Technology offers a host of growth is the only way forward for this makes the Tyneside estuary a hub of wind safety training from this region, including area. With further development in the activity both onshore and offshore. RenewableUK and GWO approved pipeline as the Port markets its North Bank courses, delivered from the National estate as a site for offshore wind turbine A focal point Renewable Energy Centre’s (Narec) 27 manufacturing, Safety Technology are General Manager of Safety Technology, metre high wind turbine training tower. currently in talks with partners for further Mike Dickens, said of their new training expansion to their Centre of Excellence for location: “The North East is quickly With the huge surge in wind energy in Renewable Safety in the area. becoming a focal point of renewable recent years, the UK’s need for trained energy, and Safety Technology sees this technicians has grown dramatically, and Safety Technology as an exciting opportunity to further its the window for completing vital safety www.safetytechnology.co.uk
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Falck Nutec makes major additional courses for Falck Nutec upon investment in the future of completion of the project. offshore training Winning combination “Our partnership with Falck Nutec over Falck Nutec, one of the world’s personnel on the Offshore Emergency the years has resulted in a winning leading providers of safety training Heli Team Member (OEHTM) and Further combination dedicated to delivering quality and offshore services, has invested Helicopter Landing Officer (FHLO) training training. The introduction of a 16 metre £400,000 in a state-of-the-art courses. diameter helideck will further enhance the helicopter landing platform at The realistic training scenarios provided for Fire Training Group’s (TFTG) training Specification delegates to develop their skills. centre at Aberdeen Airport. The training rig measures some 16 metres in diameter, which is double the size of the “The continued investment by The Helideck platform, which replicates existing facility at the site and allows a far ourselves and Falck Nutec over the those used to transport oil and gas industry superior training experience for delegates. years demonstrates a commitment personnel to offshore installations and to continually improve the training vessels, will provide industry-leading training. The Helideck features a simulator of the experience for all, and places us at the new E225 helicopter design, which further forefront of training provision in the Wind industry positions Falck Nutec at the forefront of offshore sector.” In the medium to long term the facility may helicopter training for offshore industries. also be used by personnel working on The installation of the new Helideck takes offshore wind farms and associated vessels Catherine Liebnitz, Centre Manager for the total capital expenditure by Falck as the renewables industry continues to Falck Nutec Aberdeen said: “The new Nutec UK in 2012 up to £1.1m. develop and helicopters come increasingly Helideck is another fantastic training into play in this sector, opening up training asset for Falck Nutec. We are delighted More good news opportunities for increasing numbers of that we can offer realistic training which As well as offering the GWO and industry professionals. meets with growing client demand for RenewableUK courses, Falck Nutec specialist training and now, also having UK also provides fitness to work Unique training approval been awarded OPITO approval to deliver assessments, as per the RUK guidelines The investment comes as the company the HLO Further course, this puts us in an and complementary training such as celebrates becoming the world’s only excellent position for the future.” slinger/banksman and rigging and lifting industrial training facility to hold approval training, making Falck Nutec a one-stop- to deliver all five Global Wind Organisation Growing demand shop for the wind industry. (GWO) training modules as well as both of David O’Neill, Head of the Fire Training the Renewable UK wind industry specific Group at Aberdeen Airport, said: “We Falck Nutec training courses. The accolade has been are delighted by this development. www.falck.com awarded to Falck’s Teesside training facility. Falck Nutec’s investment in this project is a sign of the growing demand in the Click to view more info Helicopter training energy sector for offshore safety and fire The new facility means that Falck Nutec training. Aberdeen Airport has invested and TFTG can operate the most up to date in additional instructional staff for its Fire = Click to view video and realistic helicopter training for offshore Training Group to enable the delivery of
Steven Wilson Fire Training Supervisor at The Fire Training Group (FTG) and Cath Liebnitz Centre Manager Falck Nutec Aberdeen.
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Scientists, Warehousing, and Building Transferable skills of engineering Services, with many transferable across apprentices will support offshore different sectors, including offshore wind. Modus Seabed Intervention wind growth One of the companies they work with The transferable skills gained Workforce development is Darlington-based Modus Seabed by engineering apprentices In addition, TTE also provides workforce Intervention, the subsea specialist, which will be a boost for the development for global industry and operates across the oil & gas and offshore growing offshore wind regularly welcomes technicians from wind sectors. sector, according to The TTE locations such as West Africa and the Technical Training Group. Middle East to its highly-specified, TTE has devised a training programme, industry-standard training centre. which provides the skills required to Working with industry support the company’s rebuilding and The Middlesbrough-based training They also provide in-country skills maintenance operations for its fleet of organisation works closely with industry development and consistently deploy remote operated vehicles (ROVs) and to provide skilled technicians through its teams of training professionals around the associated equipment. suite of apprenticeships and up-skilling world who train and assess candidates programmes. on site. Andy Buckworth from The TTE Technical Training Group, said: “As industry has evolved, particularly in the energy sector, we have continually refined our programmes and facilities to meet employers’ requirements. Many of the skills required in the offshore wind supply chain are transferable from other industry sectors, which are supported by the training programmes at TTE and our specialist training equipment.
“The offshore wind sector has the potential to grow dramatically in the near future, which will require a considerable influx of personnel. As well as new entrants to industry, through the delivery of apprenticeships, there will be skilled personnel from other sectors that will require elements of re-skilling to enter the sector.
“TTE is well-placed to support skills development for this sector and has the Predominately serving the manufacturing, With considerable experience working with experience, facilities and expertise to energy, process and engineering sectors, industry employers, TTE has developed deliver the standard the levels of technical TTE works closely with more than 100 its training provision to meet the ever- training and qualifications required by the North East-based companies supporting changing requirements of different sectors. offshore wind supply chain.” their workforce skills development. Its programmes cover disciplines such as Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, TTE Technical Training Group Process, Laboratory Technicians, Young www.tte.co.uk
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Supply chain support from Industrial & Marine Hydraulics
IMH offers significant support to the wind energy supply chain through the design, manufacture, installation, commission and service of hydraulic systems throughout the UK and internationally.
Solutions and experience The company has built a reputation on delivering highly technical hydraulic systems solutions, and has wide ranging experience in difficult to solve problems.
High profile clients Clients include Fred. Olsen Marine Services and MPI Offshore, working across their jack-up systems, main & auxiliary cranes, ballast systems, deck winches and machinery, lifeboat deployment and recovery, steering gear, water-tight doors and thruster controls.
SPECIALISED TECHNOLOGY Other clients Paul Griffiths, Company Director, Other clients include Soil Machine says: “In the renewables industry, Dynamics and Deep Ocean Group, the technology is so specialised supporting the design, build and and still being further developed, 24/7 standby support maintenance of their subsea trenching even the main crane equipment is a As part of the wind sector supply chain, machines, deployment and recovery special piece of technology, which IMH are ideally placed to offer 24/7 equipment and ROVs. brings the challenge of assisting with standby support as well as planned the development and maintenance maintenance. With vast experience across In terms of R&D, the company is of these systems. As a technically a range of vessels and environments, currently working with Wind Drive on an based company this is what we companies can count on IMH’s hydraulic innovative turbine concept for onshore were founded to do, and these are and piping engineers to deliver a robust wind energy development and hopes to challenging and exciting times.” and efficient service of their technically be able to report on technical advances advanced systems. in the near future. MPI Offshore MPI Offshore operate the world’s most Dave Galloway, Fleet Manager at IMH advanced and efficient wind turbine MPI Offshore says: “IMH are a very www.imh-uk.com installation vessels, in terms of a jacking professional company with good speed of 0.5metre/minute and 6,000 technical knowledge and dedicated staff. tonnes of cargo, deck space, lifting They have been with us from the start, capacity including a 1,000 tonne main always on hand with support and advice crane and positioning capabilities. IMH to keep our systems running smoothly have offered consistent support to their and efficiently. We count on IMH for fleet since 2003. reliable support for our fleet here in the UK and overseas. It is always a pleasure to work with the team and we would struggle without them.”
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Lift-rite offer support to the offshore renewable sector with services including statutory examination, Lifting equipment maintenance and testing of lifting equipment and height safety systems. and height safety Specific experience The company has worked extensively on Greater Gabbard providing offshore systems qualified engineers to carry out statutory thorough examinations of lifting equipment and maintenance and testing of fall arrest systems on turbines, offshore platforms and on-shore sub stations.
Case study Lift-rite were challenged to design, manufacture and install a bespoke lifting solution for Rhyl Flats. This was designed to assist in the removal of alternators in confined and restricted spaces.
Offering their services to the offshore industry, they are specialists in ship mobilisation and de-mobilisation works and provide a complete rigging service from lift planning through to their qualified rigging teams to carry out lifting operations.
Complete vessel mobilisation service The company travels to various ports to undertake this type of work and have recently opened an additional depot within the port of Blyth with quay and crane facilities to provide a complete vessel mobilisation service.
Offshore projects The main offshore projects Lift-rite have worked on are Greater Gabbard, Rhyl Flats, Gwynt Y Mor and London Array.
Lift-rite www.lift-rite.com
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44 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE BIG PLANS AFOOT The winds of change are starting to blow for the North East of England. With many of the Round 3 Offshore wind farms being located off the east coast of England, the industrial regions on the banks of the of the river Tyne and river Tees are proving ideal locations for companies looking to supply into this exciting arena.
Present situation The Tees already has the yards of Heerema at Hartlepool and The Wilton Group on the banks of the Tees looking to supply heavy fabrications into the offshore wind market and TAG (Tees Alliance Group) have recently invested over £20m in a new facility for the manufacture of monopiles and towers.
Tees Valley CORE Add to this the cable lay capabilities of Deep Ocean and the new Offshore Processing Centre at TATA Steel at Hartlepool and one can see why the Tees Valley is one of the Government’s CORE (Centre for Offshore Renewable Engineering) regions.
North Eastern CORE Similarly the North East region’s other CORE on the Tyne is fast becoming a hive of renewable activity. In 2012 Technip chose Gateshead for the location of a second Offshore Wind office in the UK and SMD have continued to grow at Wallsend supplying both ROVs (Remote Operated Vehicles) and subsea cable laying tractors to the offshore market. In addition the Port of Tyne 40 ha site at North Shields and the old Swan Hunters ship yard offer excellent potential as logistics hubs or locations for new manufacturing capabilities.
OGN (Offshore Group Newcastle) One company based on the Tyne has “big” plans to support the UK offshore wind sector. OGN (Offshore Group Newcastle) has planning approval for a 39,000m2 by 56m high new manufacturing plant on the Hadrian yard at Wallsend.
Regional Growth Fund grant The company have also been provisionally awarded a Regional Growth Fund grant for the factory at which they intend to mass produce jacket wind turbine foundations for the deeper water areas of many of the Round 3 wind farm sites.
State-of-the-art fabrication facilities When completed the facility will bring state-of-the-art fabrication facilities back to the area of the Tyne that is famous for producing the record breaking liner the Mauretania and also for the world’s first steam turbine powered ship, the Turbinia in 1894. Once again the Tyne looks set to lead the world in the world of marine heavy fabrication.
Offshore Group Newcastle www.ogn-group.com
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Subsea array cable installation begins
The latest stage in the construction of Electricity generated by the Gwynt y Môr One of the largest offshore wind Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm, off turbines will be carried via the array cables farms currently in construction the North Wales coast, has got to the offshore substations and then taken in Europe underway with the start of inter-array by four subsea export cables to a beach At 576MW, Gwynt y Môr is one of the cable installation. landing point at Pensarn, near Abergele, largest offshore wind farms currently in North Wales. From there, the energy will construction in Europe. It is a shared The subsea cables will connect all 160 be carried underground via an 11km cable investment between partners RWE Innogy, turbines to the two offshore substations route to a new substation near St Asaph Stadtwerke München GmbH and already installed more than eight miles off and fed into the National Grid. Siemens(1). North Wales in Liverpool Bay. The work is being carried out by UK based Reef Project progress Subsea Power & Umbilical Limited using Progress is well the Polar Prince vessel. underway with works on the underground Reef Subsea Power cable route and The £40m contract for the company, onshore substation which has offices in Stockton-On-Tees almost complete. Wind and Aberdeen, will see Reef Subsea turbine installation is Power & Umbilical assist with engineering, scheduled to begin project management, ROV (remotely from the Port of Mostyn operated vehicle) and survey operations on the Flintshire linked to the subsea installation and burial coast in April with first of all in-field array cables. generation expected in the summer.
Once fully operational, energy generation from Gwynt y Môr is expected to be equivalent to the average annual needs of around 400,000 homes(2). Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm Limited has awarded contracts worth more than £80million to companies in Wales.
Reef Subsea www.reefsubsea.com
Click to view more info RWE npower Tim Sheehan, Executive Vice President RWE npower renewables’ Gwynt y Môr Commercial of Reef Subsea, said: “We Project Director, Toby Edmonds said: are extremely pleased to be now working RWE npower renewables “The start of array cable installation is an offshore installing cables on the Gwynt www.rwe.com important milestone in the construction y Môr offshore wind farm. It has been a of Gwynt y Môr. 148 kilometres of 33 very complex mobilisation phase, which (1) Gwynt y Môr represents a total kV cable has been manufactured by the has demanded a significant amount investment of more than EUR2 billion, Norwegian company Draka and will be of pre-engineering work, major vessel shared between RWE npower renewables’ placed in the seabed to connect each enhancements and delivery of a new cable parent company RWE Innogy(60%); turbine to the offshore substations. plough. With the support of a very skilled Stadtwerke München GmbH, Munich’s team both onshore and offshore, we look municipal utilities company (30%); and “Half of the wind turbine locations already forward to continuing the installation of all Siemens(10%). have foundations installed and the array 161 inter-array cables throughout the rest cables will be connected to the transition of the year and into 2014.” (2) Energy predicted to be generated by pieces before the towers, blades and the proposal is derived using wind speeds hubs are placed later this year. Array monitored cable installation is scheduled to continue throughout 2013 and into 2014.”
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Tata Steel cuts the costs of renewable energy
Following a recent £2 million operational space at their own premises OPC and we are actively involved with a investment to develop integrated, and reduces stockholding and working number of developers, working together steel processing facilities in the North capital costs. to identify the best steel solution for their East, Tata Steel is working together projects. with its customers to cut the costs of Ideal location renewable energy. The OPC is ideally located on the North East We are confident that close co-operation coast, with good sea, rail and road links for throughout the supply chain will identify Offshore Processing Centre (OPC) efficient delivery to customers throughout opportunities to minimise costs and The Hartlepool-based OPC manufactures the UK and Europe. The Tata Steel increase productivity; key to building a tubular sections used in the fabrication workforce reflects the engineering skillset of successful offshore wind industry in the of jacket foundations and includes state the region, with the site playing its part in a UK.” of the art cutting, bevelling and profiling key network of industries in the area. machinery. Through early engagement with TATA Steel designers and engineers, Tata Steel can Richard Bell, Director, Energy and www.tatasteel.com help customers to optimise the steel usage Power, Tata Steel, says: “As a leading in a project and identify potential cost steel maker and manufacturer, we are Click to view more info savings in steel foundation structure design. committed to building partnerships that enhance our customers’ performance by The semi-processed steel products are providing effective project management, then despatched in batch quantities, in line engineering expertise and products and with a customer’s build sequence. This services that create value. We have approach enables fabricators to fully utilise already booked our first order for the
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TAG Energy Solutions The story continues...
TAG Energy Solutions have been experienced engineering “In particular, the offshore renewables featured within our publication for a professional Mike Foster sector has the potential to be very number of years now we have been becomes tags new Chairman successful for companies such as following their progress with interest. He was, until 2011, Chief Executive TAG, which offer effective supply chain Officer of FTSE 250 company, Charter solutions. As activities in the sector They are one of the leading companies International plc where he had been on gain momentum the opportunities for in the industry who have invested heavily the board since 2000, initially as a Non- UK suppliers should grow considerably in the future of offshore wind energy and Executive Director, before becoming CEO creating a positive future for our industry.” are already reaping the rewards. Not only in 2006. this but they have been instrumental, with Working together with Principle the assistance of NOF Energy, in setting Mike has been the Chairman of listed Power (Europe) Ltd up the ‘Energi Coast’ group in the North companies in India and South Africa, and The company is working alongside East to ensure the area, as a whole, takes is now active in a range of Non-Executive international renewable energy technology commercial advantages which the industry roles and industrial early stage companies. developer Principle Power (Europe) Ltd, can provide. who is developing innovative floating A University of Cambridge graduate in support structures for offshore wind We feature a number of initiatives within Engineering and Electrical Sciences, a turbines. this extended article on the company, its solicitor and a Fellow of the Association management and its progress... of Corporate Treasurers, Mike has an WindFloat System award extensive background in engineering Principle Power Ltd has been awarded management. £689,630 from the Department of Energy Mike Foster and Climate Change to advance the After graduating he qualified as a lawyer development of its innovative WindFloat and worked for GKN plc in law and System for the use in the UK market. corporate finance, before moving to Trafalgar House and Kvaerner where TAG Energy Solutions will provide he was responsible for the Kvaerner engineering and manufacturing support Engineering and Construction Division. for the project, which will identify and accelerate the suitability of the UK offshore During his tenure as an executive with wind supply chain to construct and deploy Charter International plc, the company’s UK-specific WindFloat systems. turnover trebled and the profitability increased more than 500% in the period up to 2008.
Bringing a wealth of experience Alex Dawson, Chief Executive of TAG Energy Solutions, said: “Mike brings a wealth of operational and board-level experience, which will be a huge asset to TAG Energy Solutions. Working with our board and the management team, Mike will support our ambitions to become a preferred supplier to the offshore renewables and oil & gas sectors.”
Mike Foster said: “I am very pleased to become Chairman of TAG Energy Solutions. Alex and his team have established innovative engineering and manufacturing systems that are attractive to the energy industry and I am looking forward to being part of the future of the business.
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It primarily produces monopiles, transition pieces and jacket foundations for offshore wind turbines and has recently been awarded a contract to deliver 16 x 60 metre foundations and transition pieces for E.ON’s Humber Gateway wind farm.
Alex Dawson said: “Our facility demonstrates our desire to be at the Innovative features leading edge of manufacturing for the The innovative features of the WindFloat offshore wind industry and we are dampen wave and turbine induced delighted to work alongside Principle motion, enabling wind turbines to be sited Power (Europe) Ltd on the development in previously inaccessible locations where of its WindFloat innovation. water depth exceeds 40m and wind resources are superior. “This project is important as it’s essential that the sector maximises opportunities The project is expected to identify a to exploit innovation and advances in region-specific WindFloat design for the technology that can increase the energy UK market, rather than a design which harnessed from offshore wind resources changes for individual projects. in deeper waters, in a cost-effective manner.” In addition, the project will develop serial manufacturing processes which will result Principle Power’s CEO, Alla Weinstein in an industrial construction scheme said: “This DECC funding will allow capable of producing the WindFloat Principle Power to advance the design design to meet the cost needs of the of the WindFloat specifically for the market. UK market, with focus on meeting the Offshore Wind Task Force levelised cost Teesside-based fabrication of energy targets. facility The engineering and serial manufacturing “The WindFloat’s innovative features allow study work will be undertaken at TAG offshore wind installations, independent of Energy Solutions’ 170,000sq metre water depth, where the wind is stronger Teesside-based fabrication facility, and more consistent. The WindFloat which utilises state-of-the-art production eliminates the need for seabed-disturbing processes. foundation structures and can be sited to avoid conflicts with other marine uses.
“The WindFloat offers considerable economic advantages because it is suitable for serial production manufacturing and on-shore commissioning of the a fully assembled system - floating foundation and the turbine.”
CONTINUED...>
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TAG awarded E.ON’s Humber Gateway offshore wind farm contract E.ON and TAG Energy Solutions announced recently that TAG has been awarded a contract to manufacture 16 monopiles and transition pieces for E.ON’s Humber Gateway offshore wind farm.
First UK manufacturer to secure Congratulations a substantial monopile and Edward Davey, UK Secretary of State for transition piece project Energy and Climate Change, said: “I want The contract will see the Teesside based to congratulate TAG Energy Solutions on manufacturing firm become the first UK becoming the first UK manufacturer to manufacturer to secure a substantial secure a contract of this kind for a wind monopile and transition piece project for a farm in British Waters. I hope that they are wind farm in British Waters. An additional the first of many. 60 people will be employed to deliver the CONTINUED...> contract. “The development of a thriving UK supply chain is vital to support our rapidly-growing offshore wind industry. The Government is working closely with industry to help fulfil its ambition to source at least half of all project content from within the UK. This will help build the lasting legacy of a strong domestic offshore wind manufacturing capability.”
Tony Cocker, CEO of E.ON UK, said: “We’re extremely pleased to be able to work with TAG on this very important next step in the construction of our Humber Gateway wind farm and to support local businesses in this way. I welcome TAG on board and hope that this is just the beginning of our organisations working together.”
Alex Dawson said: “This high profile contract represents a UK Round 3 sites Preparation work for the manufacturing significant achievement in TAG Energy “With nearly 55% of UK Round 3 sites of the sixteen, 60 metre long, 650 tonne Solutions development and the important having water depth of greater than 40 monopiles and associated transition role it plays in the manufacturing of meters, project developers and utilities pieces will begin immediately at TAG components for the offshore renewables can realise significant economic benefits Energy Solutions’ state-of-the-art sector. We are very pleased to be working from WindFloat systems and reduced production facility on the banks of the with E.ON and this award demonstrates complexity in their project contracts. River Tees. we have the skills, products and Principle Power will be working with TAG capabilities to serve the offshore wind Energy Solutions, its project partner, on The first steel is expected to arrive in industry.” defining methodology for the WindFloat March and the contract is planned to be serial production using UK based completed by quarter four 2013. industrial infrastructure.” Humber Gateway windfarm E.ON’s £736 million Humber Gateway windfarm, situated 8km off the Yorkshire Coast close to the mouth of the Humber Estuary, will consist of a 73 turbine array that will generate up to 219MW of electricity, enough energy to power up to 170,000 homes.
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Construction on E.ON’s Humber Gateway is well underway, with first foundations He added: “We are in the unique expected this summer, and completion position of being the first, fully prepared due in 2015. British manufacturer to provide volume monopiles and transition pieces for From creator to Founder UK wind farm developments. E.ON Creator of the TAG Group of companies, has demonstrated its confidence in David Eason, has stepped down as TAG Energy Solutions and British Chairman, to pursue other interests. manufacturing and we are very proud to David has agreed to remain in the role of be part of one of the country’s flagship Founder and will continue to support TAG windfarm developments.” as its founding shareholder.
Major David has been succeeded as Chairman milestones by experience engineering industry David first created professional Mike Foster featured in more the TAG group detail at the beginning of this article. of companies in 2006 and was Investor gratitude for courage responsible for and foresight several major David continued, “I am grateful to TAG’s milestones investors at Platina and ETF for having in TAG’s the courage and foresight to back the development vision that we had for TAG in 2010 and including the I am delighted to continue to remain re-generation of involved with TAG as its Founder. I its Haverton Hill am pleased to welcome TAG’s new site in Billingham, chairman, Mike Foster, and firmly the successful believe that his knowledge, experience award and and understanding of the industry will construction be a significant benefit to TAG and its of offshore management team.” projects and the successful Sam Goss, Investment Director at Platina pursuit of inward Partners said “On behalf of TAG, its investment management team and its investors, I’d to build its like to thank David for his contribution to automated TAG over many years. TAG is pleased tubular production that David has agreed to remain in the facility that saw position of Founder in order that it can TAG re-focus rely on his support.” its business to be able to meet TAG Energy Solutions Limited the demand for www.tagenergysolutions.com offshore windfarm foundation Click to view more info structures.
Local industry champion A champion of local industry and with a long history of having created employment and opportunities throughout Teesside, David said “I am delighted with all that TAG has achieved over the years and its on-going success is of paramount importance to me. Having redeveloped the Haverton Hill site from its humble beginnings to the fantastic, state-of-the- art facility it is today and put in place the world-class management team it now boasts, it is something I can take huge pride in.”
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Leading the way for bolting service to the renewable sector
In the constantly changing landscape Aberdeen and Ireland the company of the wind power industry, turbine has worked hard to build a wind energy Engineering a Solution design is being taken to new levels in network to provide fast service and quick Although most torque tool manufacturers order to maximise efficiency. Larger turnarounds in every area of the British rely on existing technology, in-house has parts with tighter tolerances are being Isles. The new UK head office is located a designated CAD-design centre which used, higher quality materials are in Cramlington. The new premises have is available to provide 3D drawings of demanded, reliability is essential, and been designed with the expansion of the products and/or customised solutions. cost-efficiency is a must. renewable industry in mind, with over These drawings can be integrated into 10,000 sq. ft. of space to the turbine design/manufacturing process Wind turbine assembly to allow manufacturers to reduce design HYTORC has been involved in turbine time and minimise unknowns during the assembly since the early days assembly process. of the industry, and has invested heavily to stay With an emphasis on safety, trained ahead of the curve on house wind power specialists will facilitate its progression. This its training communication between the turbine can only be achieved facility and manufacturer and the HYTORC design by implementing industry centre to optimise production processes the new techniques approved and to help alleviate assembly line and products from calibration bottlenecks. In one example, a custom the company that and service fixture was designed to reduce assembly make wind turbine centre. time for the shrink disc application. manufacturing and maintenance Dedication This application had previously taken simpler, faster and While most torque tool manufacturers up to nine hours, which slowed the more cost effective. merely supply tooling through their manufacturing process for the entire normal distribution network, the turbine. HYTORC delivered a custom Experience company discovered a need for reliable designed solution which reduced With over forty years of experience in equipment and, more importantly, manufacturing time for the shrink disc to industrial bolting technology, HYTORC dedicated, knowledgeable wind energy just one hour. is the world’s oldest and largest representatives. In the early stages of manufacturer of hydraulic and pneumatic the renewable industry the company As the inventor of the first hydraulic wrench, torque wrenches. They are dedicated to responded by hiring specialists that had the company has been behind nearly every providing the highest level of customer worked in the wind power industry and innovation in the bolting tool industry. Their service by continually developing new were familiar with the many different latest tooling includes the most innovative products to make bolting jobs as safe manufacturers of wind turbines. The next developments to improve safety and liability and hassle-free as possible. More and step was identifying the different obstacles with the benefit of accurate bolt loads more specially designed tools are used that each manufacturer was facing during within 2%. This is achieved using the daily in the wind industry than all other turbine assembly and/or maintenance patented ‘hands free bolting’ technology. brands combined. The products are CE, and working together with their highly Within the range of bolting solutions we TUV & ISO 9001:2000 approved and the experienced engineering staff to provide a have special wind tooling which can be company understand that the renewable solution. operated hands-free, giving maximum sector is different in attitude to other power safety to the operator. generation sectors and have responded In the last five years alone, kits have been with a unique approach to supplying developed for nearly every application customers. on the various turbines offered by every manufacturer in the industry. With Local Support and Service specialist engineers available for free on- With its local presence in the North East, site supervision and training in nearly every country in the world, the company has offshore trained personnel to assist with the development of easier systems and methods of bolting and are constantly looking to build on their reputation for reliability in the industry.
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The Long Haul The UK team decided they could not Being the largest supplier of torque service the wind industry unless they equipment in the world, the company became dedicated to that industry. Unlike combines supply of tooling through our many others, they are not part-time. They outlets for hire and purchase. Their UK have diverted their resources to meet the facility has the largest quantity of available different challenges that breaking new hire and purchase equipment. They have ground can bring. dedicated tool kits available on request for most wind turbine manufacturers. One The projects they have been involved of the benefits of working with the largest in have taught them the standards and most respected tooling supplier is this industry is demanding now the flexibility within their hire and purchase and what it is likely to demand in options. This, alongside their guarantee the coming years. of customer satisfaction, with extended and ‘no questions’ warranty on tooling The company have been providing high quality products with cost the leaders in introducing effective service solutions. dedicated mobile service vans to the industry with the Projects latest service & Along with the design of tooling for manufacturing Hytorc UK wind have been at the forefront of bolting improvements within the renewable industry assisting in major onshore and offshore projects with great success.
These bolting lmprovements have been made possible by the company working with different agencies and construction teams to improve applications such as cable protection systems, foundation transition pieces, tower bolts and nacelle bolting issues. calibration Their latest hands-free bolting technology is technology not only used by Renewable Test centres onboard. The They are learning more and more on a daily worldwide, but has been installed on some mobile van unit basis and their willingness to persevere of the latest turbines being brought to the is available for on-site with the challenges associated with the market. repairs and calibrations. renewable market, leaves them ready to meet changing customer demands. All the facilities including the mobile workshop provide safety training HYTORC programmes. This initiative was a large www.hytorc.co.uk investment, which was led by the need to service the customer in remote locations.
EXCITING TIMES The exciting thing for the Hytorc Wind Team is that although they are only at the beginning of an era, they are already an experienced unit.
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Small wind sector As well as large projects, North Energy has always had an interest in the small wind sector, and has helped a number of off-grid projects in Northumberland and County Durham to generate power onsite, from renewables, including the installation of 2.5kW and 6kW wind turbines in some of Planning the most remote areas of England.
The Cassop School 50kW wind turbine was one of North Energy’s early projects. for success In 1990/2000 the company developed the Gazelle wind turbine, a 20kW grid North Energy Associates Ltd has a North Energy connected turbine, 24 of which are installed long track record in the wind industry. North Energy has become a well respected around the country. Started in the early days of the UK independent consultant in the field with work wind industry in 1991 in Morpeth, around the UK in addition to the North East. Northumberland, the company initially The iconic Glyndebourne wind turbine, Extensive experience worked on site-finding for developers (illustrated, courtesy of Mark Bridges) on North Energy’s skills pool for the wind and several of these sites have now an outlier of the South Downs in East industry includes extensive experience become wind farms, such as Kiln Pit Sussex, was a project which North Energy of planning and EIA, production of Hill and Middlemoor. was involved with from its inception. After photomontages, noise, shadow assessing the estate and selecting the site, flicker, heritage and residential amenity First planning consent followed by extensive environmental impact assessments and planning statements. The team applied for and obtained the first assessment work, public consultation and planning consent in the North East for an the planning submission, North Energy took Case Study: Planning for a 225kW inland wind farm, at Tow Law in County the project all the way through public enquiry turbine at Hexham Racecourse Durham. After undertaking considerable until consent from the Secretary of State Client: Hexham Steeplechase Company public engagement activity, the application was achieved! Site: High Yarridge, on a ridge south of went through planning committee without Hexham, immediately to the east of the a single dissenting voice! Many years later Specialism racecourse this area is now a wind farm hotspot. North Energy’s particular specialism is the Aim: to be the first carbon neutral combination of technical wind expertise racecourse in the country and to and wind planning and the teams also generate income to ensure its economic masterminded the site design, EIA and sustainability planning application submissions for two large wind farms in the Selby area which are still in process. Currently they are in demand for site assessment, optimising siting and impact assessment/planning for single turbine Feed-in Tariff wind developments.
Two planning applications and one appeal are in process, for sites in the region and several projects in the pre-submission stage in County Durham, Lincolnshire and Angus.
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Planning process... • Assessment of the potential for a turbine on the landholding followed by selecting the most appropriate turbine for the site in terms of output and scale Consultation in the landscape Following internal and external consultation • Identification of constraints – ecology, by the NCC planning team the planning archaeology, aviation and Ministry of officer‘s report to Planning Committee Defence radar, telecommunications, concluded that the application should be and visual impact issues – the site approved. More evidence was provided on the is near the historic town of Hexham, special case why the benefits of the turbine in the Green Belt and less than The application was however refused by both in terms of carbon saving and also 2km from the North Pennines Area of the Planning Committee on grounds of of economic benefit to the racecourse, outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visual impact on the AONB, Hadrian’s outweighed the local impacts on the Green • pre-application consultations with Wall and the historic core of Hexham and Belt and AONB. The whole process was Northumberland County Council, because the committee considered that not guided by the planning lawyer from Squire followed by EIA screening resulted in a enough evidence had been presented to Sanders of Leeds and the submission was decision that an EIA was not required, demonstrate a special case for the turbine made by them. but detailed survey and assessment to be sited in the Green Belt. This was a of impacts was. The NCC planning huge disappointment to the client and the State of Play team were open-minded to the proposal North Energy team as the signs had been The council’s response is awaited and • Maps showing Zone of Theoretical good up to that point. if necessary North Energy will provide Visibility produced by North Energy responses to their arguments. The and viewpoints agreed with NCC for Next steps – Planning Appeal Inspector will then weigh up the case and photomontages A meeting with a planning lawyer, make a site visit. • photomontages prepared by North experienced with wind projects, was set Energy were discussed with NCC up and concluded that there was a very Finally he will report with a decision, • A year of surveys and research found good case to fight. It was clear that the probably in Autumn 2013. no overriding reason why there should NCC reasons for refusal did not stand up not be a turbine in the area selected at to scrutiny, particularly as they went against Dr Garry Jenkins the east end of the racecourse the professional advice of the Council’s North Energy Associates Ltd • technical assessments by North own planning, landscape and heritage www.northenergy.co.uk Energy and other local specialists were teams and even national written up to accompany the planning protection bodies such application, including Landscape and as English Heritage and Visual Impact, Ecological, and Aviation Natural England had not Radar impacts. A comprehensive objected to the proposal. planning Statement prepared by North Energy’s planning policy expert, Representations showed how the project fitted local and Written representations national planning policy were prepared, • planning application pulled together background reports and submitted along with specialist updated and additional reports, plans, site layout map and work on visual impact copies of consultation responses proved that it was impossible to see the turbine from Hexham’s historic core or from Hadrian’s Wall, apart from minute glimpses.
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South Sharpley No particular individual has a right to a Visual An increasingly common issue is visual view, but there comes a point by reason amenity associated with residential of proximity and size of a turbine where a properties and local panning authorities residential property would be rendered so residential are refusing projects on these grounds. unattractive, as a place in which to live that One such example is at South Sharpley planning permission should be justifiably amenity where Durham County Council issued a refused. The key test is whether viewed refusal notice concerning three turbines. objectively, in the public interest, would a seeing The refusal notice alleged that the property become an unattractive place in proposed development would have a which to live. significant adverse visual impact on specific through the residential properties. The applicant (REG Carland Cross and Burnt House Windpower) appealed against this decision Farm Inquiries issues through written representation. This test was applied at the Carland Cross and Burnt House Farm Inquiries. Clearly, The Coalition Government’s Localism No clear guidelines there needs to be a degree of harm over Agenda is filtering down to local Commercial wind farm development will and above an identified substantial adverse communities who feel empowered inevitably cause some local visual effects effect on a private interest to take the case to comment upon proposed local for nearby residential properties. Despite into the category of refusal in the public development. Some members of the much ill-informed rumour, there are no clear interest. public have strong views concerning guidelines about the minimum distance wind energy development and object from a property within which a wind turbine Residential Visual Amenity Study to applications, seeking to influence may have an overbearing affect. (RVAS) both the relevant Case Officer and also A detailed RVAS was prepared for the members of the planning committee. A review of appeal decisions does assist South Sharpley appeal to examine to what in providing some useful benchmarking extent local properties would be affected. concerning the distance within which a The appeal decision for South Sharpley turbine will be seen as being overbearing. was issued in April 2011. In allowing the The matter can be forensically analysed appeal, the Inspector was satisfied that by undertaking a residential amenity the proposed development would not assessment which specifically examines unacceptably harm the living conditions of particular properties and their relationship nearby residents. This demonstrates that with a development proposal. A number of whilst there can be substantial opposition key militating factors need to be considered from local communities, careful examination when assessing whether a turbine will of the facts can clearly demonstrate that have an overbearing impact on any given there would be no unacceptable harm residential property. upon residential visual amenity.
Andy Cook/Paul Burrell Pegasus Group www.pegasuspg.co.uk
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56 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE South Tyneside College South Tyneside College’s Marine semi-submersible rigs in the North Sea given all our delegates the option of Safety Training Centre is one of and ran fishery patrol and survey vessels benign or wave conditions, all requested the foremost training facilities in for the Environment Agency. He joined the motion. I have no doubt that this is the the UK and has been developed to college 13 years ago. better option. provide the most realistic training environment possible. Graham explains... Observations To ensure the safety of employees, I Video footage from inside transfer vessels Within their training pool area there is an believe a review of the training standard or from fixed cameras on installations eight-seater helicopter escape module, is urgently needed within the marine show that transfers are taking place helicopter winching arrangements, davit- safety industry for transfer from vessel to routinely in large wave conditions and launched life raft equipment, a range installation. that individuals are transferring without of marine and aviation life rafts, survival adequate training. Comments from suits, life jackets and associated survival More realistic but controlled and safe delegates on boat transfer courses re- equipment, and an offshore platform training is required than is currently laid enforce this point. transfer simulator. The centre also has a down by Renewable UK (RUK) and the jetty which provides mooring. Europe-wide Global Wind Organisation Training providers across the country offer (GWO), the two safety accreditation height training. This intensive instruction bodies. takes place at a realistic height and over two days offering training for a task that is Industry questions in the main predictable and controlled. To start that process, two questions should be pondered by our industry and Unpredictable its regulators as they seek to give their However, the transfer to or from a ladder employees the best possible training and to a vessel around the shores and further fulfil their duty of care. out to sea in European waters is far from routine and is unpredictable. 1 Is transfer training in what can be described as ‘benign’ conditions doing Sadly, RUK and GWO require us only to anyone any favours? do training that is carried out in the flat calm and for only a very short period of 2 How many days a year are the wind time, with no emergency scenarios or and sea conditions around Europe’s rescues practiced. shores so good that a transfer to or from an offshore turbine can be called No mandatory guidelines benign? Fortunately, neither organisations’ guidelines are mandatory and at the Experiences request of individual companies we I have experienced a transfer in near carry out training as realistic as possible perfect conditions on Burbo Bank but, to those witnessed around Europe’s with the ever present risk of bow waves coasts in our 4m-deep, 18m by 10m from passing ferries and other vessels, environmental pool by using our variable nothing should be taken for granted. wave pattern generator, as well as wind, rain, light and sound effects. A large, practical seamanship area is In the early days of RUK, a large number equipped with a wide range of shipboard within a sea survival working party argued Urgent need equipment and models of ships’ structures against transfer training in unrealistic It is because of RUK and GWO’s and devices. Other accommodation conditions, those conditions which fail to unrealistic guidelines that a review of the includes modern classrooms and meeting match how it really is in the water. training standard is urgently needed. This rooms. is an industry that is growing rapidly, is It was noticeable that those most in favour in the public eye and can attract adverse urgent need for a review of of this were those who were unable to publicity - and has no excuse from not standards control the sea or water conditions and learning from industries that have worked Graham Johnson is Head of School at who would have been at a disadvantage with the sea for decades. South Tyneside College’s Marine Safety if the standard had dictated a set wave Training Centre in South Shields. He is height transfer requirement. Graham Johnson a professional mariner to rank of Master South Tyneside College and has worked around the UK’s coast Having delivered transfer training to a www.stc.ac.uk in tankers, supply boats and anchor major European company which specified handlers. He also spent two years on transfer in wave conditions, and having
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existing freight facilities, which include its Ayrton Railhead, North Sea Supply Base and Dawson’s Wharf quays on the Intermodal rail adjacent River Tees. terminal signals AFSO accreditation and Government endorsement Dawson has also gained AFSO new era on the Tees accreditation to handle goods for The terminal – named the TRIP – is transportation through the Channel Tunnel A new era in container freight has the first phase of AV Dawson’s £10m which expands the potential for a direct begun on the banks of the River Tees infrastructure expansion and follows a 25 rail route from mainland Europe, through in the North East with the opening per cent increase in its container business the tunnel to Riverside Park. of the £2.6m first phase of a new at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Park. intermodal rail terminal by one of the The Government has already given a country’s leading logistics firms. Companies using the new rail terminal will ringing endorsement of the development now benefit from a direct link to the East by investing £1.2m through its Regional Tees Riverside Intermodal Park (TRIP) Coast Main Line as well as to Dawson’s Growth Fund (RGF). The RGF funding has
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allowed 32 jobs to be created – ten of Extensive growth plans which have already been filled – and will Gary Dawson, Managing Director of AV safeguard 150 jobs. Dawson, said: “The new intermodal rail terminal is just one part of our extensive State-of-the-art rail terminal Deepwater quay growth plans and it’s fantastic to see the The state-of-the-art rail terminal has rail On the adjacent riverside site work has also vision we have for the company start to sidings capable of handling trains carrying begun with piling works being carried out become a reality. up to 80 containers at any one time with for the new £3.2m deepwater quay which 54,000 square metres of operational will see the quay’s depth increased from “The RGF funding will have a tremendous area and storage for up to 1,200 loaded 4m to 8.5m and length extended by 150m. positive impact on our company, on containers. the wider supply chain and make an The company has also purchased an important jobs contribution on Teesside. Subsea energy market additional six acres of Network Rail land The investment comes as the logistics firm next to the TRIP terminal to expand its “From our perspective, the terminal is enjoying unprecedented demand from container offering with phase two works, further strengthens our ability to move the subsea energy market. including drainage and concrete surfacing, goods quickly and efficiently and save also underway. our customers money in the process.” Since 2011, Dawson has won business with another four offshore support companies and the business is moving towards a 24/7 operation on the quayside to meet the needs of its growing list of clients.
Gary added: “The offshore sector is starting to recognise the North Sea Supply Base as one of the premier facilities on the East Coast.
“We are experiencing an unprecedented level of enquiries for quayside and associated warehousing and open storage land and a lot of these are related to the energy markets, both traditional oil and gas, and more recently in renewable energy, particularly relating to offshore wind.
“The new quay will support these clients’ growth ambitions and confirm that their decisions to enter into long term agreements with AV Dawson were well advised.”
Heavy lifting capacity The company’s lifting capacity has also been boosted with the investment of £2m in a new Gottwald harbour crane. It is capable of lifting up to 100 tonnes and complements Dawson’s other two mobile harbour cranes, the heaviest of which can lift 215 tonnes.
AV Dawson www.av-dawson.com
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AV Dawson subsidiary company Cockfield Knight
Cockfield Knight are long established shipbrokers, shipping agents, customs and documentation agents specialising in dry cargo , project cargoes and offshore vessel support, and are located on the North Sea Supply Base in Middlesbrough on the River Tees. Strategic alliances projects including the completion of a Customer focused service However Cockfield Knight work major contract in the Port of Tyne on the The company offers a very hands-on independently as agents and cover all Brae gas pipeline. customer focused service where no ports in the North East UK and have task is too difficult to ensure the efficient established strategic alliances with other Cockfield Knight turnaround of vessels. They are a agents to offer global port representation. www.cockfieldknight.com subsidiary of major terminal operator and freight logistics company AV Dawson, Project success Click to view more info and as such work very closely with the Cockfield Knight have organised AV Dawson North Sea Supply Base site complicated project cargo and ship staff, providing the added benefit for their movements and have gained experience customers of a large supplier base. in operation of major scour protection
accommodation on off shore platforms, which, as a result, has increased Tees Valley Coatings dramatically the amount of work TVC has Tees Valley Coatings is based in the secured and completed. North East of England on the AV Dawson site in Middlesbrough, which Clients is perfectly situated on the banks Recent clients include Nexen, Talisman, of the River Tees. The company is Conoco Phillips and Stena, which has responsible for supplying specialist resulted in over 34 modules being and protective coatings to the off- completed over a 12 month period. shore, petrochemical, nuclear and marine industries. Investment They have therefore been in a position Accreditation to invest in their equipment and facilities, In December 2012 Tees Valley Coatings with their newest facility having a floor achieved the ISO9001-2008 quality space of over 700 metres squared and standard and has completed ICATS two 10 tonne cranes. This, along with our training for all personal working within its quayside location, has enhanced what coatings operations. This certification has the company can offer to existing and made a significant difference to both their prospective clients, enhancing a number clients and themselves, and demonstrates of current and future projects. the service and quality which they provide. Services range from blast cleaning, Tees Valley Coatings painting, refurbishment, thermal spraying www.teesvalleycoatings.co.uk and fire protection coatings. Click to view more info Increased demand Over the last twelve months Tees Valley Coatings has seen a rise in demand in the Oil and Gas Industries for additional
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Trailer hire business sees demand grow across the globe The trailer arm of specialist logistics firm AV Dawson has a substantial improvement in the quality and depth of our seen demand for its fleet grow across the globe following customer base.” investment of more than £1.8m in the business. Comprehensive fleet and flexibility Tees Valley Trailers The company boasts a comprehensive fleet including stepframe Tees Valley Trailers, which offers fully serviced commercial large double decks, curtainsiders – standard and tallboy – sliding and goods vehicle trailers for sale or hire, has seen its initial rental fleet tipping skeletals, flats with full specification, extenders and bulk more than double from 100 to 250 in the eight years since it was tippers. launched. Trailers can be hired on a short or long term basis and new At the same time, its specialist export arm is now seeing trailers equipment can be specifically sourced for long term contracts. despatched regularly to Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Burma. 50 years’ experience TVT works with small and large businesses across the country, From strength-to-strength mainly in the logistics industries, and its sales team has more Gary Dawson, Director, of Tees Valley Trailers, said: “We’re than 50 years’ experience. continuing to go from strength-to-strength. After a period of cautious growth, a recent investment of more than £1.8m Tees Valley Trailers has significantly increased the number and variety of trailers www.teesvalleytrailers.com available for hire. We’ve also undergone a substantial refurbishment programme to ensure that our trailers are Click to view more info exactly what our customers need.”
“An excellent effort by the commercial team headed by David Ormston and Jon Lambert has resulted not only in an improvement in the quality of our trailer stock, but also
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Supply Chain – Over 250 North Eastern companies with existing commitment or £110 billion of potential to diversify into offshore wind supply. World leading offshore and subsea investment expected engineering and manufacturing supply chain, backed by national and regional in UK waters by 2020 professional services cluster in Newcastle. Skills and Training – Highly skilled workforce serviced by specialist training Centres for Offshore Renewable The North Eastern CORE facilities at Siemens, Maersk and Shepherd Engineering (CORE) This is an important hub for worldwide Offshore. In England there are locations that have trade and investment, central to the UK’s been awarded CORE status by the UK economic growth for hundreds of years. Connectivity – Newcastle International Government. CORE status is awarded The North Eastern CORE offers: Airport is within 20 miles of each port through recognising the existing port Adjacent to largest Round 3 concession, infrastructure, skills and supply chain to Enterprise Zone sites with enhanced capital and accessible to Forth and Humber enable rapid growth within the offshore allowances up to £100 million, business sites. Two direct trains an hour to London, wind sector. rate discount and simplified planning at Edinburgh and the Midlands. the Port of Tyne and on the North Bank CORE sites of the River Tyne, at the Port of Blyth and The Tees Valley CORE England has six CORE sites: these are adjacent to Nissan’s Sunderland plant. A prime location for offshore wind the Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, the investment with long industrial heritage Humber, the Kent, the Liverpool City Three Ports and a track record for delivering large Region, the North Eastern and the Tees • port of Blyth offers strategic sites and scale projects in oil and gas, ship building, Valley. existing office accommodation, with fabrication and de-commissioning. well-established cargo handling, CORE areas provide... storage and distribution service for the Tees Valley’s main strengths are in its • Excellent infrastructure and logistics renewables sector and Enterprise Zone prime land availability and existing supply • Large amounts of available land for support. chain. Tees Valley has the world’s largest development including deep water www.berez.org.uk cluster of subsea cabling and trenching access • port of Tyne, the largest trust port in the companies, plus expert offshore fabrication • Skilled and available local workforce UK, offers 250 hectares of available facilities and also prime port sites ideally • Experienced supply chain land, 30 hectares carries Enterprise located for three of the world’s largest • Easy access to Round 1, 2 and 3 Zone status. offshore wind projects. offshore wind farms www.offshorewindtyne.com • Extensive business support available • port of Sunderland is well located for Ports • Local government support providing offshore energy investment with instant • pD Ports Hartlepool, 300 acres free location finding services and access from open sea to deep including sites with ECAs and simplified assistance on skills, premises and grant water river and dock berths, and planning. funding applications offers 115 hectares of waterfront land www.pdports.co.uk for development. • ABLE Seaton Port, 126 acres of land www.portofsunderland.co.uk with the largest dry dock in Europe. www.ableuk.com The National Renewable Energy Centre • ABLE Middlesbrough Port, 40 acres of Narec, is located in Blyth and provides the land with 200,000 sq ft of existing units national research, development, testing inc cranage. and demonstration centre for offshore www.ableuk.com renewable energy technologies. • North Sea Supply Base, Multimodal logistics centre. Financial Support – North Eastern www.av-dawson.com Infrastructure Fund available to secure • A&P Tees, Centre of Excellence for investment, job creation and economic offshore vessels. growth in the local area, £30 million growth www.ap-group.co.uk capital for investment and largest English regional venture capital offer.
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16GW of wind farm development within 90 miles of port sites – Dogger Bank (9GW), Hornsea (4GW) and Firth of Forth (3.4GW).
Tees Valley provides an excellent European base for exporting to the continent as well as accessing UK markets. It also has close proximity to supply into North Eastern CORE, Humber CORE and Scottish supply chains.
12 Enterprise Zone sites (423 hectares) with simplified planning and Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECA) up to £100 million – The Enterprise Zone encompasses a wide range of sites including a number with existing units (11 office and six industrial units currently available, plus 12,500 square feet of smaller units). The sites include both new and established business and enterprise parks, plus large cleared industrial sites with access to utilities, port services and logistics.
Logistics – Take advantage of the largest exporting port in England, PD Teesport, including many available deep water port sites perfect for offshore wind manufacture and operation and maintenance. Tees Valley also has the fastest-flowing urban traffic speeds in the UK, integrated rail connected port sites and three international airports within one hour.
Skills – Take advantage of first class colleges and universities specialising in engineering courses, combined with local industry training providers including TTE, NETA, Faraday Centre, Teesside Industrial Solutions, TWI and Falck Nutec.
Affordable workforce – Wage rates in Tees Valley are on average 10% lower than the UK average.
Major industry names already located within Tees Valley Heerema, MPI Offshore, Deep Ocean, Modus, Global Marine, IHC EB, Reef Subsea, VSMC, JDR Cables, MTE, EDF Energy Renewables, Tata Steel, TAG Energy Solutions, Tekmar, ALE, Hertel, Millfield Composites, Falck Nutec, Wilton Group, Able UK, PD Ports, AV Dawson, A&P and TWI.
With over 200 companies already in offshore wind, there are opportunities to locate within Tees Valley and supply into the existing supply chain covering all energy sectors.
The North Eastern CORE and The Tees Valley CORE www.gov.uk
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“Apprenticeships seem the best way to do this and we are very pleased that we will be able to take on 13 further apprentices this year who will be working towards recognised qualifications Record number of and learning about the world of work and the opportunities there may be for them in the future whether with the Port or apprentices planned elsewhere.”
Commitment for Port of Tyne With a 10.8% unemployment rate in the North East region the Port is committed to supporting projects that address skills and The Port of Tyne plans to more than treble its readiness for work to help improve young people’s chances of apprenticeships in 2013, creating new opportunities for employment. young people to learn the ropes right across the business. South Shields MP David Miliband said: “I have seen the This follows the success of the long established programme for difference that can be made by a high quality work experience engineering apprentices which the Port has operated for many years. placement that can boost a young person’s CV. The Port is setting a great example by bringing in apprentices across the Investing in people business and it will reap benefits not only for the Port but the Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne’s Chief Executive Officer, said: local economy as it is an investment in the whole community’s “Investing in our people and developing a highly skilled future workforce.” workforce is the key to future success. Last year the Port invested almost £1.3m in training and development. The Port has appointed South Tyneside College as its training Launching the biggest apprentice programme in our history provider. Lindsey Whiterod, Principal, said: “This is a fantastic is also indicative of the way we aim to support our local step by the Port of Tyne and we are delighted to be working community and in particular young people. with them in delivering the apprenticeship programme.
“As a major employer we’re committed to helping more young “This kind of commitment is exactly what is needed for young people in the area get a foot on the ladder to work. We have people, their future employment and the local economy. always had apprentices working in our engineering department The college has recently undergone a major transformation, and for the first time last year we had a business administration creating a very exciting time to be connecting with businesses apprentice. We also support many community programmes in the region like the Port of Tyne, and we are thrilled to be that help develop confidence and skills in young people.” providing the Port’s apprenticeships.”
How innovative utilised rope technology at a fraction of the weight. Bridon manufactured and supplied 65 of these ropes for the installation, rope products the largest of which has a 600 tonne safe working load capacity. are transforming Key to success Key to the success of Bridon’s Steelite range is its use of offshore wind farm Dyneema fibre. The strength to weight ratio of Dyneema fibre construction allows Bridon to manufacture lighter, Bridon International, the global technology leader in wire more malleable ropes and fibre ropes for demanding applications, is using without compromising innovation to transform offshore wind farm construction. on durability. This surpasses both In October 2012, Bridon supported RWE, one of Europe’s traditional steel wire leading energy companies, in installing one of the UK’s newest and conventional and largest offshore wind farms 18 miles off the coast of North synthetic fibre Wales. products for this application. Wind energy industry objectives In the offshore wind farm construction sector, safety is Steelite ropes can paramount and regulations are stringent. Typically, wind farm be up to 15 times installation has been conducted using generic steel rope stronger than steel products, but demand has been growing for industry-specific equivalents, but are rope solutions, in particular rope products which can match or 7 times lighter and boost typical support capabilities whilst reducing the potential for weightless in water. damaging delicate components (such as turbines) and structures For example, eight (such as blades). men are required to handle steel slings, Fibre rope slings whilst four men are In order to achieve these objectives, Bridon suggested that RWE required to handle employ its Steelite Xtra High Modulus Polyethylene fibre rope Steelite slings. slings, which boast equivalent working load limits to commonly
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Investors in People (IIP) award The Port of Tyne has also invested in its organisational infrastructure and is continuing to develop its employees through the introduction of a number of new initiatives including Performance Development Reviews for all employees and a Profit Share Scheme. At the end of last year the Port of Tyne achieved the Silver IIP, placing the Port in the top 2.5% of IIP accredited companies in the UK.
Expanding operations The Port’s apprenticeship programme is just one of the ways the Port is investing in the future of the business. Over £120m has been invested in developing port operations over ten years and plans are already in place to expand its operations in South Tyneside with a further £180m project which has the potential to provide 300 more new jobs.
Port of Tyne www.portoftyne.co.uk
Further benefits Deploying Steelite ropes for offshore windfarms is also a much quicker and easier process, with the risk of impairment to fragile components minimised, assembly times reduced and the lifting capacity of installational barges increased. Since employing Steelite ropes, RWE has witnessed corrective maintenance costs usually associated with wind farm construction disappear almost entirely.
Industry growth The UK’s use of wind energy is set to dramatically increase over the next few years as part of the Government’s renewable targets. The firm has already received production enquiries from a number of major multinational wind farm constructors and is planning a production schedule that will cater to the highest possible levels of demand.
Jon Templeman, Chief Executive of Bridon International commented: “The fibre constructions used in Bridon’s Steelite ropes mean they are both stronger and lighter than their conventional steel equivalents – making them easier to work with, reducing the need for regular replacement and ensuring the highest possible levels of performance.
“Bridon prides itself on collaborating with customers to find innovative solutions to the challenges they face, and that’s what makes us the global technology leader in manufacturing ropes for demanding applications.”
Bridon International www.bridon.com
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 65 SPONSORS OF TYNE & TEES FEATURE Able Seaton Port ABLE UK may be best known in wind attracting circles for their proposed large-scale development on the Humber – the Able Marine Energy Park but their strong principal Tees facility, Able Seaton Port, near Hartlepool is also attracting strong interest from a range of wind interest farm developers. Investment The former Laing’s Offshore Yard was acquired in 1996 and has seen some significant, and much needed investment in the interim. Able has developed 300m of heavy duty quays (40t/m2) and this, they say, makes them some of the strongest in Europe.
Says Neil Etherington, Able’s Group Development Director, “Able Seaton Port is pretty typical of the way we do business. It was all about taking a long term view. Something that we can do as a privately owned business and ASP certainly needed some tender loving care in the early days.”
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Expansion Over the last five years the Yard has expanded into Oil Rig upgrade and maintenance projects and boasts a pretty “We have put our money where our blue-chip client base that includes Ensco, mouth is (some £50m so far) and we are Petrofac, Transocean and Northern now seeing the rewards.” Offshore with a mix of jack-up and semi- submersible rigs. ASP history Up to now ASP is better known as a multi- The wind energy sector As Etherington says, “Without the right user facility that has hosted some of the Increasingly though, it is the wind port facilities the UK becomes a mere largest recycling contracts of recent times. sector that is dominating Able’s spectator – no UK content and no From the de-commissioning of most of characteristically positive outlook. economic development benefits – just the largest oil & gas platforms through to Etherington explains, “ASP is well a heavily subsidised sector that would the demolition of the so-called US ‘Ghost located and it’s almost as if it had been effectively export new jobs and new Ships’ along with the former flagship of purpose built as an Offshore wind manufacturing.” the French Navy, the aircraft carrier, Le installation base. Clemenceau. Able UK “We think it ticks all the boxes and a www.ableuk.com The latter was an experience that number of developers seem to share Etherington, rather coyly, merely describes that view. It’s still relatively early days as “interesting” although he added that it but watch this space. It’s certainly the was “a lot of smoke and mirrors clouded best facility in the north east and with the by a public perception that took a real potential that we have with the dry dock effort to turn around.” (Europe’s largest) is also tailor-made for gravity based foundations.” Probably a sentiment with which the wind industry can empathise. Integrated wind cluster Able see ASP as the ideal companion for the much larger AMEP development on the South Bank of the Humber where Patrick McLoughlin, Secretary of State for Transport, will next month (May) determine one of the UK’s largest planning applications and where ABLE are aiming to see the development of a truly integrated wind cluster.
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To quantify or not to quantify? that is the question... Practical examples of Quantitative Risk Assessments
In the last issue Risktec introduced Back to basics... The results of a QRA are numerical Quantitative Risk Assessments If we jump back to our second article on estimates for risk exposure that can (QRA). Here they continue their series Risk Management (June/July 2011), we cover the full range of consequence of articles on risk management by defined risk as being the product of the effects being considered (e.g. harm to asking; Is there a role for QRA’s in the likelihood of an unwanted event occurring the environment, plant/asset damage, Wind Energy Industry? (release of a hazard) and the severity of programme delays, cost overruns, etc.) the resulting consequences; but are most commonly used in a health
Probability of a blade Occupancy rate Probability of a Likelihood of blade landing at a specific at specific fatality from direct failure per year x x Risk of fatality as a location location impact of blade result of a wind turbine blade failure/throw
Risk =xLikelihood Consequence
Probability of loss of Gas concentration at a Occupancy rate Probability of a containment from blade Probability of ignition specific location at specific fatality from resulting impact [tank integrity] leading x x of release [gas dispersion] x location x fire/explosion Image courtesy of Infinergy Ltd to release of gas
Figure 1: Considerations for QRA of risk from Turbine Blade ‘Throw’ on adjacent Risk = Likelihood x Consequence and safety context to quantify risk to major hazard facility people and society in general, for example Whilst QRAs come in a vast array of by expressing risk as the frequency of shapes and sizes, performed using a fatality per annum. plethora of tools and techniques, in very simple terms it is a systematic technique whereby appropriate numerical values are applied to ‘likelihood’ and ‘consequence’ allowing the associated risk to be expressed in numerical terms.
68 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk RISK MANAGEMENT
2 Personnel transfer on/off an Offshore Wind Turbine. This is widely recognised as one of the more significant risks of offshore wind operations. Whilst a relatively simple hazard which could be assessed via deterministic means, a precedent has been set for the use of QRA for personnel transfers in the offshore oil and gas industry. With such a precedent comes considerable historical and predictive data on the likelihood and consequence of this So is there a role for QRA in the hazard. As a result, a simple personnel Wind Energy Industry? transfer frequency calculation allied to existing, appropriate data, may be Let’s consider three specific all that is necessary to assess this hazards: hazard via quantitative means.
1 Turbine blade failure and 3 Offshore Wind Farm Ship Collision Whilst these are only three very specific, subsequent ‘throw’. Study. anecdotal examples, they do indicate For the vast majority of wind turbines, Depending on the location of an that there is a role for QRA in the wind sited in remote/rural locations, the offshore wind turbine, it may be energy industry. However this is certainly consequences of such an event are necessary [unless the risk can be not a black and white issue. These relatively low. Here, simple deterministic discounted via qualitative means] to examples clearly highlight that the nature principles (e.g. compliance with design perform a detailed ship collision study. and scope of any QRA will vary hugely standards) will be adequate to Such a QRA will quantify the risk of based on a range of factors including; demonstrate this risk to be tolerable a ship colliding with a wind turbine. nature of the hazard and its development, and properly managed. However, if In so doing it will need to quantify the available information, existing precedents, we consider a turbine sited close to a likelihood of a ship impacting a stakeholder expectations, but perhaps large gas storage facility, the story turbine considering both passing and more crucially, what role the QRA is to is very different. Whilst a highly unlikely visiting vessels via ‘powered’ and play within the overall safety justification event, a ‘thrown’ blade could strike a ‘drifting’ collisions, whilst taking strategy. This must be fully understood vessel resulting in a loss of account of protective measures in before embarking on any QRA. containment leading to a gas release. place such as sea charts [provided Were this to be ignited it could lead turbines marked], radar visibility and Gareth Ellor to an explosion resulting in multiple facilities for monitoring and warning Risktec Solutions Ltd fatalities. Clearly a QRA is appropriate vessels in the vicinity. In terms of www.risktec.co.uk here which would consider a range of consequences, the QRA will need to factors as illustrated in Figure 1. consider damage to the turbine as However this need is not driven by well as the vessel itself. The evaluation issues specific to wind energy but of impact damage is likely to be rather the nature of the adjacent complex and require considerable facility. It is inconceivable that such structural engineering and marine a major hazard facility will not already experience to develop a correlation have a QRA as part of an overall between collision speed/energy and Facility ‘Safety Case’ and so the bulk damage. A breached oil tanker is likely of work is already done for you. A full to cause significant environmental QRA is therefore unlikely to be harm. Whilst this hazard clearly does necessary. A more simple comparison not exist within the wind farm, if of the probability of a blade strike inappropriately sited, a wind turbine against other existing known hazards could contribute to the release of this with similar effects may be all that is hazard, hence the associated risk needed to assess whether this new must be considered as part of the risk is tolerable. wind farm safety justification. Such ship collision QRAs are a standard element of any offshore oil and gas facility ‘Safety Case’, so existing precedents exist for risk tolerability which can be tailored to suit this specific application to determine whether the quantified risk is acceptable.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 69 LubricaTION & Filtration feature
Wind Turbines Lubrication &F iltration Tips
Whether onshore or offshore, keeping complex wind turbines operating at peak performance can be extremely challenging.
For wind turbine operators, choosing the right lubricants is essential as it helps prolong turbine performance and durability.
Recently, we caught up with Robert Pears, Industrial Lubricants expert, ExxonMobil Lubricants & Specialties, to better understand the lubrication and filtration needs of wind turbines.
70 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk LubricaTION & Filtration feature
“There are a variety of factors to consider Wind Turbines when making this decision, including the Q: Why is lubrication such an machine’s OEM cleanliness standards, essential component of wind filter micron size, beta rating and the kinds turbine performance? of contaminants being removed, be they Robert: “Wind turbine maintenance dirt, water or wear metals. Manufacturers presents an array of challenges that can must also consider oil flow and determine hinder productivity. the flow-rate of the pump moving the oil. Filter capacity has to either match or “The main gearbox drives the generator exceed the pump flow rate, to prevent and is the heart of a wind turbine. With filter malfunction or back-pressure build up. their advanced designs and overall propagate at a shallow incline to the importance to system performance, surface, forming extremely small pits that “Typically wind turbines are equipped gearboxes can be very costly and time may reduce gear tooth accuracy and with two oil filtration systems. The primary consuming to repair or replace after the lead to significant gear damage. system filters oil prior to delivering it to the warranty expires. gears and bearings. The auxiliary system “In addition to protecting against micro- employing finer filtration is designed to “For example, when factoring in all pitting and other forms of equipment augment the primary system, focusing expenses, replacing a gearbox for a 1.4 wear, Mobilgear SHC™ XMP 320 exceeds on maintaining the required system MW turbine can cost a company more the performance of traditional oils by cleanliness. A duplex housing should be than US $625,000, including the price of extending the interval between oil changes used as it allows for filter changes during a new gearbox, labour costs, crane rental from 18 months to five years or more. normal operation. and lost revenue from turbine downtime. Extended oil life translates into a variety of benefits, including reduced volume of “Finally, proactive filter maintenance “In remote locations like offshore, oil purchases, used-oil disposal volumes, is critically important. Maintenance maintenance and repair costs are likely maintenance effort and lubricant-related personnel should take routine samples to be even higher and after the warranty downtime for oil changes.” to determine overall cleanliness of the oil period or extended service contract and effectiveness of the filter. The filter period, the operator becomes responsible Q: Why does using synthetic should also have a tattletale—usually a for keeping the turbine running for the lubricants vs. conventional oils pressure gauge mounted in the housing— remainder of its service life. make such a difference in wind that indicates when the filter needs to be turbine applications? changed.” “For the main gearbox – just as for Robert: “Case-hardened gears exposed all pieces of industrial equipment – to unpredictable winds and high loads Q: What are the most common lubrication plays a vital role in optimising means wind turbines are susceptible mistakes made with respect to performance and minimising downtime.” to micro-pitting, and require a gear oil filtration? lubricant that protects against this type Robert: “Over-filtration is a common Q: What are the key challenges of wear. problem. facing wind turbine operators and maintenance personnel? “Upgrading to synthetic lubricants brings “While a filtration system is designed Robert: “Maintaining the performance a number of advantages, including to eliminate contaminants, removing and prolonging the life span of the longer equipment life, high-temperature excessively fine particles may main gearbox is the greatest lubrication capability and excellent resistance to negatively impact oil additive balance. challenge in a wind turbine. The most oxidation - which can help maximise the It is crucial to pay close attention to common cause of gearbox downtime is performance of wind turbines. the OEM recommendations for oil related to bearing failure. Considering system cleanliness, as exceeding that the variable load, high speed and “The extreme conditions wind turbines specification may actually hinder the dramatic temperature conditions wind are subjected to are easily endured by performance of the lubricant.” turbines operate under, bearings are high-performance synthetic lubricants, put under a significant amount of stress. which can improve film strength at Robert Pears These factors, combined with improper operating temperature by nearly 50 Industrial Lubricants expert lubrication, can result in the need for percent. By comparison, conventional, ExxonMobil Lubricants & Specialties bearing replacements, and if damaged mineral-based fluids cannot deliver www.exxonmobil.co.uk bearings are not replaced promptly, the same level of protection. These significant harm to the gear can occur. kinds of performance advantages can Click to view more info help companies generate significant “Another issue is the industry-wide drive bottom line savings and enable them to to minimise up-tower weight. It has maximise productivity.” resulted in compact gearbox designs which, in combination with high loads Q: What are the best practices found in wind turbines, means the for wind turbine oil filtration? surface-hardened gears are susceptible Robert: “There are several types of to micro-pitting, which can cause oil filters. The first step in identifying numerous surface cracks. The cracks the appropriate filter for a turbine is to determine what level of oil cleanliness is required for proper function. www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 71 LubricaTION & Filtration feature
Does not confuse air bubbles for particles Knowledge is profit! The oil in a WTG gearbox is whipped full of air. But unlike other measuring methods, learn how to lower your lost OCM 30X is not air sensitive. It measures the light’s refraction to monitor all kinds of production factor particles exactly; soft and solid, magnetic as well as non-magnetic. The rotor of a wind turbine generator With the data provided by OCM 30X, (WTG) will easily top 200 million you will not only get the earliest possible It completely ignores air bubbles, which revolutions in 20 years. warnings of gearbox failures and makes it the market’s most accurate component-specific problems. You will monitoring method for this purpose. Wear is enormous. Not least to the also get an in-depth understanding of gearbox where numerous particles are gearbox wear under different operation Predict and prevent gearbox released from the components to the oil. conditions. This will help you improve failure But if you monitor the size and number operation, maintenance as well as If you take a look at Figure 1, you will see of these particles, you can forecast rootcause analysis dramatically. In short, how OCM 30X monitors the number and serious problems, optimise operation and OCM 30X will not only protect your size of particles under different operation schedule maintenance well in advance. investment. It will increase your ROI. conditions. The graph is a readout from a 2 MW WTG. Small particles are the worst It is critical to monitor the The number of particles peak when occurrence of small particles the operation conditions change, such as size of 4 to 21 microns. filter replacement and cooling problems. The read-out from OCM 30X also reveals Their size and number reveal abnormal particle peaks that can’t be gearbox wear under different explained by changes in operation. These operating conditions, and thus peaks should be analysed carefully to the need for maintenance and assess degradation of components and changes in operation. When prevent breakdowns. particles above the size of 100 microns appear, it Online analysis is often too late to take In this specific case, all data was analysed simple preventative action. using cjconline.dk, and the customer was warned well in advance about an impending The degradation of the breakdown. Preventive maintenance was component’s surfaces scheduled, and the physical inspection is highly advanced. confirmed the readouts from OCM 30X and However, the OCM 30X is the analysis using cjconline.dk. the market’s only device that offers exact monitoring of Components were changed in time, and contamination from particles as small as the customer prevented an extremely 4, 6, 14 and 21 microns. expensive breakdown. One option is to employ the CJC™ Oil Contamination Monitor.
The OCM 30X monitors particle contamination as small as 4 microns in the air-containing oils of a WTG gearbox. You can collect all data from OCM 30X remotely and analyse them using either cjconline.dk or your company’s SCADA- system.
Profit from increased ROI With remote monitoring and sample response intervals as short as 20 seconds, you can collect data under all operating conditions, even when the WTG is inaccessible for physical inspection. Figure 1. Shows how OCM 30X measures the size and number of particles in WTG gearbox oil under different operating conditions. The graph also shows how OCM 30X monitors abnormal particle peaks that reveal wear problems indicating a future breakdown.
72 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk LubricaTION & Filtration feature
Tried and Tested C.C.Jensen commissioned the first OCM 30X in 2007. Since then, the oil contamination-monitoring unit has been installed in more than 50 WTG gearboxes onshore as well as offshore. ACMU Series production of OCM 30X began in the winter 2011-12, and 100 units have been ordered for delivery during Q1 and Q2 Auxiliary Contamination 2012. Monitoring Unit for The world’s leading WTG manufacturers and utilities constitute hydraulic & lubrication the largest part of the company’s customers. Using OCM 30X, they do not only benefit from fewer and less serious gearbox systems problems. Their most important advantage is the increased profits they get from a significant reduction in the WTG’s lost production factor.
Predict • Exact particle monitoring in WTG gearbox oil • Monitors particles as small as 4, 6, 14 and 21 microns • Non-air sensitive • Remote monitoring 24/7/365 • Monitor and analyse data with cjconline.dk or your SCADA system
Prevent • Earliest possible warnings and improved root cause analysis Incorporating the ICM • optimise operation effectively to reduce wear of the gearbox contamination monitor, • Identify component-specific problems and improve components the ACMU is specifically • Schedule the need for maintenance accurately • Reduce ‘fire fighting’ and quick fix solutions designed for aerated, • preventive maintenance instead of emergency repairs or viscous and/or breakdowns un-pressurized systems. • Change smaller components in time instead of heavy parts too late Key Sectors
Profit ● Renewable energy • optimise operation and reduce O&M cost ● Off-shore • Increase availability and reduce the lost production factor • Increase ROI and protect your investment ● Industrial / Test Benches / Gearboxes
Benefits
● Save downtime/ maintenance costs ● Proactive contamination monitoring
For further information contact [email protected] +44 (0) 1451 822522
www.mpfiltri.co.uk Condition Monitoring Division
CC Jensen Ltd www.mpfiltri.com www.cjc.dk Group Headquarters
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 73 LubricaTION & Filtration feature Failure prevention
that’s a breeze! for the gearbox manufacturers and presented a unique challenge for us. MP Filtri intended for offshore installation. At Turbulent, viscous flow promotes the the heart of the nacelle is the gearbox. ingress of air into a fluid. The nature of a key link in the Transferring high torque from the blades, optical contamination instruments can wind energy drive to electricity producing speed at the make them sensitive to entrained air and generator is what it does. Measuring in turn can affect the reliability of solid chain and maintaining this performance is contamination results. paramount, Emerging in many areas of hydraulics and that “We worked closely with existing (including gearbox applications), both is where and potential clients to eliminate the suppliers & customers are required to problem by suppressing air within assure component and/or fluid cleanliness a self-contained circuit, thereby before making procurement decisions. improving measurement, confidence In parallel to this, commercial & accuracy. With our range of filtration expectations are placing greater products and a solid customer service pressure on OEM’s to provide charter behind us, we are faced with a extended warranties on their fantastic opportunity to grow with our products. customers”.
Renewable Providing extended warranties energy Emerging in many areas of hydraulics Renewable energy has (including gearbox applications), been at the forefront of both suppliers & customers industry endeavour for are required to assure some time now, taking component and/or fluid the media spotlight cleanliness before for a multitude of making procurement reasons. The UK’s decisions. In parallel geographic location to this, commercial is conducive to the expectations are conditions necessary placing greater for efficient & pressure on OEM’s predictable electricity to provide extended production. Coupled with warranties on their commitment and financial products. Service tools backing by the government - wind energy Gloucestershire based company, MP Filtri like MP Filtri’s ACMU help deliver this. will play an important role in our future have stepped up to the challenge. energy production, with its deployment Collaborative innovation pivoting around key innovation and Collaboration Collaborative innovation is key if investment decision making in the supply chain. Working in collaboration with gearbox and project success are to be guaranteed. manufacturers and drawing from a history In this example the company highlights UK investment of expertise in contamination control, how the success of enormous, media The UK has invested significantly in recent MP Filtri have developed a range of spotlighted projects are as much about years, paving the way for what is now a instrumentation and filtration products, expertise and service further down the leading renewable energy centre (NAREC) culminating in the release of a product supply chain as they are through the efforts located in the North East of England. specifically designed for the turbulent/ of the OEM’s & facilities like NAREC. This enormous purpose built “laboratory” aerated conditions typical of gearboxes enables both the reduction of greenhouse and other industrial systems. Both ends of the scale are inextricably gas emissions in energy production and a linked. With success stories like this we foundation for improvements in reliability The ACMU (Auxiliary can surely look forward to prosperous, and safety. Contamination Monitoring Unit) sustainable energy for generations to come. The ACMU marries the company’s Life-blood established optical technology with a MP Filtri The life-blood for many of these systems range of communication protocols for easy www.mpfiltri.co.uk is the hydrocarbon based control fluids integration with user control systems. which facilitate efficient operation. A Click to view more info turbine that does not rotate is “dead in MP Filtri’s Project Engineer commented, the water”, a statement that is especially “Measuring contamination in this true for the monumentally large generators environment is desperately important
74 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk LubricaTION & Filtration feature
the attitude of some in the wind industry Look after your oil remains a complete mystery. I climbed to the nacelle of a turbine in Turkey about a year ago. The wind farm and your oil will manager had complained about the noise the gearbox was making. The gear had been recently re-installed after service by look after You! a local ISP. Half way up the tower I could smell the familiar smell of the burnt oil. A quick look at the oil sight glass revealed a Dave Moss Magnetic stick showing metal filings substance the colour of Guinness. resulting from metal to metal contact in from the gearbox. Opening up the inspection hatch and reaching inside to grab a handful of oil, the Moventas foul smelling, viscous, black substance in my hand felt more like grinding paste than gives some oil. When I asked the site manager if he had used new oil when he had re-installed sound the gear he assured me he had, however he had refitted the old cooler and hoses advice... taken off the previous gearbox and these had not been flushed.
Not uncommon Larger bearing cage/carrier metal particles in the This is unfortunately a not uncommon planetary section of the gear. Temperatures, situation and the debris from the old failed pressures, the gearbox gets fed straight into the new or RPM, and many recently serviced gearbox. other parameters are monitored Immediately the process of metal on metal and reported is restarted and the gearbox is doomed to 24/7, however oil an early failure. condition still seems to be forgotten or Conclusion neglected by many. The conclusion therefore should not just Why should this be be – “look after your oil and your oil when it is a basic will look after you” fundamental to the longevity of any But instead should be – “Look after the rotating machine things that look after your oil and they and it’s individual will look after you” component parts? In 1982 I qualified as a Marine Dave Moss Engineering Officer and went to work Oil degradation evidence Moventas in the engine rooms of a number of Working in service, I see gearboxes www.moventas.com ships owned by BI, OCL and P&O. returned for service and overhaul where it is clear that the failure root cause starts Click to view more info An early lesson with the degradation of the oil leading to At college, and whilst working in the the inevitable process of metal on metal engine room, one thing that was drummed contact between gear teeth and bearing = Click to view video into me was the importance of oil in surfaces. rotating machines. The phrase “look after your oil and your oil will look after As we dig out the metal dust, you” is as true today as it was all those filings and particles from the years ago. gearbox sump, we can see that little fines beget bigger Remote locations particles which in turn beget On a ship of course there is the luxury of a chips and eventually large team of engineers in the engine room on a pieces of bearing or gear teeth daily basis. In a wind turbine, especially if that we use as paper weights it is offshore, there is very seldom anyone in the office. to see, hear, smell or touch the operating plant. However we live in an age of remote Lubrication is key Big bearing cage/carrier, bearing and bearing condition monitoring and the senses of Other industries have known race chips and chunks. the engineer are replaced with sensors, for over a century that probes and monitors. lubrication is the key, however
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 75 Offshore Wind conference
Success of Yorkshire firms Richard in offshore wind industry Burgess highlighted
The success of Yorkshire businesses Renewables Network in winning work in the offshore wind Sam Pick, Business Development Director industry was showcased at a regional of the Humber-based Renewables supply chain conference. Network – which supports companies to enter the market – said: “In terms Offshore Wind: A Guide for of offshore wind, 2013 could be an Business important year for businesses in the Offshore Wind: A Guide For Business region. also outlined what the area’s companies need to do to help more of them secure “Key decisions are expected, particularly contracts in the sector. in connection with port-based developments, and global companies will Spencer Group Advanced Manufacturing be looking for local partners. Among those businesses that presented Research Centre (AMRC) at the supply chain conference was Staged at the AMRC, Rotherham, the “But what is also crucial to remember is Spencer Group – a specialist engineering hi-tech capabilities of the host venue, how work is already going on – especially firm which works across many different and the expertise of South Yorkshire’s with regards smaller-scale offshore wind disciplines. established manufacturers, were also key farms close to the east coast. themes of the event. Recently, the company, which has its “With strong case studies, the Offshore headquarters at One Humber Quays on The conference, organised by the Wind: A Guide For Business event Hull Marina, has won significant contracts Renewables Network and Footprint demonstrated this and how local supporting onshore electrical infrastructure Renewables and sponsored by Nabarro, companies can win contracts. work for both Dong Energy and E.ON, the was aimed at helping firms prepare for latter through CG Power. opportunities in offshore wind energy – “Hopefully, this message and conference which could become a significant part of the will help and inspire other Yorkshire- Richard Burgess, Managing Director of Yorkshire economy in the years to come. based businesses to gain a foothold in the Spencer Group’s professional services this dynamic industry. division, spoke at the conference.
76 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Offshore Wind conference
He said: “The event was a fantastic Reducing costs Speakers at the event included... opportunity to demonstrate not only that But firms have been urged to reduce • Sam Pick – Business Development which we have been involved, but also costs, ensure their workforces are properly Director, Renewables Network to speak to other firms about getting equipped and have the right accreditations • Richard Burgess – Managing Director involved in the supply chain. to meet the requirements of renewables of the Spencer Group’s professional developers. services division “There are many opportunities which • Andrew Morton – Account Director, will be available to many companies. Footprint Renewables Footprint Renewables Success will come not from just doing Andrew Morton, Account Director • Alan McLelland – Chief Executive, things better but generating step of green energy marketing company National Metals Technology Centre changes through innovation in our Footprint Renewables, said: “The industry (Namtec) approach to solving the industry’s demands the highest standards and is • John Britton – Director, Renewables challenges. truly global in nature. Network • Alison Bettac – Training Director, “We have a commitment to sustainability “This means local companies have to AMRC and really feel part of the growing and compete with those from overseas • Jonathan Cohen – Senior Associate, expanding renewables industry across and will be under pressure to offer Nabarro LLP the Humber sub-region. an approach that is innovative and is • tim Shaw – Partner, Nabarro LLP focused on cost-reduction, to have a • Richard Wright – Executive Director, “We are very much looking forward to chance of entering the supply chain. Sheffield Chamber of Commerce further involvement in what will become • Joanne Harvey - Manager, Institute of a key industry in the future of not just “Speakers at the conference described Supply Chain Management Hull, but Yorkshire as a whole.” their views on this and gave companies an insight into what capabilities and AMRC tour It is the second time the Offshore Wind: capacity they need to be part of the Delegates also enjoyed a tour of the A Guide For Business event has been offshore wind industry.” AMRC and the newly-developed staged in South Yorkshire – with the apprentice and training facilities. area’s strong manufacturing credentials Presentations said to be crucial to establishing a true Presentations at the event included an Footprint Renewables cluster of green energy suppliers across introduction and industry overview, details www.footprintrenewables.co.uk the wider region. on supply chain-led cost reduction and the use of technology and innovation to Renewables Network bring costs down. www.renewablesnetwork.co.uk
Click to view more info
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 77 SPONSORS OF legal eagles
The cost debate continues to rage concerning the relative cost of the various technologies, whether wind (both on and offshore) and other technologies including LEGAL nuclear. Wind energy In terms of wind power, onshore wind currently is a cost effective technology but there has been significant debate over whether we have enough land based EAGLES schemes. Planning approvals, at least in England, remain difficult, although it Andrew Jackson’S experience in the would seem the position is more relaxed renewable energy sector, and in in Scotland. particular the wind energy industry, There has for many years been great is significant and has helped many interest in the offshore wind industry and the Round 3 developments promise of our readers ensure progress and great potential. From a cost point of view offshore wind remains comparatively understanding in this extremely fast expensive and the industry is being tasked moving business environment. with targeting cost reduction at a time when the support mechanism through Contracts for Difference is uncertain. The We welcome them as sponsors of Whilst the developments in policy gave offshore industry is, in addition, plagued by our first Law feature and let Martin some comfort there is still uncertainty significant risks in terms of construction, Collingwood give us an overview to arising among investors as to how it would installation and operation all of which it start the ball rolling... all work in practice – the devil will be in the is seeking to minimise by technological detail as they say. advances. Wind & renewable energy developments Decarbonisation target Andrew Jackson continues to act for Renewable energy has seen significant One of the significant areas of debate several offshore developers in respect development in recent months and remains the absence of a decarbonisation of development issues and in relation Andrew Jackson has seen its involvement target in the policy proposals. The to the roll out of strategically important in renewables continue to increase. introduction of such a target is seen operating and maintenance facilities and by many investors as central to instil infrastructure to service the offshore The past year has seen significant confidence in the support mechanism industry and the development of onshore activity from central government through for the industry and create a long term wind farms. We have seen an increase in consultations, legislation and the issue of market. The question often asked is “what renewables related health and safety work, strategy documents. happens after 2020?” This is important both pro-active and reactive. given that the industry is proposing November 2012 saw the Energy developments which will be operating in Significant frustration Bill published and shortly after the the longer term – 20 to 25 years - and One message which is frequently relayed government’s Gas Strategy was delivered. investors need confidence that they will by the supply chain in relation to these The Renewables Roadmap was also have support throughout the period. projects is “when will it happen?” There updated. is significant frustration over the delay to Renewables Obligation implementation of projects, particularly Coupled with this there is the proposal for offshore projects in Round 3. These change from the Renewables Obligation to delays are, in part, caused by the lack of Contracts for Difference and no-one is quite certainty arising from government policy sure how that will work – detail again. and the reluctance of investors to commit.
78 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF legal eagles
Other renewable areas Delays to projects have been experienced in other areas of renewable technology for example, wave and tidal, although these arise from delays to grid connections, particularly in Scotland. This area of renewable technology remains in the development of commercialisation stage, but was boosted recently by the Renewable energy future announcement of funding in support of it. There is no doubt that in the future renewables and energy policy will The use of biomass continues to increase remain a significant source of interest with several schemes moving forward and development with many of the most notably at Drax. Andrew Jackson technologies reaching commercialisation. continues to advise in this area, where we Concerns remain, however, that the work on several different biomass related government does not appear to have a projects. We have also been instructed “Plan B” if some of its current policies do by biofuel producers and distributors in a not reach fruition. number of matters. Andrew Jackson remains at the forefront Green Investment Bank of these developments. The year has also seen the launch of the Green Investment Bank although not at a level and with the powers that everyone Martin Collingwood would have wished. The government Andrew Jackson Solicitors Green Deal Scheme has also been www.andrewjackson.co.uk finalised and finally came into force early in 2013. Click to view more info The renewable industry’s contribution to electricity generation continues to grow with nearly 12% of UK electricity coming from renewable sources, with wind being the dominant technology and also the most technologically mature.
Government commitment The government remains committed to having a mix of methods of energy generation including nuclear, fossil fuels with ccs as well as implementing energy saving and carbon reduction as a means of achieving its environmental targets.
Carbon capture and storage remains an area of debate and development with significant interest being shown and trial schemes being approved by the EU.
As a low carbon technology, nuclear could play an important part in helping to meet the climate change targets. The government is committed to a nuclear new build programme; nuclear generates around 19% of the electricity but all but one reactor is due to close by 2023. There have been significant withdrawals from the nuclear build programme and capital cost of new stations is problematic.
2012 also saw the use of fracking to release shale gas as a new ingredient in the mix.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 79 SPONSORS OF legal eagles
Renewable Energy Contracts a brief overview Contracts for the provision of Initial visit to site and initial • provision of information between client goods and services leading to the discussions and customer commissioning and maintenance of • Outline Services – site assessment, • Delivery and risk transfer in the goods a renewable energy system, be that measurement, planning application, • Confidentiality and intellectual property a wind turbine, hydro turbine, solar outline of goods and services, initial • Llimitation or exclusion of liability as far installation, Biomass system, etc all return on investment ideas for parties, as legally permitted need careful consideration in terms of production of a report to lead to next • Assignment and sub contracting content and structure. phase • Force majeure i.e. unforeseen • Detailed Service – seasonal circumstances which may delay the Protection measures, specialist studies, detailed project The final Overriding Contract must specification of goods and services, • possible right for client to cancel protect the consultant from risk and detailed performance specifications contracts on consumer credit grounds reflect the factual process of leading re downtime etc, dealing with planning • other clauses into and procuring the project through conditions, details of project services feasibility, installation, commissioning and maintenance services, cash flow Most importantly the Overriding Contract and maintenance. On the other hand plan, production of a report to lead to must carefully regulate the progression of reasonable legal protection should be next phase the above phases between the parties, by afforded to the client as regards correct • Project Services – all services to specifically controlling when the individual duties of care for the services provided lead to installation and commissioning contracts for the individual phases arise and correct warranties for the goods and for utility company and network and are concluded, so the parties are free supplied, thus underpinning the provision operator involvement and takeover and clear to deal, if they both wish to, and of and performance of the system over • Maintenance Services – ongoing move onto the next phase. time. Also, the documentation presented maintenance re cost in use relative to by the consultant should be as clear, performance over time and avoidance Similarities to construction and concise and “user friendly” as possible. of downtime etc engineering contracts Renewable Energy Contracts are to a The above example is fairly basic and for large degree similar to construction and illustrative purposes only, but, from this engineering contracts in that properly example, it is important to appreciate that drafted they should control the risk relative each of these phases should give rise to to the best outcome in time, quality and a series of independent contracts working money. However, of major difference is incrementally forward on the project the lead in and project planning phases and working in synchronisation with the which are rarely allowed for contractors Overriding Contract to participate in (apart from quickly coming up with cost saving ideas and These incremental phases need to be value engineering etc) on mainstream carefully worked through between the contracting and engineering projects. consultant and the client and all need to be subject to an Overriding Contract between One major similarity does exist between consultant and client containing key clauses mainstream contracting and engineering relating to sale of goods and provision of projects and Renewables Projects. In services with particular care as to... that the more timely, quality and detailed the information, worked up at the outset, • Any selection of goods or design service relative to a detailed scope of services and • Commissioning goods for a clearly related price, the fewer • Charges and payment, warranties as claims, the fewer misunderstandings and Typical project to goods supplied for the benefit of the the better the job. Take a typical project for say, the provision client and any reasonable exclusion or of a wind or hydro turbine to a user like reduction of liability clauses for the Denison Till have many years experience a farmer. In this process, one might benefit of the consultant in drafting traditional engineering and reasonably expect a series of phases as • Financial arrangements including FIT construction contracts and have been follows... sharing and return on investment involved in drafting and negotiating formula after dealing with any domestic an increasing number of renewables consumption of electricity by the client contracts for wind turbines, hydro turbines • Grant of Lease and draft Specimen Lease and solar power installations. • Maintenance • timing for completion of installation Gareth Hevey, Denison Till • Planning and other statutory requirements www.denisontill.com
80 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF legal eagles multi-million pound wind farm for The Co-operative Group Bristol based national law firm TLT has The project is a joint venture between They have also been named Legal advised The Co-operative Group in The Co-operative Group Limited and the Business Awards 2013 National Law Firm relation to its 20MW ten wind turbine Ventus Funds, managed by Temporis of the Year, acknowledging the firm’s project at Biggleswade Bedfordshire Capital LLP. strategy and growth in Scotland and which is to be financed by the Northern Ireland and is ranked first of all provision of a multi-million pound loan Specialist renewable energy team UK top 100 law firms in Legal Week’s facility from The Co-operative Bank. The firm has a specialist renewable Client Satisfaction Report 2012. energy team consisting of legal experts in The law firm advised on the debt corporate, project finance, commercial, TLT financing, real estate, construction, and construction, environment, health & safety, www.tltsolicitors.com power purchase arrangements of the wind planning and property law. Their experts farm, which will power 18,000 homes and regularly advise on procurement techniques save approximately 36,800 tonnes of CO2 and strategies, project structuring and per year. finance and regulatory issues.
Longstanding relationship Maria Connolly, head of TLT’s Renewable Energy team says, “TLT has a longstanding relationship with The Co- operative Group having advised them on financial services and retail operations for a number of years. We are delighted to advise them on this project, helping the Group’s commitment to develop renewables projects.”
Rob Ellis, Development Manager at The Co-operative Group says, “I have been impressed with TLT’s expertise and efficiency to complete the deal within the tight deadlines.”
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to capitalise on the potential of renewable energy. SMEs could be losing out on vital UK on the cusp of a income as projects can languish in the planning system for years until approval is awarded. These decisions often come new energy era too late for small scale businesses keen to benefit from the revenue generated by wind With the British Government for change. Despite the increase in wind turbines in farms or factories. Alternative committed to generating 13GW power output, planning hurdles associated forms of energy are being readily used with onshore wind turbines by with applications are blocking potential for to power businesses, but more support 2020, changes are afoot. further wind turbine utilisation. is needed to assist and develop SME ambitions. The country’s bold targets could be at risk of failure. Fresh thinking must be applied Funding the future before the momentum slows and Britain’s Tackling planning backlogs requires renewable energy hopes become a missed collaboration. For example, last year in opportunity. Scotland the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities and Heads of Planning Scotland The National Planning Policy came together to create a fund to deal with Framework (NPPF) wind turbine application bottlenecks. The There are two main pitfalls to successful £300,000 assigned was welcomed and kick- renewable energy deployment in the UK: started numerous projects across Scotland. planning and financing. Strategies like these are exemplary and The National Planning Policy Framework similar incentives can be introduced (NPPF) has been introduced to ensure throughout the whole country. Onshore planning efficiency. Its main function is turbine applications are at an all time high, to oversee and support local planning but these developments do not come to Ambitious targets authorities’ plan-making and decision-taking fruition as quickly as hoped. If funding was These wind power targets are certainly functions. readily available to form specialised teams ambitious but foundations are being laid now of wind turbines planners, the backlog of to make the transition into renewable energy Time is money applications would be significantly reduced. smoother. Recent statistics published by the While the framework has aided planning Department of Energy and Climate change officials, eager applicants are not feeling ‘Tax per project’ scheme indicate that the amount of clean electricity the benefits. Currently medium sized A ‘tax per project’ scheme could support generated for UK homes, businesses and turbines can take up to 24 months to the highly skilled and specified flying squad factories has increased significantly. Figures pass the planning stage. Despite this of planning professionals, who are focused reveal that wind energy output improved by a improvement on previous timescales, it still solely on speeding up the renewables third in 2012, when compared to 2011. falls short of what is needed. As the old planning application process. This has adage goes, time is money. come to fruition on a small scale, but there Embracing renewable energy needs to be widespread commitment and These figures indicate that the country is Capitalising on potential support from local authorities, right through embracing renewable energy and is ready There is a real dynamism in the SME sector to government level.
to defend the claim at the hearing in UK - Challenge to wind farm December. development in High Court High Court decision The decision of the High Court to dismiss quashed the claim and uphold the planning permission was welcomed by RES as RES UK & Ireland recently succeeded groups sought to quash the decision being the right result obtained in difficult in defending a statutory challenge to to grant planning permission for both circumstances, and vindicated the planning permission that had been developments on cultural heritage decision to continue with its defence granted for its proposed wind farm grounds. despite the Secretary of State’s development, known as “Jack’s withdrawal. Lane”, in North-West Norfolk. Expedited hearing An expedited hearing of the claim was RES Project Manager Helen Wilson said: The challenge secured in order to minimise the delay “We are very pleased with the decision, The challenge, which also involved a and uncertainty on the project. Despite which supports the Planning Inspector’s nearby wind farm development proposed the Secretary of State withdrawing from view at the inquiry last year. We are by E.ON, was brought by two action the proceedings, and agreeing to the absolutely confident that the wind farm groups who resisted both planning permission being quashed a week before will be a positive asset to people living applications at the Inquiry stage. The trial, both RES and E.ON continued around it.”
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BOTTLE NECK This would not be to advocate any Red Electrica de Espana. These results passed by local authorities. While this is a less robust a review of applications, indicate the Spanish government is following hugely positive development, there is room but would ensure they are reviewed by through on its ambitions to reduce carbon for improvement. appropriate specialists and would avoid emissions by boosting wind power. wind applications and any other planning The country is blessed with a wealth of application becoming bottle-necked in the The UK can emulate the success of the likes natural resources which must be utilised same queue. of Germany and Spain lessening loopholes to our advantage. In order to convert our in the application process and increasing renewable capability into energy, local Continental edge funding available. and national authorities should lessen Our European neighbours are trailblazers the administrative burden for applicants in renewable energy use. In Germany, Wind of change to ensure the UK does not miss out on a planning law restrictions are reduced as Planning hold-ups are hampering the UK unique opportunity to change the energy incentives are increased. Japan’s Fukushima from becoming a centre for renewables landscape. nuclear disaster encouraged the German excellence. government to take action. It has upped Tim Pitt the pace at which it is phasing out nuclear Trade body RenewableUK indicated more CMS Cameron McKenna energy in favour of renewable power. applications for onshore turbines are being www.cms-cmck.com
Germany The process of closing power plants, named Energiewende, led to the closure of eight plants last year. The glaring effect of this activity is that wind turbine suppliers with bases on the continent have a growing market in their back yard and have less reason to ship to the UK.
The German renewables market is mature and developed. The country is a major player in renewable energy, ranking in third place after only China and the USA. A healthy number of large renewable energy firms have operations there, with the focus on future growth.
Spain For the first time ever, Spanish wind farms produced more electricity during the last three months than any other variant form of power source. Over six terawatt hours of electricity was delivered in January according to the Spanish Wind Energy Association,
Helpful illustration This case is a helpful illustration of the fact that the court, even when faced with a change of position by the Secretary of State at a late stage of the proceedings, will focus on the merits of the arguments put to it. Hopefully this will provide some comfort to anyone faced with a similar set of circumstances in the future.
Eversheds’ Will Densham and Kate Poole advised RES UK & Ireland Limited in its successful defence.
Eversheds www.eversheds.com
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Delegates Driving down costs But the big talking point from speakers at the conference, supported by the flock to hear European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), was the desperate need for supply chain support through cost- inside track on effectiveness, ingenuity and innovation to meet government targets and keep down energy prices.
energy Biggest energy event Around 400 people were at the first day of the Sea of Opportunity conference, Hopes for new business generated The turn-out and extensive media with 290 at a gala dinner and more than by the offshore windfarm boom and coverage delighted Simon Gray, Chief 500 attending the second day, making it a new North Sea ‘gas rush’ attracted Executive of organisers EEEGR (East of the biggest energy event of its kind ever a record-breaking 500-plus delegates England Energy group), who said the staged in the region. to the SNS2013 Conference at Norfolk region’s energy trades group had become Showground, Norwich, recently. ‘a local base with a global face.’ Opportunities Speakers from across Europe outlined opportunities created both by the resurgence in the natural gas industry in the Southern North Sea and plans for massive offshore windfarms.
But Torgeir Ramstad, Managing Director of Fred.Olsen Ltd, echoed the views of most when he warned: “The key factor is cost and if we do not address that, the opportunities may never happen.”
Uncertainty in the UK already meant that Germany would move ahead in the race to produce energy from windpower.
Mr Ramstad said that with bigger windfarm sites and larger turbines in deeper water, further from shore, costs had to be kept down through innovation, technology and efficiency.
84 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk EEEGR SNS Conference
Dogger Bank development An example was the first of two suction- installed foundations - known as bucket foundations - developed by a Fred.Olsen related company and currently installed at the Dogger Bank site to support met masts.
Dogger Bank is being developed by Forewind - a consortium comprised of international energy companies RWE, SSE, Statkraft and Statoil.
Continuing move into Joint venture renewables Scottish Power is in a joint venture with Halfdan Brustad, from Statoil, Vattenfall at the East Anglia Offshore Wind brought delegates up to date zone, off the Norfolk coast, which could on the energy giant’s continuing ultimately generate 7.2GW and create move into renewables as joint 2,600 jobs. developer of the Dudgeon windfarm after completing But Mr Mortimer felt the principal focus for Sheringham Shoal off the North all was to reduce the cost of energy from Norfolk coast. the current figure of £160 per megawatt- hour, down to the government target of He said they would award £100 by 2020. major contracts from 2014, with construction likely to start in Stephen Ward, from Areva Wind UK, 2015 and operations from 2017. agreed that inspired thinking was essential “There will be opportunities to meet a Government demand to keep for the supply chain in the down the cost of electricity in the UK. UK and as we look for more Every supplier was under pressure to sophisticated turbines and all reduce costs without compromising work towards a drastic cost safety. reduction.” Main sponsor Platform for Innovation Perenco was main sponsor for the The first day of the conference conference and the 80 stand exhibition. Lee Clarke, Forewind General Manager formed a Platform for Innovation with told the conference that 7.2GW of speakers looking at some of the industry’s electricity would be generated from future needs. EEEGR the first six phases of Dogger Bank, a www.eeegr.com windfarm the size of North Yorkshire. From Sid Anverali, Commercial Manager Each would cost £3-4bn with construction of SSE, came a hope for greater access Click to view more info due to begin in 2017 if the political and to offshore turbines, restricted to just financial climate were suitable. 30% during much of February. Prevention of marine growth and bird scarers for helidecks also called for some bright ideas.
Improved access methods to offshore locations were also on the mind of Alan Mortimer, Head of Renewables Policy at Scottish Power. Futuristic thinking was called for on design of turbines and their foundations, and also the wake effect on them.
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Experience innovation & dedication brings workers in the OffShore Wind Industry home safely
Transferring technicians from boats 50 years experience Training and technical to turbines is an inherently dangerous Being permanently installed close to the assistance procedure, requiring the worker to tideline, and with many working parts, this Backing up all the products and systems climb from the front of the boat on to calls for a highly engineered system built to with the highest calibre training and technical a vertical ladder. withstand the punishing sea environment. assistance is imperative to bringing every Learning from over 50 years of block worker at height home safely. Maintenance often takes place when manufacture and putting safety and environmental conditions are not ideal and innovation at the forefront of every product Capital Safety it is common for transfers to take place designed, has made Capital Safety the www.capitalsafety.eu in waves of over 2m. The safest way to global leader in supplying blocks for this protect the worker is to attach to a ladder- environment. Click to view more info mounted fall arrest block during transition. Ingress Protection (IP) By sealing their blocks with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of 68, the block can withstand complete and continuous submersion in water without any moisture entering the moving parts. It is inevitable that the cable will carry water back into the device as it retracts, however, this will still not affect the mechanism as it is fully sealed from the cable housing. Any damage to the cable and the Fastline system can be quickly replaced in the field using a minimum of tools.
Some operators are using non-sealed blocks on the basis that they can absorb the cost of replacing them after only a few years’ service. Open to the environment the functionality of these kinds of blocks cannot be assured, the risk exposure in this kind of policy is greatly increased. Furthermore when an unsealed block seizes, as it is prone to do, the turbine can no longer be safely accessed, outages become prolonged and revenue is lost.
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companies begin operating across multiple Managing Director of Safety Technology, countries it has been identified that this Bob Dickens, said on the recent As turbines standard needs to be recognised globally, accreditation “We are delighted to to give companies the security of knowing achieve multiple RenewableUK GWO get higher employees are trained to a universal high accreditation. We have worked closely standard in safe work practices. with GWO members and RenewableUK so do the over the last couple of years and the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) implementation of a Basic Safety Training risks In 2011 the GWO standard was set up by standard has long been our goal. It will the industry’s leading wind turbine owners enable us to deliver the same high quality and manufacturers, to ensure an injury- accredited training in different locations work at height safety free work environment for construction and countries that will be recognised by and operation in the wind energy sector the industry’s major wind companies and Falls from height remain one of the globally. This Basic Safety Training Wind Associations”. most common causes of fatality comprises of five modules, one of which and major injuries in the workplace, focuses solely on Working at Heights Safety Technology can offer this combined being the cause of 14% of all major safety in the Wind Energy sector. accreditation for Working at Heights safety workplace injuries in 2012 according training from both their headquarters in to the HSE Annual Statistics Report. Safety Technology is among a handful South Wales, and NAREC’s training facility of training providers who can now offer in Blyth. Further facilities are located in If we then look at the environment for modules from this Basic Safety Training Great Yarmouth, Europe and the USA. workers in the Wind Energy sector, throughout the UK, including Working at where wind turbines can reach up to 110 Heights, Manual Handling, First Aid and Safety equipment for working at metres, the importance of high safety Fire Awareness. heights standards for working at heights is further Safety training is not the only string to emphasised. Accreditation Safety Technology’s bow; the South Combined with the company’s Wales based company also offer a range Safety Technology RenewableUK approval Safety Technology of fall arrest and rescue equipment for Safety Technology is one of the country’s can provide joint GWO and RenewableUK working at heights. leading working at heights safety accreditation for work at height safety specialists, and face the challenging task of training to the sector. Their extensive range includes products developing safety courses and equipment from industry leaders such as; Cresto, to meet the ever expanding and evolving Skylotec and Fall Safe, as well as their industry of wind energy generation. own product range Sirocco by STL®. The Sirocco by STL® collection has Global safety standard been designed and manufactured As a RenewableUK approved training by the company to meet the specific provider, the company delivers nationally requirements for working at heights in the recognised work at height safety courses Wind Energy sector. which are continuously being developed to meet the unique and changing demands Through working closely with technicians of the wind farm environment. in the field, the products have been This recognised safety developed to incorporate unique features programme works to ensure the safety of users when well in the UK, working in and around wind turbines. but as more and more Fully certified inspection and maintenance of all equipment supplied can also be conducted from Safety Technology’s facilities.
Looking to the future To guarantee the wind industry remains a safe place to work it is vital that companies such as Safety Technology continue to develop and maintain a high quality of training and PPE for individuals working at heights.
By ensuring the safety of the work force the industry as a whole can continue to grow.
Safety Technology www.safetytechnology.co.uk
88 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF Height & Confined Spaces Work Safe Working at Height Falls from height continue to be the one of the biggest safety threats in wind farm construction projects and wind farm operation and maintenance practices. Therefore it is vital to use adequate procedures and apply appropriate practices to prevent incidents and accidents.
+44 (0)3333 441113 A new ApproAch to AviAtion impAct Assessments... • pre-planning site assessments • Field surveys (accurate quantification of impact) • Full aviation impact assessments • impartial, expert advice from professionals with 20+ years’ experience in communications engineering & Air traffic management
Because measurement is better than prediction.
Aerostat surveys Ltd. +44 (0)3333 441113 Risk assessments & method statements www.aerostat.co.uk [email protected] The method of access must be appropriate to the height, location, conditions and task undertaken during the installation and maintenance of wind turbine. The risk assessments should be carried out and safe work instructions should be written and communicated to the people involved in advance for any work performed at heights regardless of the methods chosen. Any risk assessment/method statements should be prepared by a competent person in accordance with safety requirements and must be regularly reviewed to ensure adequate safety measures.
Equipment use In the event that mobile elevated working platforms are used, they must be serviced, and maintained regularly for use by a competent person. It is utmost important that suitable attachment points are used to secure fall protection. When ladders are used for working at heights, they must be secured to prevent fall while in use and kept in good condition when stored after use.
Personal legal duty If it is you who is required to work at height regardless of chosen access method, make yourself familiar with the risk assessment/ method statement of the access method to work at height. It is legally required for any employer to ensure that all requisite safety risk assessments are carried out and purpose fit equipment is used, it is your legal duty to check that you are given safe equipment for working at heights.
If you find a situation in which the risk to your safety is unacceptably high, you must stop work and demand safe working conditions to be put in place for safe working at heights.
ABS Group Ltd www.abs-group.com
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at height and safety training required for working in wind turbines. I’m now looking forward to getting started Jennifer blazes a trail in my new role and having greater responsibility in the industry. I hope I in offshore wind can show other women that a career in the wind industry has many opportunities Maersk Training in Newcastle is Not an unique situation for and is an interesting and challenging celebrating after welcoming its first Jennifer option.” female delegate through the doors – a Being the only woman on the course was trend the company hopes will start not an unique situation for Jennifer – her Jennifer secured her role at Siemens in a new influx of women into the wind master’s degree in Aero-Mechanical Newcastle as part of its much-prized two- industry. engineering had fewer than 10% of year graduate programme, where she women on the will work in a number of the company’s course. But businesses, including within Siemens entering a sector Energy sector. with relatively few women did not Opportunities for graduates deter Jennifer, Dave Milne, head of Service Technology who was making at Siemens Service Renewable said: “We a clear career are delighted to be able to offer a wide choice. variety of experiences and opportunities to graduates, such as Jennifer and also She said: “I to all our employees. Siemens invests chose to study heavily in skills and training and is engineering at committed to diversity to get the best out university due to of its people. We work closely with other the high demand engineering employers and organisations for engineers to address the engineering skills gap and in industry and getting women interested in engineering hence the career is part of this approach. Jennifer is fully opportunities that embracing the opportunities she has in Jennifer Menmuir would follow. I working within a growing and changing had an affinity industry. She has great potential and is a for maths and great asset to the team.” science related Jennifer Menmuir subjects in school and I wanted to join Stuart Cameron, Managing Director Jennifer Menmuir, a Siemens graduate the energy industry. The wind power at Maersk Training in Newcastle, said: trainee, aged 25 from Falkirk in Central sector is expanding at a massive rate “Numerous studies show that women Scotland was the first woman to complete so having the chance to be involved in make an important contribution to a two day specialist working at height this technology at a relatively early stage any company’s bottom line and those course with Maersk Training Newcastle, was ideal. Working both in the office and organisations with women in the which equips delegates with the climbing on-site up a turbine is an exciting and boardroom and in senior positions and other essential skills needed to work challenging work environment.” perform well. Currently the wind sector on a wind turbine. lags behind in terms of the number of Siemens graduate programme women working in the industry and we Siemens Wind Power training In January Jennifer completed the would like to see more females entering school Siemens graduate programme and gained the wind job market. Maersk Training courses are part of a permanent position as a technical Siemens comprehensive wind power maintenance specialist in Newcastle with “The global wind industry is experiencing training programme delivered from its Siemens Renewables Service - a world unprecedented growth and there are dedicated facility in Newcastle. Siemens leading global wind service business. many resulting skills shortages that need Wind Power training school, complete to be plugged. There is absolutely no with two fully loaded wind turbine Jennifer continued: “It’s a fantastic job reason why women can’t take advantage nacelles, training towers and electrical and with a high level of responsibility for of these opportunities too. It was very mechanical work stations trains over 300 developing methods to resolve technical refreshing to see Jennifer complete her wind technicians a year to work on UK issues on turbines. I feel I have the skills training and I wish her all the very best in onshore and offshore wind farms. to contribute well to the team and I enjoy her wind career. Hopefully her story will the working environment and the chance inspire others and we would urge any to travel around the UK and Denmark. female interested in entering the wind industry to get in touch.” “I’m currently getting grounding in the technical aspects of the industry and my Maersk Training training at Maersk Training and Siemens www.maersktraining.com Wind Power Training School is invaluable in giving me confidence with some of the practical job aspects – such as working
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The Master’s responsibility for shore workers
from risks and dangers on the ship or the installation and that of the contractors to co-operate and follow the Masters and crews instructions to ensure their own safety and avoid putting others at risk.
However, should any accident ensure involving the shore labour, it would seem that the owners cannot avoid the consequences of any negligence resulting from the actions of those workers while on the ship or installation.
SMS code For this reason it is essential that the SMS code that is in place for the ship or installation has a clear and concise section outlining these responsibilities and the procedure in place for them to be implemented.
Increasingly in the shipping industry, Ships rarely carry any information regarding Captain Michael Lloyd, MNM.FNI. as crews become smaller and ships HSE legislation and many may not have Marine Adviser become larger, the employment of any knowledge of this document. If this Mines Rescue Marine shore labour at sea and in port is is the case, most Masters are ignorant www.minesrescue.com increasingly more common. of any responsibilities they have to shore workers. Equally there is ignorance ashore, Click to view more info Strangely, responsibility for the safety of demonstrated by the fact that when some contractors or shore workers, whether the dry docks assume responsibility of all safety ship is at sea or in port or dry dock is a matters on the ship for their workers, quite grey area in the marine industry. often this is assumed to cover outside contractors employed by the dry dock for This assumption in many companies that work on the ship. contractors are responsible for the safety of their workers or that a port of dry dock Regardless of any ignorance of the can issue an indemnity stating they accept legislation all evidence points to the fact responsibility for safety of shore workers that the HSE would expect and hold the while on board the ship or installation is Master responsible for any breaches of very unsafe. HSE legislation. This is supported by common law which states that the Master The HSE and MCA Memorandum of is the ‘supreme authority’ on his ship, Understanding even when the ship owner, charterer or The two authorities have a memorandum employer is on board. of understanding that is mainly directed at a recognised division of responsibilities, Defining Responsibilities especially for investigation, however there Fifty years ago, Hopkins in ‘Business and are a number of implications from this Law for the Shipmaster’ wrote; memorandum that the industry should be “Stevedores and other contractors who aware of. The most important of these is board a ship as invitees and persons that the HSE is primarily responsible for who come on board as licensees for their enforcing legislation covering the safety own private purposes or as guests, are of shore based personnel and work all entitled to adequate provision against equipment supplied by the shore even pitfalls and traps. Apart from specific when working on a ship. regulations, the Master has a common law duty to provide such protection.”
This all leads to two separate responsibilities, that of the owner to protect the contractors or subcontractors
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 91 HUMBER RENEWABLES Humber’s renewables excellence Judges said the organisation has not only identified training needs within the industry showcased but also has shown a proven track record in successfully supplying candidates for at industry new and emerging careers. And renewables-related skills were also recognised in one of two new categories awards at the 2013 awards, staged at The Deep in Hull.
Companies working throughout the It is the second time the awards on and offshore wind supply chains event has been held, with the aim have been recognised at the second of highlighting the work already Humber Renewables Awards. going on in the fast-paced sector, which is increasingly a feature of Training, innovation and business know- the Humber’s economy. how were rewarded at the event, staged in Hull. The evening began with a video Humber-based marketing address from Energy Minister John Hayes. company Footprint Renewables organised the event and Praise for the area the headline sponsor was He praised the Humber region for communications provider KC embracing sustainable power, saying Business. it could lead to hundreds of jobs and a technology revolution. Awards Ten awards were presented Mr Hayes said: “Renewables already during the evening, presented by help to deliver energy security and green broadcaster Helen Fospero. growth. Across the UK, renewable technologies could create up to 150,000 Training provider HETA won the jobs across the country. Excellence in Renewables Skills and Training section. HETA, “I’m pleased to note many of those jobs which has sites in Hull, Grimsby and a significant amount of investment and Scunthorpe, trains for more are in your area.” than 160 companies in the area and, nationally, has the third highest number of wind energy apprentices. Renewables Trainee of the Year The organisation works with the likes of Adam Barnard from Grimsby, won the Ecotricity, RES and Centrica and can Renewables Trainee of the Year title. The claim to have supported the Humber’s 22-year-old works for Ecotricity out of a first offshore wind turbine technician, Mike base at Louth, servicing wind turbines Smith, who is now working out of Grimsby across the UK. He was one of three Docks. nominees from the company in the award category – the other two being 21-year- old Callum Evers from Grimsby and Joe Parkinson, 23, from Immingham.
Adam said: “We’re a good team and we give it our all. Green energy is definitely the future.”
92 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk HUMBER RENEWABLES
SMart Wind Award winners and sponsors SMart Wind, the consortium developing • best Renewable Energy Project or the Hornsea offshore wind farm off the Installation (sponsored by The Yorkshire coast, won the Engaging the Insurance Partnership) – Sirius Academy Community award for its Smart Futures • Excellence in Renewables Skills and programme. It is designed to forge lasting Training (sponsored by Arco) – HETA links between the local community and the • Renewables Innovation (sponsored by offshore wind industry. HBP Systems Ltd) – Tide Power • Renewables Start-up (sponsored by The Cobus Communications Group) – Humber Energy • Humber Renewables Champion (sponsored by Rollits) – University of Hull • Humber Renewables Small Business of the Year (sponsored by Smailes Goldie) – Pure Renewables • Humber Renewables Medium/Large Business of the Year (sponsored by KRL Group) – Spencer Group • Engaging the Community (sponsored by Spencer Group) – SMart Wind • Renewables Education (sponsored by Hull College Group) – Hornsea School & Language College • Renewables Trainee of the Year (sponsored by Mail News & Media) – Adam Barnard, Ecotricity
Humber Renewables Champion award The University of Hull won the Humber Renewables Champion award.
It has invested more than £1m in renewables research over the past two years and judges said it was “advancing the stature, potential and reputation of the Humber, both nationally and internationally”.
In a speech at the March 2013 awards, Footprint Renewables account director Andrew Morton said: “Bit by bit, we are seeing green energy emerge as a crucial part of the Humber’s economic landscape. Keynote Footprint Renewables In the keynote speech, Sean Royce, KC www.footprintrenewables.co.uk “This activity means it’s even more Commercial and Finance Director, said: important to pause, come together “Here and now, great progress is being once in a while and chart our region’s made. You know that because you’re progress. If renewables is a signature doing it. We have been a powerhouse for industry of the Humber, then it needs its the nation for generations. own awards event to match.” “In the future, we can power the conversion to a low-carbon economy, give the UK vital energy security, keeping the lights on as fossil fuels deplete and saving the planet for our children’s children.”
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 93 SPONSORS OF DISTRIBUTED WIND
Distributed wind Our readership may not have heard the expression ‘Distributed wind’. Julian Martin CEO, ICE Renewables (sponsors of this feature) explains... “Many of our customers in the agricultural and commercial sectors have high local energy demand whether to operate machinery or refrigeration equipment. Distributed wind energy production allows for energy to be produced at the point of consumption and allows the producer to directly offset local energy requirements and feed the excess produced back into the network to be consumed locally. This model is more efficient than centralised energy production as there is less energy loss across the grid.”
One year until digression hitting the Feed-In Tariff milestones for medium wind
With only one year to go until Specific detail the Feed-In Tariff (FIT) for Ideally a good site will have been wind is due to reduce, ICE identified with decent wind speed Renewables highlights some data, a wind study and sound financial key milestones to ensure backing. To hit the deadline the your wind projects stays on project should already be underway track to beat the 2014 April and ideally in planning or about to be reduction. submitted. It can take 6 weeks to get all the technical reports together for a Key dates planning submission, longer if further December 2013 studies are required. There are two key dates to remember. If by the end of Quality of submission December 2013 you have planning The better quality the submission, the consent, a valid grid connection better chance of understanding the offer and you have registered your viability of the project early on and pre-accreditation for the FIT, you avoiding planning delays. This decision will then be given a further 12 can be complicated further by a lengthy months to get your project installed Judicial Review process if you want to from the date of pre accreditation. appeal.
March 2014 If this target can’t be met, then wind projects will have to be completed and the turbine commissioned by the end of March 2014. Time is tight, the difference in the FIT rate reduction could be the difference between a viable and non-viable project, so it is important to understand the steps that need to be taken to beat the FIT deadline.
94 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF DISTRIBUTED WIND
9 Key stages There are 9 key stages to considering getting your project from inception to fruition.
1 Wind Assessments – wind assessments are often needed to get sound financial backing and to get the warranties on power curve. The time taken to do these has reduced to about 5 weeks with a virtual study
2 Planning Consent – a well-prepared submission will minimise potential delays
3 Grid Connection offer – this can take 3 months and could still give a connection date after the FIT deadline has passed as grid capacities vary across the UK.
4 FIT Pre-Accreditation – can be Over the last 18 months ICE Renewables registered if you have secured planning has installed and now operates and consent and a grid connection for your maintains 3.1MW of turbines and can offer site by the December 2013 deadline. support on your wind turbine project.
5 Finances – sound financial backing is paramount and, if using a bank, this ICE Renewables can take some months to approve. www.icerenewables.com Sign the wind turbine contract and pay the booking fee. Turbines can take Click to view more info from 4 months to 18 months to be delivered, which could affect the FIT deadline.
6 Discharge planning conditions – this can take 3 months.
7 Turbine build – this takes on average 10 to 12 weeks for a medium wind turbine. This includes turbine installation, electrical contractor, civil contractors, turbine installations, DNO works, turbine commissioning and is subject to key components being available such as transformers and DNO response times.
8 Commission your turbine – secure your FIT Rate before April 2014 if you haven’t got an approved pre-accreditation.
9 Making the most out of the FIT – make sure that you have good warranties, contracted operational figures, and an operation and maintenance contract to ensure you have well serviced, well looked after turbines generating the contracted performance figures.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 95 SPONSORS OF DISTRIBUTED WIND
which rewards producers of renewable energy for their contribution to the National Breezing into Grid. The latter are expected to recoup their investment fully within 4-6 years. Cornwall & Devon Minimal environmental impact Windcrop’s small wind turbine also Windcrop, the UK’s largest installer of small-scale wind turbines, has opened an features a patented design which has office in Saltash. minimum impact on the environment; the small masts are mounted onto a unique New options In both an environmental and economic piling system, avoiding the need for onsite The move will bring new options for investment opportunity, the company heavy plant or concrete. forward-thinking farmers and landowners can now sell and install a turbine for an seeking free renewable energy and investment of £20,000, with a unique buy- John Moore, said the firm was looking investment opportunities as well as back guarantee if the turbine does not forward to working with the increasing creating up to 30 new jobs. achieve the minimum energy generation number of Cornish and Devonian farmers after five years. and landowners interested in investing in, and benefiting from, renewable energy. Further advantages Windcrop also offers further advantages John said: “As we continue to expand for its customers with a complete energy across the UK we are looking to reach service: site assessors provide a full cost even more forward-thinking farmers and analysis showing potential savings and landowners who are interested in using return on investment, they take the stress a small piece of unproductive land to out of applying for planning by managing generate free electricity. The South West it all in-house and they install, service and is already renowned for its pioneering maintain the turbines, offering a choice of attitude with regard to green energy and service plans. we can now provide an easy, and swift, solution for people looking to utilise their Local employment land in this way.” General Manager, John Ainsworth, expects the firm to be employing 30 local people by the end of the year within their site assessment, planning and installation teams.
History and experience John said: “Windcrop’s system means Since 2009, Windcrop has already that we can get our applications installed more than 500 turbines through the planning system quicker, throughout East Anglia and Yorkshire and with a high rate of success. The team with Devon and Cornwall’s status as two is from the local area and we’re really of the windiest counties in Europe, the looking forward to working with farmers, company has naturally extended its reach smallholders and other landowners who to the South West. now have this new option to either buy a turbine as an investment and benefit Windcrop was founded by former Lotus from free electricity and payments from Engineering Commercial Director John the Feed-in-Tariff or have a free wind John Moore Moore in 2010 to make small-scale turbine installed and take advantage renewable energy more accessible. of the free electricity generated by the It earned its reputation by providing turbine for 20 years. John added: “Ultimately we will play fully-funded turbines with no capital a key part in helping to meet the investment required by the customer and “Our small wind turbines are specially Government target of generating 15 a guaranteed warranty for the 20 year designed to provide the least amount per cent of all the UK’s energy from contract. of concern in the planning process and renewable by 2020.” Windcrop has an in-house planning team Each turbine saves landowners an average who manage this part of the job for our Community engagement of £500 a year and Windcrop makes its customers. We then take care of the Windcrop will be working at the heart own return on investment through the entire installation process, as well as the of the farming community attending Government’s Feed-in Tariff (FiT) – a maintenance over the 20 year contract agricultural shows across the South West financial incentive to encourage the uptake period, making it easy and immediately this summer. The company will also be of small scale renewable energy. beneficial for customers in the South contributing to the renewable energy West.” debate including hosting an open round- New opportunity for customers table discussion at the Renewable Energy Coinciding with its expansion, Windcrop Feed in Tariff Exchange at Kingsley Village, Fraddon. has also introduced a new opportunity for For those who opt to purchase a customers with the capital available to buy Windcrop turbine for £20,000, reduced Windcrop their own turbine and earn an annual, tax- electricity bills are backed-up with a return www.windcrop.co.uk free income through the FiT. from the Government’s Feed in Tariff,
96 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SPONSORS OF DISTRIBUTED WIND
First overseas small wind turbine to receive certification in Japan
The 5kW turbine is now eligible – to support for the world’s highest Feed-in the emerging Tariff renewables sector. Evance, a leader in the manufacture of Our turbine is now small wind turbines announced recently eligible for this that its 5kW wind turbine has completed Feed-in Tariff,” he all tests and has been awarded full continued. certification in Japan. Tomoya Endo, Formal recognition CEO of Zephyr This certification is a formal recognition Corporation, stated: of the reliability, safety and overall “This is great performance of the Evance small wind news for Japan. turbine, providing customers with The Zephyr9000 confidence in the turbine, as well as is a high quality, entitlement to the new Feed-in Tariff. The “We are delighted to be the first overseas reliable and efficient small turbine which Evance turbine is offered in Japan through turbine to receive certification in Japan. It will enable many farmers, home owners Zephyr Corporation as the Zephyr9000. is a great testimony to our product, and and businesses to take up renewable to our design and manufacturing team energy. We have already seen a high here in the UK,” stated Kevin Parslow, level of interest, and I’m sure - now the CEO of Evance Wind Turbines. “Working turbine has received certification - that closely with our Japanese partner, Zephyr this interest will increase.” Corporation, has ensured the process ran smoothly and to plan. The turbine was certified by ClassNK as it complied with all the provisions in “Last year the Japanese Government the JSWTA0001 standard (published stated that it wanted to increase its by the Japanese Small Wind Turbines renewable energy usage, and reduce Association). Kevin Parslow CEO nuclear power and fossil fuel use. To Evance Wind Turbines support this they introduced a Feed-in Evance Wind Turbines Ltd Tariff – the highest in the world today www.evancewind.com
The community on the Isle of Muck, the Now there are no restrictive time slots for The Community smallest of the Small Isles off the West using a washing machine and watching on the Isle of Coast of Scotland, has been relying on television is not limited! diesel generators for 40 years as there Muck now has is no mains electricity. Now with a new Security of supply electricity for 24 renewable energy solution the Islanders Also, the islanders have security of lives will be transformed. supply. While many places across the UK hours a day have lost their electricity supply recently Evance R9000 small wind turbines, March 2013 saw the installation of a – impacting over a quarter of a million along with solar, will transform renewable energy solution incorporating people - the community on Muck has all islanders’ lives six of the Evance R9000 small wind the electricity it needs. turbines and 30kW of solar. “This is a particularly exciting project as it is great example of how harnessing What does natural resources can make a dramatic this mean difference to a community,” commented to the John Balson of Evance Wind Turbines. community? Firstly they now “This successful project proves the have electricity complete working model of a system for 24 hours a secure and sustainable power supply day. For the which could support other communities last 40 years suffering with fuel poverty due to the ever electricity has rising cost of conventional power.” been rationed as the generators Evance Wind Turbines Ltd were on for just www.evancewind.com 10 hours a day.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 97 OrbisEnergy Event
Future of
Hosts RenewableUK UK Offshore Maf Smith, deputy Chief Executive of RenewableUK, said he was delighted to bring such a significant event to Lowestoft which is recognised as a major hub for the Wind in the offshore industry. “There is so much going on here and we need that knowledge from the early days spotlight of Round 1 windfarms as we gradually move forward into the massive Round 3 developments off the coast here.
Almost 200 senior figures OrbisEnergy centre “We’re glad to be back at OrbisEnergy from across the UK’s offshore The ‘Asset Management: Reducing Cost, for a second time and to hear real life wind industry descended Addressing Risk’ conference was staged experiences from experts in the field. It is upon Suffolk recently to at the prestigious OrbisEnergy centre in vital that we share that knowledge.” debate the future of managing Lowestoft, hosted by national trade body operational wind projects. RenewableUK. Early challenges Jon Beresford, Operations Manager for Delegates assembled to hear what The event challenged the supply chain to E.ON’s Scroby Sands windfarm off Great lessons can be learnt from pioneering re-think how operations and maintenance Yarmouth, outlined some of challenges wind farm operators off the East of (O&M) can become a more integral part of setting up the UK’s first commercial England coast, and the sharing of of planning at the design and construction windfarm. experiences and thoughts from past and phase of future windfarms. Factoring it in potential developers which will help shape earlier could help substantially in reducing Beresford explained how their initial the future of the industry. overall costs. approach to O&M had been hands off, leaving it principally to the turbine manufacturers. But it became clear, after the five-year warranty, that they should take responsibility for everything from cleaning to fitting new blades or gearboxes with part supply agreements now in place which substantially reduces repair costs.
Lessons learned Invaluable lessons also came from the more recent Greater Gabbard windfarm off Suffolk. Stephen Rose, SSE’s offshore windfarm Generation Manager, said they quickly found that they needed a good mix of transit vessels and the support of a helicopter to maintain maximum access to turbines in variable weather. Even then access was restricted to 60-66% of the time.
Ramon Parra, Offshore O&M Manager for Vattenfall, agreed that waiting time and transport time were two of the major cost drivers in O&M with 45% or more of the issues attributable to bad weather.
98 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk OrbisEnergy Event
was delighted to see so many leading companies and experts looking to engage the regional supply chain in supporting and re-defining offshore wind O&M.
“We’ve heard from major developers about the reducing costs through inventive supply chain models, the application of new technology from Scour Prevention Systems, innovative business models from 3Sun, high-growth successes such as Seajacks, and newer entrants like Fred. Olsen Limited.
“It’s quite something when a nationally significant conference such as this highlights the leading roles our existing and graduate OrbisEnergy tenants are playing. Leading from the front, or perhaps in our case, the East!”
RenewableUK’s ‘Connect’ event Returning to Lowestoft for the second time, the conference was preceded by RenewableUK’s ‘Connect’ event, with more than 150 people attending an evening drinks and networking reception hosted by OrbisEnergy. Logistics Fred. Olsen Parra went on to outline the logistics Stuart Thornton, of Fred. Olsen Limited, options for the East Anglia project outlined the company’s new concept OrbisEnergy potentially using a mix of Offshore Access to tackle transport problems in offshore www.orbisenergy.net Vessels, Crew Transfer Vessels, Offshore windfarm O&M - ‘a mother ship’ prototype Access Platforms and helicopters. which would accommodate 40 people, RenewableUK transport parts and equipment, be a base www.renewableuk.com Maximum reliability and for smaller crew transfer vessels and have availability stability created from being a one-time For turbine manufacturer Areva Wind, UK floating casino where the roulette wheel Country Director Julian Brown accepted had to be consistently level! that its emphasis must be on maximum reliability and availability, better remote Johnathan Reynolds, Business control, easier maintenance and having Development Lead for OrbisEnergy, skilled people nearby and the right spare parts available when things did go wrong. In test trials offshore in 2011 its six turbines had proved 98% operational.
Round 3 projects The company’s interest in the Round 3 projects off the region’s coast was no secret and it meant exciting prospects for the region’s supply chain. Mr Brown looked forward to a long-term involvement with Lowestoft.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 99 metmasts feature METMASTS An alternative solution Ocean Resource has two tether tension (Tension Leg / TLP structure) meteorological mast designs with only the support column protruding marketed under its Xanthus portfolio above the surface, thus minimising the of products. fatigue impact of breaking waves.
Gravity buoyant concrete bases Built and assembled onshore – SeaMet and OceanMet SeaMet and OceanMet are both fully built Both SeaMet and OceanMet are based and assembled onshore, and then using upon Ocean Resource’s tested gravity only standard ocean tugs, both structures buoyant concrete bases that enable both are easily deployed and commissioned designs to be easily relocated and re-used offshore in single trips lasting a matter many times over their twenty five year of a few hours, thus also mitigating design lives. the uncertainties of weather. Landing platforms and access decks are provided SeaMet on both SeaMet and OceanMet to allow SeaMet is a self-installing 100m high boarding from a boat. offshore meteorological mast and monitoring platform for water depths up to Lidar arrays 60m that utilises a tubular hull containing For Lidar arrays, a much lighter version a telescopic lattice structure fixed to a self of SeaMet is available without the mast floating concrete and steel cellular gravity structure, and OceanMet (Lidar) buoys are base by means of a universal joint. suitable for depths greater than 30m.
OceanMet OceanMet (Lidar) utilises the same OceanMet is a self installing 100m high principles as its larger sibling, but consist meteorological mast and monitoring of a single bulbous hull. platform for water depths between 40m and 200m that utilises a watertight Relocation advantages tubular support column containing a SeaMet and OceanMet are both readily telescopic lattice mast fixed to a floating recovered and re-deployed with minimal support structure, which consists of four legacy impact, meaning that instead of independent steel watertight tanks linked using fixed masts that soon become to the central mast column through a truss redundant; a single SeaMet or OceanMet system. can be relocated several times at a fraction of the cost of a new build and with Gravity Buoyant System (GBS) no legacy impact. OceanMet is tethered to a rectangular concrete and steel cellular GBS Ocean Resource foundation comprising several separate www.xanthusenergy.com ballast compartments. The foundation is designed to sit on the sea bed and to Click to view more info resist the lateral forces imposed upon it by its buoy, tower and tethers.
The mast support structure is designed to remain below the water under positive
100 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk metmasts feature
Leading the way Leading the way for the development of what is the largest planned demonstration site in UK waters, the site will accommodate the demonstration of up to 15 turbines, foundations and associated Narec electrical infrastructure in 3 arrays in water depths between 35m - 55m. The Narec Offshore Anemometry Hub (NOAH) is the first geared up for structure installed offshore to support this project. MPI Adventure and SeaRoc offshore NOAH located 3 nautical miles off Blyth, Northumberland was The build-out of Narec’s proposed installed in November last year by MPI Adventure, fresh from its 99MW Blyth Offshore Wind deployment on the London Array wind farm. The contract for the Demonstration Site is their largest complete installation works was awarded to SeaRoc and included project to date and requires transport of the foundation to the quayside, full load-out and offshore investment of between £300-£400 installation of the foundation, three pin piles, grouting and full topside. million. The structure’s 53m-high tripod foundation, weighing 635t, 100t The demonstration project is the final platform and a 25t meteorological mast were assembled offshore piece in the jigsaw providing the UK with after being collected from the manufacturers on the River Tyne. world-leading integrated research, testing and demonstration facilities. Tallest metmast in UK waters At a height of 104m above mean sea level, the met mast is amongst the tallest planned for offshore wind in the UK. The fixed structure’s prime purpose is to collect wind resource data providing a benchmark for tenants to monitor the performance of turbines to be installed on the demonstration site for next generation turbines up to 8MW.
Latest technology Fitted with the latest technologies, the platform will also be used as an open-access facility for research purposes, such as trialling new technologies and processes, observing environmental conditions and collecting wildlife data to reduce the timescales and costs of consenting, build-out and operation of offshore renewables.
Remote sensing technologies such as fixed and floating LiDAR could provide significant cost savings for developers during the consenting stage of offshore wind projects. The facility will allow developers of these technologies the opportunity to validate new devices against traditional methods, demonstrate the reliability, data availability and performance of their product offshore in a remote environment whilst allowing Narec to build up vital industry knowledge of the offshore environment.
Test facilities update Meanwhile onshore, Narec has built a new 100m blade test and 3MW drive train test facilities for the accelerated life testing and development of larger offshore wind turbines, wind turbine blades and tidal energy devices.
A 15MW capacity drive train test facility is also under construction and will be operational by Summer 2013. These facilities are world- leading in their own right, but the potential to combine offshore demonstration with accelerated life testing in facilities onshore provides a unique proposition to support the growth of the industry in the UK.
Narec www.narec.co.uk
Click to view more info
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 101 metmasts feature
Offshore meteorological stations
a hidden challenge Best in class Although they are not the only means of Accounting for a small understanding the wind speed at a site, proportion of investment and Capital risk the consensus view is that a mast is the effort spent on a project, The mast, which can cost anything best option for decreasing the uncertainty the meteorological station between £4 and £10 million, is normally in wind speed predictions. The figure is easily overlooked. But installed before the project has reached below shows possible measurement designing and installing the financing milestone of full planning alternatives and how the uncertainty levels a ‘met mast’ demands a consent. This timing means that the compare. highly integrated approach installation happens before ‘financial and understanding of the close’, putting the developer’s capital at complex structural design. risk if consent is refused. For project development teams it captures many of the For example, Cirrus Shell Flat wind farm challenges encountered in development was shelved in 2008, six developing the project. years after a met mast was installed. Given all this, why bother with a mast in the first place? Met masts are installed early in the project development phase, with the objective of taking accurate wind measurements in order to increase confidence in the wind speed predictions.
The measured data alone gives an improved understanding of the site’s wind regime. But the value of the data can be increased by comparing them to Structural design challenges measurements made over a It is tempting to assume that the met much longer time period at a mast structure is fairly simple, especially weather station nearby. The when compared to a highly dynamic wind process known as ‘measure- turbine. correlate-predict’ involves identifying correlations While this might be true to some extent, between the long-term data the mast’s offshore foundation is not a and the measured on-site static structure and dynamic loads need data. to be considered. Lattice towers and their foundations must be robust enough to In essence, understanding withstand the wind and waves at the site the correlation enables without comprising the quality of wind synthesis of the long term measurements. record for the specific site – effectively providing a statistical view of wind speed over a much longer time span. Ultimately, the technique increases the certainty of wind speed predictions, and by inference, power production, over the life of the project.
The highest possible level of certainty about wind farm production is an important element of securing finance at the best available terms, a potent driver of the cost of energy.
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All about the data When tackling the tricky early demands of the project, it might be easy to forget that what really matters is the data coming from a few fragile instruments mounted on the mast.
Getting the specifications and detailed mounting arrangements right is crucial. At GL Garrad Hassan we have analysed data from a large number of offshore masts and found examples where this part of the design process has not been given Foundation options sufficient attention. Some masts have To date, several different foundations have delivered data which failed to follow best been installed to support masts, including: measurement practice, thereby impacting monopiles, jackets, suction buckets and project profitability. In delivering on the the Keystone “twisted jacket”. There are “hard part” of the meteorological mast, many factors that influence the selection they failed to deliver on what is sometimes of foundation solutions, but the largest perceived to be the “easy part”. cost is that of installation. To keep costs as low, a flexible approach to installation Data must also be complete and reliable. vessel options is essential to securing Probably the most common cause of data competitive charter rates. gaps are issues relating to the supply of power to the instruments. Delivering a The offshore environment is an onerous reliable power supply solution is always one and the mast and foundation must worthwhile. be designed for these conditions. Industry concerns have been raised about the An opportunity durability of met masts offshore. The Savvy developers are starting to lattice towers must also be checked understand how challenging offshore for loads resulting from the foundation meteorological masts can be, but oscillating due to wave action. These Integrated model above also how crucial the data is to project oscillations induce a cyclic load effect in profitability. They also recognise that many the lattice, causing fatigue to its joints and Integration of the issues encountered in their design members. These fatigue loads can be Integrated design is as essential for and installation mirror future challenges significant and must be assessed during offshore meteorological masts as it is that projects will face. the design stage by using an integrated for wind turbine structures. GL Garrad design process. Hassan have performed assessments of Investing the time and money needed to offshore towers and foundations using build a team with the competencies to the bladed fully dynamic simulation overcome these challenges should be a programme, the results of which have priority for all developers. established the importance of damping, the system’s resistance to oscillation. The level of damping used in the integrated GL Garrad Hassan analysis is critical to accurate calculation www.gl-garradhassan.com of the fatigue loads in the mast and foundation. Damping sources are described in the equations below:
GL Garrad Hassan found that omitting the aerodynamic damping component in the integrated analysis can overestimate fatigue loads in the mast by up to 30%.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 103 metmasts feature
very useful feedback and test installation methods. However, there is still a Metmasts significant difference between a foundation for a met mast and a foundation for a wind a trial run for offshore wind turbine.
turbine foundations Bespoke design criteria Meteorological masts are a necessary • which turbines are going to be used? A met mast foundation can be designed tool to assess the wind resource and – larger turbines will inevitably require with a particular turbine in mind. This will the future profitability of wind farms. heavier and more robust foundations provide even more certainty about the But they also can be used to de-risk • deeper on average waters will require construction methods and costs of future the future development in many other taller and larger foundations foundations and their installation in a lower ways. • further from shore locations will put risk environment. It will also simplify future a strain on logistics of delivering certification work and acceptance of such Factors to consider these heavier and larger structures to foundations by bankers and insurance One of the major risks of future large-scale the installation site and their installation companies. wind farms on the UKCS is the cost of • just the sheer scale of these foundations for offshore wind turbines and developments, many of which will start In the situation when there are no currently their installation. There are several factors construction almost simultaneously, is available demonstration sites for deep at play. a challenge by itself water foundations in the UK, met mast projects are increasingly important as Preparation ensures success testing grounds. Some of the offshore wind developers have realised that the success is Reducing risk in preparation and have used met As an outcome, met mast projects masts as a test for offshore WTG become a versatile tool for reducing the foundations and installation methods. risk of future offshore wind developments at a marginal cost rather than just an It benefits the developer, who is expenditure to be scrapped in the future. able to evaluate the technological advantages and disadvantages of a Aquind OGN particular foundation type, the costs www.ogn-group.com of fabrication, transportation and installation. Click to view more info Kirill Glukhovskoy – Director, Corporate & Business Development It also helps companies with innovative approaches to foundations to gain the track record, receive Offshore metmast instrumentation Traditionally site conditions are Guidelines The IALA Marking of Offshore Man-Made measured using a meteorological mast, Several guidelines are in place to help Structures and Civil Aviation guidelines are all which hold instruments measuring wind designers achieve complete, reliable in place to ensure that offshore met masts speed, wind direction and atmospheric solutions. The IEC 61400:12:1, IEA do not present a hazard to passing ships or conditions at various heights. Recommended Practices on Wind airplanes, and to give minimum operational Speed Measurement and the Use of guidelines in terms of power autonomy in The primary function of any met mast Cup Anemometry, and MEASNET cup the event of a power or instrument failure. project is to collect high quality data anemometer calibration all ensure that met and performing this work offshore offers masts provide bankable wind speed data. Maintenance exciting new challenges and opportunities. Maintenance requirements for met masts must also be considered when A challenge specifying systems. Finding equipment Limited access windows at sea mean which can be attended to without the use that it is essential that met masts offshore of specialist tools or lifting equipment is are stand-alone solutions offering remote of vital importance offshore. Safety must access and control options to ensure be guaranteed offshore, so maintenance good data availability and minimising schedules must be specified to avoid costly site intervention visits. Achieving this potentially dangerous situations. while still producing high quality data is a challenge which requires careful design Making sure that maintenance schedules of the interfaces between measurement are as clear and concise as possible instrumentation, navigation equipment, will also ensure a good relationship with communication systems, and power delivery. offshore contractors!
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CE marking safety. It also signifies that the products conform with the relevant harmonised certification for technical specifications and that the FLI Structures relevant assessment procedures have been complied with. FLI Structures is pleased to announce its attainment of CE European conformity marking certification, for steel The letters CE carry the meaning structures, towers, masts & screw pile “Conformité Européenne” which foundations. This has been achieved translates to European Conformity. earlier than the EU’s compulsory The CE mark is mandatory for specific implementation date of July 2014 product groups sold within the EU and under the Construction Products all manufacturers must demonstrate Directive (CPD). they have taken the necessary steps that then allow them to affix the CE Compulsory mark to their products. CE marking will be compulsory for fabricated items in the UK by July 1st Dave Bufton, FLI’s QHSE Manager 2014 and all UK steel manufacturers explains; “FLI Structures are fabricating steel must comply. extremely proud of what we have achieved in gaining our CE marking Factory Production Control accreditation. When the infrastructure (FPC) markets we serve start demanding FLI is now well placed by completing CE marked products FLI will be ready the necessary work needed, in order to to deliver. Achieving CE marking gain their certification early. FLI’s FPC, accreditation demonstrates our clear management systems and welding commitment delivering firstclass procedures have all been certified by the quality products to the market”. Steel Construction Certification Scheme to comply with CE marking standards. FLI Structures www.fli.co.uk Declaration CE marking is a regulatory mark applied Click to view more info by the manufacturer, that is a declaration to public authorities and clients that the product satisfies required levels of health &
New measurement possibilities Instrumentation Working offshore also offers new Engineer measurement possibilities and to this Erik Brown (pictured) end Oldbaum has been involved in using is an Instrumentation innovative bird monitoring solutions using Engineer at Oldbaum tracking radar, and also underwater Services. Based in hydrophones to monitor marine mammals. the UK, his principal focus is on providing The position and stability of the mast measurement platform also offers an opportunity to verify solutions to their and explore the capabilities of remote worldwide customer sensing devices, such as LiDAR, against base. Erik’s expertise mast measurements. in instrumentation and system integration Experience has led to a number Oldbaum Services have a great deal of of successful offshore experience working on offshore met mast met mast projects projects, and through inter-disciplinary including offshore interface co-ordination like to work remote sensing collaboratively and positively with their deployment and complete topside design. Oldbaum Services different suppliers and contractors. Erik’s work in Oldbaum’s UKAS accredited www.oldbaumservices.co.uk wind tunnel calibration service as well as his By building on their current relationships experience of offshore installation work is and fostering new ones the company reflected in his focus on innovative solutions hopes to carry on providing innovative, high to the challenge of acquiring high quality quality offshore met masts to their clients. wind data.
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 105 metmasts feature specialist surveying feature Seabed surveys in the offshore wind industry Having a clear understanding of the geology and general site conditions of offshore wind developments is critical to the overall success of the project, as sites are ordinarily constructed in complex and challenging environments.
This information underpins a number of significant project planning aspects from key engineering planning through to the construction process itself. It follows that the acquisition, interpretation and reporting of this information should be precise, detailed and well-presented for informed decision-making.
Financial advantages Investing in high quality survey data in the initial planning phases not only makes sense in terms of enabling effective project planning, but is also financially advantageous, leading to real cost-efficiencies as the need for re-investigation can be virtually eliminated prior to the development phase.
Reliable data and unexploded ordnance (UXO) Reliable data benefits a multitude of stakeholders and contractors dealing with deep geotechnical and structural engineering, shallow cabling engineering, environmental consenting as well as informing life-long operation and maintenance planning. Then of course there is also the challenge of UXO to contend with.
Investment in the latest technology Specialising in seabed mapping and geophysical survey, Osiris Projects recognise quality data outcomes can only be achieved through continuous investment in the very latest technology. This investment begins with the correct platform and the company has five specialised coastal and near-shore survey vessels, with three additional vessels in planning.
Substantial volumes of time and resources are dedicated to the procurement and maintenance of the advanced equipment mobilised for each project. The extensive list includes navigation and positioning equipment, echo sounders, side scan sonars, sub bottom profilers, magnetometers and geotechnical sampling equipment, alongside specialist data acquisition, image processing and CAD software.
IT IT is a central operation, and Osiris Projects have invested in sophisticated workstations, fast Gigabit networking and over 150 Terabytes of secure data storage capacity, allowing the company to provide on-going data management for clients.
Collaborative approach As a multi-disciplinary firm, consistency and compatibility of data is a key concern for Osiris Projects. The complexity of UK geology and environmental conditions regularly requires the use of a variety of acoustic methods, which can often lead to
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Cabling Cabling is also a major consideration. While clearly, distance to shore becomes an issue, the cable also needs to cross an increasingly dynamic range of offshore environments; seabed types, deep channels, man-made obstructions and so on. These environments are often inhospitable for cable burial ploughs, sleds and tracked burial ROVs and similarly the deployment of heavily armoured cables can be difficult. Cabling can be left susceptible to damage and requiring additional monitoring, protection and inspection.
Export cable route surveys form a large element of our work in the sector, and are often complex and time consuming. Numerous route options are evaluated, and the overall objective is to identify the most economic, safe and operationally sound route to shore. Generally, developers are fully prepared to award sizeable contracts to survey contractors to receive the detailed seabed information necessary to make these decisions, as cabling errors are typically incredibly costly to resolve.
The additional technical demand at challenging locations has resulted in Osiris Projects focusing their methodologies towards ultra-high resolution survey packages.
As the offshore wind market has evolved the developers have embraced the benefits of the detail now available whilst monitoring their assets, both WTG foundations and cables.
Osiris Projects www.osirisprojects.co.uk interpretation challenges. One way the company addresses this issue is to adopt a collaborative approach to site and office based work, whereby commonly a project is followed through the acquisition, processing, interpretation and reporting phases by the same team.
Many challenges It is difficult to identify the most significant challenge in an industry that faces so many, but in Osiris Projects’ experience it is operating within the environmentally problematic areas which are so suited to offshore wind that generate the majority of issues. Offshore contractors await weather windows to perform myriad tasks. The risk of poor weather – the kind of conditions which would be best case scenario for an existing wind farm – during the summer months scheduled for installation can have a significant impact on a project.
While clearly there is no solution to bad weather, the risk can be mitigated through effective planning, personnel training, and +44 (0)3333 441113 vessel and equipment development. Often the challenge is less about the physical weather conditions and more about the “fast-tracked” time schedules set out for A new ApproAch developers and governments throughout Europe. to AviAtion impAct Assessments... Round 3 developments • pre-planning site assessments Round 3 presents a number of challenges. Being further • Field surveys (accurate quantification of impact) offshore and in deeper water naturally increases resource • Full aviation impact assessments requirements, and clearly the extraordinary scale creates • impartial, expert advice from professionals numerous concerns. The traditional monopile design has a with 20+ years’ experience in communications water depth limit of approximately 30m, and with Round 3 engineering & Air traffic management developments being constructed in water depths between 18- 60m the next generation of foundations such as tripod, jacket Because measurement is better than prediction. and gravity based designs will dominate. A few have also shown the potential for floating wind turbines. These designs typically demand a greater seabed footprint, which for us at Osiris Aerostat surveys Ltd. +44 (0)3333 441113 Projects means increased surveying requirements. www.aerostat.co.uk [email protected]
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 107 specialist surveying feature Navitus Bay Case Study
environment. Viewers were able to toggle between different turbine sizes layouts and follow the proposed cable route from the wind turbines to a substation at Three Legged Cross near Ringwood.
The Result The model was used extensively throughout the third phase of public consultations which took place at eight locations along the coast. Around 2,000 visitors attended the exhibitions and they all had the opportunity to use the 3D model to assess realistic views of the wind farm from any requested viewpoints which would otherwise have been impossible to provide.
The Challenge The Navitus Bay wind park, a joint venture between Eneco Wind UK Ltd and EDF Energy, has recently completed the third phase of stakeholder and public consultation. The proposals are for between 136 and 218 offshore turbines in Poole Bay at a distance of at least 14 km from the coast.
As always on such schemes, Navitus Bay faced a challenge to effectively communicate the appearance of the development when viewed from different locations along the coastline. There was some debate about the efficacy of traditional photo montages and The Solution Positive feedback the number of views that could be offered. Using a combination of Ordinance Survey Feedback on the 3D model was terrain data, aerial imagery, mapping overwhelmingly positive. Irrespective of So, the Navitus Bay team turned to data and over 1,000 local photographs, whether or not individuals agreed with 3DW, a Manchester based company 3DW created a fully interactive 3D model, the Navitus Bay development, the model who specialise in creating interactive encompassing an area of 1,600 km2 clearly presented the proposals in a non- 3D computer models of wind farm which represented prominent locations technical and unambiguous way which developments to address visual impact such as The Needles on the Isle of facilitated open, informed and constructive issues in a dynamic and engaging format. Wight, Bournemouth Pier and Durlston discussions about the scheme. To date, the company has produced Lighthouse as well as the proposed 3D models to support over 75 on and turbine layouts. 3DW offshore wind farm projects. www.3dwebtech.co.uk The resulting 3D model of the wind farm was one of the most extensive and detailed ever produced and provides accurate views of the proposed wind farm from any location within the 3D
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A revolution in surveying birds and mammals The past five years have seen a Round 3 zones revolution in the way birds and marine Developers of the UK’s mammals are surveyed as part of Round Three offshore the consenting process for offshore wind farm zones relied windfarms, with the UK emerging heavily on digital aerial as the world leader in digital aerial surveys, with regulators surveys. The potential impact on now increasingly birds and mammals of proposed following suit. Survey offshore windfarms is an important specialists APEM worked consideration in securing consent, on seven of the nine so accurately counting the birds and zones and were recently mammals and identifying their species hired by Natural England is important. and the Countryside Commission for Wales Modern digital aerial surveys to carry out important In the past, boat-based observers surveys in the Outer equipped with little more than binoculars Thames and Carmarthen and clipboards carried out most offshore Bay special protection bird and mammal surveys. Modern digital areas. aerial surveys instead use hi tech, ultra high resolution digital cameras fitted to Accreditation aircraft to take thousands of images over Stuart Clough, Remote Sensing Director at to gain accreditation from UKAS for the proposed windfarm area, capturing APEM, said: “Aerial surveys are actually counting and identifying birds in digital each and every animal ‘on film’. The just the start of our work, when we aerial photographs.” process is usually faster, cheaper and gather the raw data. Back on the ground more accurate. Importantly, aerial surveys the heart of the process is our team of APEM are also safer, because by being quicker expert ornithologists who analyse every www.apemltd.co.uk to complete, they require staff to spend image. Our quality control systems mean less time offshore. that we’ve become the first company
Insight Marine Projects Ltd is a Deployed systems include... Tailor made specialist hydrographic survey • bespoke tug management suites company providing tailor made • Multi-sensor data buoy systems survey solutions to the offshore renewable • Multi-channel data telemetry solutions energy industry. The company • Integration with DP systems to visually regularly works in areas with warn project personnel of vessel run-offs challenging sea conditions on wave • CUBIT, the all-in-one navigation system and tidal energy installations. They offering multiple levels of hardware and believe that some of the systems and software failover protection equipment we have developed are directly relevant to the offshore wind A case study industry as the next round of wind Insight Marine Projects recently provided farms expand into areas of deeper survey support during the installation of a water with stronger currents. novel monopile foundation developed by Bauer Renewables Ltd. An exceptional In position at the right time challenge was posed not only by the The survey/positioning challenge whilst drilling works at a water depth of 37 working in demanding environments meters, but also by the extremely strong and with emerging technologies is to currents. ensure that the construction vessel and associated equipment is all in position at Whilst wind turbines are not currently the right time, and is able to stay there, being constructed in these conditions, in order to maximise the operating time there are several transferrable systems available to the project construction team. and technologies that can be applied to the more challenging conditions being With the proper systems and equipment, considered for the next round of wind farm operational time can be maximised to developments, to help them achieve better greatest effect whilst reducing potential cost efficiency and success. downtime due to equipment failures, thereby helping to reduce overall project Insight Marine Projects costs. www.insight-marine.co.uk
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 109 specialist surveying feature Coastline Surveys continues growth with launch of new offshore division As part of their continued growth Accreditations Recent projects Coastline Surveys Ltd are delighted Having achieved the necessary ISO and Some of their recent projects include to announce the launch of Coastline Achilles Verify accreditations to work mobilising the Flatholm to Western Offshore Ltd, a new division of the within the demanding environment of the Denmark for third party survey contractors company specifically developed oil and gas industry they are confident that and operating the CPT in the southern to meet the growing demands for Coastline Offshore will be an attractive Baltic Sea on client vessels. specialist offshore geotechnical and solution for contractors and consultants geophysical services beyond their who are looking for a reputable niche Management experience established coastal markets. company to bring experience and David Hitchcock, Managing Director of the expertise to every job. Coastline Group believes this is another Emerging offshore renewables positive step forward for the company and The new division will enable the company The company is positioned to work within said “Coastline considers itself unique to employ their considerable expertise in a variety of sectors including marine because we work with our clients to emerging offshore renewables, at home renewables, cables, oil and gas, dredging deliver the results they want. It is my and abroad, whilst also firmly establishing & civil engineering projects, environmental belief that we should always strive to them as a significant survey support monitoring and offshore construction. exceed the expectations of our clients by subcontractor within the oil & gas industry. Their equipment and teams of professional delivering quality results, cost effectively surveyors can be deployed as a mobile and always to the highest possible Coastline has recently focused sizeable solution around the globe working standards of safety. This is backed up investment within their geotechnical onboard client vessels, mobilised on a by a management team who between division, with the addition of a Datem vessel of opportunity or on their own 24m them has over 75 years experience in the 5000 CPT, which in conjunction with the fully equipped survey ship, MV Flatholm. marine survey industry. It is our absolute expanding pool of vibrocorers, grabs priority to maintain this appreciation of and in-house labs, enables them to offer service and quality to all our clients, large a complete package of geotechnical and small, as the company continues to services. develop in the coming years.”
Coastline Surveys Ltd www.coastlinesurveys.co.uk
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20 years experience They can undertake bathymetric, side- from Mainprize scan, ROV visual and light work – pipe and cable track – sonar survey, bottom Offshore and sub bottom profile, magnetometer, Mainprize Offshore Ltd have over 20 drop core, grab sampling, water sampling, years’ experience in the oil and gas trawl survey, AUV survey, 2D seismic, and more recently in the offshore depth of burial, object location and renewable sectors. recovery, route survey, scour monitoring, intertidal and bird surveys. Extensive services The company has been actively involved They have added redundancy where in guard, chase, support, cargo, crew and they felt necessary, fully redundant bridge passenger transfer, fuel and water supply, largest survey class and medium work systems, twin generators fitted to reduce bathymetric, debris recovery, shallow class ROV to be used. down time. water survey, route clearance – seabed survey including camera, grab and video The bridge is well equipped and houses: Bespoke service sampling, environmental work, trawl and 5 point computer station and lounge area, The company also offer to fit clients’ traffic surveys. 6 x 19” and 2 x 32” monitors to view the specific equipment such as salvage vessels networked information. pumps, oil recovery and FiFi equipment. 2 new vessels Mainprize are soon to take delivery of the first Communications Exciting times of a two vessel order from Buckie that will Ease of access to any data required It is a very exciting time for Mainprize greatly increase their operational footprint. at a given station via a selector switch, offshore Ltd the coming months will see V-sat satellite broad band, Wi-Fi, satellite the launch, delivery and are also exhibiting Specifications phone, Inmarsat C, MF, HF and internal Seaworks 2013 in June. The 25M LOA x 9.5M Beam vessels are communications systems. to a Teknicraft design, fitted with twin Mainprize Offshore Cat C32 engines designed for 30kts and Facilities www.mainprizeoffshore.co.uk able to carry 40T of deck cargo are truly The deckhouse is fitted with 12 versatile vessels. suspension seats, 7 person dining/ Click to view more info meeting table, large galley, toilet, Fitted with a moon pool, two 1.5T at 7m treatment room and various lounge seats cranes and wide A frame rated at 1.5 and two 32” monitors for training and tons with a 8 metre width allowing for the entertainment.
advanced products that allow the Mantsbrite launches new Koden commercial user to fine-tune the echo sounder frequency to suit their needs. Broadband Echo Sounder With up to two variable frequencies Mantsbrite Limited, a leading any two frequencies between 42kHz to simultaneously displayed, fish species distributor of marine equipment for 65kHz and 130kHz to 210kHz. The two and ground discrimination are excellent. a number of international electronic chosen frequencies can be displayed I’m proud that Mantsbrite, as Koden’s navigation product manufacturers, is simultaneously. exclusive UK distributor, is now introducing now supplying the new Koden CVS- them to the British market place.” 128B & CVS-1410B FX2BB broadband Digital filtering technology echo sounders to its 175 strong UK The frequencies can be adjusted in Mantsbrite and Ireland dealer network. 0.1khz steps for precise tuning and best www.mantsbrite.com response when looking for specific fish Specifications species or when used for seabed ground The Koden CVS-128B & CVS1410B are discrimination. The new Koden broadband dual frequency broadband echosounders sounders also feature Koden Digital with a 2kW power output. The CVS- Filtering (KDF™) technology which enables 128B has an 8.4” colour display and the a high resolution low noise picture and CVS-1410B has a 10.4” colour display. gives an outstanding range of detection Two types of broadband transducer are when combined with the 2kW power available where the user can select and output. With these features, the Koden change a frequency as required to target Broadband echo sounders are suitable for specific fish species or avoid interference commercial fishing or survey purposes. with other echosounders. Mantsbrite Managing Director David Ash The Koden TDM-017 broadband comments: “It’s a well-known fact that transducer allows the operator to choose certain fish species and objects can be any two frequencies between 38kHz and seen better at specific frequencies. The 75kHz; with the TDM-091D broadband new Koden CVS-128B and CVS1410B transducer the operator can choose Broadband echosounders are technically
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Specialist support to the wind industry
An average day’s work at one of Experience Alongside a team of former Royal Navy the UK’s windfarm sites involves a Although historically a military deliverable, Clearance Divers, Ramora UK offers diverse range of activities including; the disposal of UXO items offshore by clients access to reactive bomb disposal construction, diving, cable-laying commercial companies is now well services, including the Remote Explosive and survey, however, an increasingly proven. Ramora UK have been delivering Ordnance Disposal System (REODS) common addition is bomb disposal, such services since 2005 and have which can be deployed against UXO as a result of improved Unexploded undertaken more UXO disposals in targets using the majority of ROV’s in Ordnance (UXO) awareness and the past three years than their military service today. increasing footprints of the windfarm counterparts. The techniques used are sites. Thus, the need for competent far more technologically based and allow Prioritising risk and qualified specialist bomb disposal greater flexibility alongside client cost- The continued success of wind generation teams has never been greater. savings. Additionally, advancements allow projects alongside exploration into for the removal of personnel from the risk, previously untouched areas, results Ensuring competence and thereby enhancing the safety profile of in further UXO discoveries. The only expertise such operations. remaining question for operators is how When handled incorrectly, or due to lack they prioritise the UXO risk during the early of understanding surrounding risk, UXO stages of projects. Historically, those who related incidents can result in significant initially invest wisely, and entirely, in a UXO unnecessary costs (£M). Recent incidents solution will reap financial reward during have highlighted the importance of project progression. Whereas, those who adequate risk assessment and verification choose to save early on, by neglecting of the UXO contractor’s capabilities to risk management, invariably encounter enable them to undertake this work. significantly elevated costs and risk Increasingly, some maritime contractors throughout the project. offer this as a bolt-on service derived from a scratch team with minimal quality Ramora UK or safety assurance and track record. www.ramorauk.com This trend has been acknowledged by a number of larger operators, hence, comprehensive vetting measures have been introduced to ensure more extensive levels of competence and expertise.
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