COMMUNICATION HUB FOR THE WIND ENERGY INDUSTRY Ecology Jack-Up Vessels

Spotlight on Ireland Specialist Tools

August/September 2013 | £5.25

INTRODUCTION Ecology and its importance within the wind Other features As the magazine continues to grow and energy it is now commonplace to see separate features on all sorts of areas within the industry. These features emanate from industry our discussions with leading experts in the industry during our visits to conferences and events, as well as our editorial team bringing up subject areas when looking at Since our inception some the industry as a whole. 4 years ago we have been speaking to companies and Please feel free to contact us if there is individuals involved in the any subject area which you think may be important work they do in of interest to our readership and we will the ecology area relevant to do the rest – there is never any charge for wind energy. genuine editorial.

As Editor, my own personal interest in You will find our ‘Forthcoming Features’ the subject stems from managing Sites tab on our website in the magazine of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in section. an earlier career. Lead article We are therefore very pleased to We often feature a leader in the industry introduce our Bird & Animal feature and and again we give Sam Pick from open this with an article from Baker Renewables Network an opportunity to Consultants, one of the leaders in the give us his views… because he makes so field. much sense! Duncan McGilvray Editor | Wind Energy Network Regular feature Magazine and website We plan to make this a regular feature interaction – QR codes www.windenergynetwork.co.uk if we receive sufficient relevant editorial, Yet another reminder that we have so please get in touch if you would like changed our pink and green flashes Click to view more info to get involved. indicating more information online. QR codes have been substituted in the printed version which means that you can scan Scan/click this link to find out how the code with your smart phone and it to get involved in this magazine will direct you to the featured company or organisation micropage held within our website, so that you can learn much more in all sorts of formats.

These have already become very popular as it links the printed magazine in a very interactive way – a great marketing tool for our decision making readership to find out about products and services following the reading of an interesting article.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 01 WIND ENERGY NETWORK

The cover image was supplied by Baker Consultants – just one of the stunning images which we receive Ecofrom time to time.

Our Ecology: Bird & Animal feature contains a number of interesting articles and the feature is indeed dear to my heart as in a former career I used to manage Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

This will be a regular feature so please feel free to contribute editorial for future editions.

Regular/one off features lo Amongst some 15 features within this edition we focus on, Training for Work Offshore, Jack-Up Vessels, Specialist Tools, and a Spotlight on Ireland, to name but a few.

Duncan McGilvray gy Editor | Wind Energy Network

02 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk CONTENTS

CONTENTS Page 4 Industry lead article – All Hat and no Cadillac? Page 48 Company interview – we visit fast growing Pipeshield International and learn more about Steve Page 6 Your Industry News section starts here Howlett, their Managing Director

Page 12 Your regular events calendar and what’s new Page 50 Money Matters – our now regular finance feature

Page 14 Jack-Up Vessels – the monsters of the industry Page 59 Company Feature - AV Dawson celebrates 75 years

Page 22 Skills Gap – updates on our long term initiative Page 60 Problem? Solved! – we introduce yet another regular feature – just a taster of what’s to come in future Page 26 Business Development section – regular advice from our team of experts Page 62 Spotlight on Ireland

Page 28 Ecology – the first of which we would like to be a Page 82 New rules for the industry introduced by Lloyds regular feature Register

Page 34 Lubricants – regular advice from our experts Page 83 A new breed of onshore turbine – information by Steve Cirell a well repected industry consultant Page 38 Risk Management – continued advice from Risktec the leaders in the industry Page 84 Training for Offshore Work

Page 40 Industry Insight – All in a Day’s Work featuring Page 92 Specialist Tools – industry specific advice on tools Christos Kolliatsas from Mott McDonald Page 104 ‘Distributed Wind’ feature – continuing our regular Page 42 Andrew Jackson Solicitors heads up our Law feature headed by ICE Renewables feature ‘Legal Eagles’ Page 108 Research & Development – continuing news in this innovative industry

p8 p19 p81

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Green Energy Publishing Ltd (SOUTHERN) OrbisEnergy, Wilde Street, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 1XH

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Wind Energy Network magazine is happy to accept unsolicited contributions for consideration. Editorial opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Green Energy Publishing Ltd and the company does not accept responsibility for advertising content. The publishers cannot accept any responsibility for omissions or errors. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 03 INDUSTRY ARTICLE

Offshore Wind All Hat and No Cadillac? The industry of offshore wind the UK is all hat and no Cadillac. We lead the world in terms of offshore wind production but we trail badly in wealth creation. Recent research by industry trade association Renewable UK reveals that a “good” performance for a UK offshore wind farm construction is 30% spent here in the UK. That means that 70% of the spend in these mammoth tax payer funded projects goes overseas.

Why is this? Why is this happening? However, after three years of the coalition Primarily, this is because the vast bulk of Traditionally the UK was slow to embrace government, growth in the industry has manufacturing work is not done here in renewable energy which gave a key now stalled. Repeated mixed messages the UK. If we separate the manufacture ‘first mover’ advantage to Germany and from Conservative MPs have damaged of a turbine into nacelles, blades, towers, Denmark. Combine that with the decline investor confidence and manufacturers monopiles, foundations and installation of UK manufacturing over the past twenty have been comfortable meeting UK we see twenty six major offshore wind years and it has been very difficult to demand via existing European based manufacturing plants in Europe. Germany persuade major manufacturers that the facilities. Renewable UK illustrates UK leads the way with fourteen plants with UK has a supply chain to support them. demand for production capacity in two the UK propping up the league table with Put simply; build a factory in Germany and scenarios. Scenario 1 shows an installed just two. Interestingly, there are eight you know you will have the supply chain to capacity of 13GW by 2020 and Scenario manufacturing plants in the UK announced, support you. Build in the UK and there is 2 shows an installed capacity of 18GW but so far none are in construction (and a question mark. by 2020. We are currently on track for may never be). It’s no surprise that UK Plc Scenario 1. This means that existing is not getting its share of the offshore wind Going back four years to the days of the European supply capacity is capable of boom when the vast majority of turbine last Labour government, the supply chain meeting UK demand. components are imported from Europe. weaknesses were being overcome by the sheer rate of growth for UK offshore wind. Offshore wind components are invariably huge and there are key logistics benefits of locating manufacturing close to wind farms in the North Sea. With the industry growing rapidly manufacturers were prepared to support the UK supply chain in order to secure a place in the UK market. This led to a whole host of announcements such as the Greenport Hull project and Vestas in Sheerness etc.

04 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY ARTICLE

The UK will therefore be in the worst possible position: investing billions of pounds of tax payer money in the development of offshore wind farms where the major beneficiary will be German 2 There needs to be real pressure and Danish businesses. This is a crazy put on offshore wind developers to use situation where the UK maximises cost to UK content. Even at the lower levels of the treasury and minimises benefit to the Scenario 1 there are billions of pounds taxpayer. Or as Renewable UK state: being invested in offshore wind farms. These wind farms are dependant on “Although both scenarios will generate UK tax payer subsidies and yet the significant levels of activity, the lower government continues to take a “light scenario runs a greater risk of not touch” approach to requiring UK content. stimulating inward investment in the As the report points out this does not UK. This is because the commercial happen in other European countries and is and logistics benefits of setting up in the a key area of weakness for UK Plc. UK may not be a sufficient incentive for Tier 1 suppliers, who will instead look to In summary supply offshore components from existing Offshore wind has massive potential Continental supply chains.” for UK Plc and the Humber region in particular. Right now we are the suckers What do we do about it? in the game. We have the world’s biggest 1 The coalition government needs to offshore wind farms, but receive only a tiny provide a clear directive in relation to energy fraction of the manufacturing and supply policy. Right now it is confused with chain wealth created by the industry. ‘luddite’ Tory MPs opposed to renewable This situation is largely the fault of long energy development being allowed to term investors’ risk analysis, combined dominate the message. This has limited with confusing coalition government direct impact on the development of messaging, and the UK’s inability to find offshore wind farms, but it does have a effective ways to specify local content in direct knock on effect to private investors the manufacture and construction of wind looking at the supply chain. This turbines and offshore wind farms. messaging needs to be corrected if we are to secure key investments. The UK This is a situation that can rapidly be turned currently has eight major offshore wind around. However, in order to do so we manufacturing projects announced, but need to take the emotional politics out of not yet constructed. The potential is clearly energy policy and look at what is truly good there, but it is being held back by blinkered for UK Plc. We are, as a nation, investing politicians. billions of pounds into offshore wind farms. This is happening and no amount The government’s desire is to appease of misinformed economic commentary by Tory members who are fearful that the Tory backbench MPs will stop this. It is level of technological innovation required now our job to ensure that UK businesses for production cost savings will not be and workers receive the maximum possible delivered. They should read the DECC’s benefits from these developments. own report that shows wind energy Otherwise we will continue to subsidise the projects due to start in 2018 will already development of a continental European produce cheaper electricity per MegaWatt industry in UK waters. hour than fossil fuel projects (including gas). It is, however, the emotional myopia of this Westminster lobby that is keeping sam Pick us at the Scenario 1 stage and preventing renewables Network inward investors building a UK offshore www.renewablesnetwork.co.uk wind manufacturing supply chain. Essentially, they are ensuring the UK gets the worst possible deal. Click to view more info

= Click to view video

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 05 INDUSTRY NEWS

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOGwynt y Môr – a shared suppliersU of diving services to the! North West investment offshore wind industry. At 576MW, Gwynt y Môr is one of the firm dives into largest offshore wind farms currently in “Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm construction in Europe. It is a shared Limited has awarded more than renewables investment between partners RWE £310million worth of contracts to UK Innogy, Stadtwerke München GmbH based companies, with many operating with £5million and Siemens. Once fully operational, from the North West and North Wales.” Gwynt y Môr will generate enough clean contract green energy to meet the needs of The diving contract around 400,000 homes and carries with The diving contract has secured work for A NORTH WEST based commercial it a community benefit fund of up to £19 HSSE’s twenty office based staff, with diving and specialist offshore services million, securing investment into local 60-80 sub-contractors being employed company has been awarded a major communities for the next 25 years. for the offshore works. They will operate contract to support the construction from the specialised offshore construction of Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm in RWE npower renewables’ Gwynt y Môr vessel ‘Normand Tonjer’. HSSE are Liverpool Bay. Project Director, Toby Edmonds said: providing a state of the art diving system “Hughes Sub Surface Engineering is on board, including Twin Launch and Hughes Sub Surface Engineering (HSSE), providing crucial diving services to Recovery systems (LARS), NITROX with offices in Bootle, Mostyn and Staines, support the construction of Gwynt y Môr. breathing gases, hot water diving systems won a £5million contract for diving and cable and an 1800mm decompression chamber; installation support services, creating jobs “Finding this level of specialism so close ensuring maximum productivity on site and and bringing investment into the region. to the construction site has been hugely limiting downtime due to weather. beneficial in developing good working relationships.

“HSSE has been working hard to meet the needs of the renewables industry and as a result is now one of the largest

06 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS

Unique offering This was one of several events carried “As a company we have strong Re-affirming the company’s growing out across Wales, to raise awareness of connections in North Wales. I am from reputation as a provider of specialist business opportunities from RWE NRL’s Deganwy originally and 70% of our diving, rigging and engineering services to portfolio of developing projects, including workforce is from the local area.” the offshore wind farm sector Ian Hughes, Clocaenog Forest Wind Farm, near Ruthin. Managing Director for HSSE, said: “Our Offshore construction at Gwynt y Môr unique blend of skills, knowledge and Wales renewables growth is well underway more than eight miles experience in this demanding arena, Renewables is a key business growth offshore, with 80 monopile foundations and coupled with our ability to provide sector in Wales and the likes of Clocaenog the two offshore substations now in place. innovative solutions to the range of Forest wind farm (up to 96MWs), offers challenges always present on these significant potential for local companies Onshore complex projects, ensures we provide to secure new contracts within the Onshore, the new 400kV Bodelwyddan a valued service to help our clients sector. Only last week, a report by Cardiff substation south of St Asaph Business successfully complete projects on time Business School and Manchester-based Park is now live and connected to the and within budget.” economic consultants Regeneris outlined National Grid. Sections of the 132kV that delivery of the Welsh Government substation, on the same site, which Gwynt y Môr Supply Chain event renewables agenda could be worth will take electricity from the offshore HSSE was one of more than 100 £2.3billion to the Welsh economy and substations, have also been connected businesses to attend the Gwynt y Môr could secure around 2000 jobs a year. into the National Grid. The 11km onshore Supply Chain event at Venue Cymru in cable route between Pensarn and St Llandudno in January 2011. HSSE used the Venue Cymru event to Asaph is almost complete. gain a better understanding of the unique nature and challenges associated with the HSSE offshore renewables sector. www.hsse.co.uk

Ian Hughes added: “I found the supply Click to view more info chain event in Llandudno very useful in understanding what the client was proposing for the development of the Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm wind farm and how proactive they were www.rwe.com/gwyntymor in looking for local suppliers. RWE npower renewables www.rwe.com

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 07 INDUSTRY NEWS

Offshore wind TAG Energy Solutions played host to Danny Alexander MP said: “Offshore wind is a major part of our need to meet our the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, future energy requirements and we need to make sure that British businesses and Danny Alexander MP, during a visit to British workers are getting the benefit the North East of England from that. Companies like TAG are at the forefront and it’s so encouraging to Mr Alexander was given a tour of TAG Humber Gateway offshore wind see this business and the work it is doing Energy Solution’s 6,920 square metre farm to ensure we capitalise on what is a huge automated tubular production facility TAG is currently producing 16 monopiles economic growth area for the country.” and met a number of the company’s and transition pieces for E.ON’s prestigious skilled engineers and support staff. Humber Gateway offshore wind farm. Delivering now Alex Dawson, Chief Executive of TAG Production facility The project represents a significant turbine Energy Solutions, said: “We were delighted The facility has the ability to roll and weld foundation contract for a UK wind farm to welcome Mr Alexander to TAG. It gave large diameter tubulars and the construction to be awarded to a newly established UK us another opportunity to demonstrate of foundations including monopiles, tripods, manufacturer. to government that the North East has jackets and transition pieces. a vibrant manufacturing sector that is During his visit Mr Alexander met some not only geared up for the growth of the Located on a 42 acre site on the banks of TAG’s 150-strong workforce that has offshore wind sector, but is delivering now. of the River Tees, the production facility been established to serve the Humber is joined by a large construction hall, Gateway project along with a number of “With the support of government, the UK extensive wet dock, a blast and paint other contracts for the UK and German offshore wind supply chain can flourish facility and a 6000te load out quay. markets. and ensure that it can carve out a strong proportion of the market against the competition from the more established European supply chain.

“I am confident that Mr Alexander has seen first-hand the importance of the offshore wind sector to the UK, not only by securing a stronger contribution to the energy mix from renewable resources, but for the manufacturing and service sectors built to serve the sector that can make a considerable contribution to UK plc.”

TAG Energy Solutions www.tagenergysolutions.com

Click to view more info

Danny Alexander MP, left, with TAG CEO Alex Dawson, centre, meets Plating Apprentice Danny Brennan, 20, from Stockton

08 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS

“We are thrilled to receive such an esteemed award, which recognises the The one hard work of our dedicated team to date and the growth potential in an industry “Scour Prevention Systems has sector where this region is already a developed an innovative solution to a global leader,” said Robert. major industry problem and with the scale to watch of offshore developments off the East Lowestoft based start-up Scour “We’re looking forward to building on Anglian coast we’re confident that the Prevention Systems has won the ‘One that reputation as we grow the business. business has significant growth potential to Watch’ award at the East Anglian We’re currently finalising offshore over the coming years and will certainly Daily Times Business Awards 2013. sea trials of the system and are in be one to watch with excitement.”

Left to Right: Robert Durrant, Kevin Horne and Warren Hoskins-Davies

Innovative solution to a discussions with a number of wind farm The judges said, “Scour Prevention significant problem developers about potential applications.” Systems is a company with real potential The company, based at the OrbisEnergy in the emerging offshore renewables innovation centre, has developed an Scour sector. It is also environmentally sound, innovative and patented solution to Scour is a serious problem affecting any locally based and has aspirations for prevent scour around the base of offshore offshore structure in flowing water. It significant growth.” structures like wind turbines and over represents a considerable challenge for cables lying on the seabed. offshore engineers as it can compromise Angel investment stability and cause fatigue in marine The company, started in 2009, has A significant problem across the offshore structures. The rapid growth in offshore received “angel” investment and innovation energy industries, scour is caused by renewables has given a renewed grant support from the Technology the flow of water speeding up around or significance to the problem of scour. Strategy Board for offshore trials of its anti- over an object, creating a hole that gets scour solution on operational wind turbines progressively deeper. Sponsors NWES off the Norfolk coast. The award was sponsored by enterprise Ipswich event specialists NWES who are also co-sponsors Scour Prevention Systems Founder Robert Durrant and Project of the EADT’s Future 50. Kevin Horne, CEO www.scourprevention.com Manager Warren Hoskins-Davies received of NWES said, “The One to Watch award the award at a celebration event in Ipswich is about recognising an outstanding early on 4th July. stage business which shows the promise to become a success story of tomorrow.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 09 INDUSTRY NEWS

New boat hoist and support services in Gt Yarmouth Alicat Workboats Ltd recently unveiled and christened the yard’s new boat hoist during an open day attended by over 250 guests. The open day showcased the many new developments and divisions created by Alicat Workboats over the last few months.

Specifications The new boat hoist is a WISE 200TN and Support services Other onsite services is amongst the largest and most capable The hoist is part of the Support Services In addition onsite are new self-sustained in the UK. Specifically designed to suit the department of Alicat Workboats Ltd, which divisions including Alicat Marine Electrical requirements of existing clients and the offers a 24hr a day, 7 day a week capability (completing major UK and Worldwide increase in the demand from the renewable to support vessels in service along with a electrical design, installation, commissioning energy sector, the new hoist can lift vessels speedy and efficient service and spares and refit contracts), Alicat Fabrication, Alicat up to 11m beam and up to 200 tonnes in package solution. Precision Engineering (with two new CNC weight with four wheel steering to maximise machines) and based in a new office in manoeuvrability when placing vessels within Boat construction Southampton, Alicat Marine Design. the new concrete yard area. The company specialises in the construction of aluminium catamarans for ‘Boat in a box’ construction Unveiling and Christening the offshore wind farm crew transfer vessel The company has also pioneered the The hoist was unveiled by Nigel Darling, sector and is currently building vessels ‘boat in a box’ construction model, which a Director of Alicat Workboats Ltd. and for Dalby Offshore Ltd, E.ON Climate is proving successful. Arklow Marine christened by Dave Stringer, a former & Renewables UK Ltd. and Gardline Services in County Wicklow, Ireland are employee of Richards Dry Dock & Environmental Ltd. currently building two Alicat vessels for Engineering Ltd. and more famously as a Alicat Workboats Ltd and Dunston Ship former player and manager of Norwich City ACquisition Repairs Ltd in Hull are currently building Football Club. They have also recently acquired South multiple Alicat 20m and 19m vessels for Rix Boats IOW Ltd, based in the Isle of Wight Sea Shuttle Ltd. The new hoist has already successfully and well known and respected for their lifted ‘Waterfall’, a Gardline owned wind range of wind farm crew transfer vessels Alicat Workboats farm service vessel and is booked to lift a with craft currently in build for Seacat www.alicatworkboats.com Njord Offshore owned wind farm service Services Ltd, Iceni Marine Services Ltd and vessel for a propeller change. MPI Workboats Ltd.

International PR contract for TMS Media TMS Media has been appointed The Great Yarmouth-based agency will Commerce and the East of England Energy to publicise the massive business write and distribute press releases, case Group (EEEGR). opportunities that exist in the East of studies and features to print and digital England Energy Zone. media around the world. They will showcase Industry experience successful companies and highlight an “We are really pleased to have won the estimated £50billion worth of opportunities in competitive pitch for this work,” said oil and gas, offshore wind, renewables, de- Steve Scott, Managing Director of TMS. commissioning and nuclear energy. “We already work for several companies and organisations in the energy sector, Norfolk and Suffolk Energy supplying publicity, design and exhibition Alliance services. And we have well established TMS has been appointed by the Norfolk links with the national and international and Suffolk Energy Alliance, a consortium energy media through which we can tell of Norfolk County Council, Suffolk County the world about the amazing business Council, Great Yarmouth Borough potential in Norfolk and Suffolk.” Council, Waveney District Council, North Steve Scott Norfolk District Council, Norfolk Chamber TMS Media of Commerce, Suffolk Chamber of www.tms-media.co.uk

10 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk INDUSTRY NEWS

Atkins secures £2million contract with DONG Energy

Atkins has secured a contract with Project responsiblity Dave Parkin, Head of Power and DONG Energy Wind Power worth Atkins’ role in this extension programme, Renewable at Atkins, commented: £2million to extend one of their which will run until 2016, will involve the “This contract will further demonstrate existing wind farms. concept design, detailed design and our design capability to the offshore support during fabrication and final substation market and cements our Walney Offshore Wind Farm installation of two offshore substations position as a leading engineering and The Walney Offshore Wind Farm consists including both the jackets and topsides. design consultancy in the offshore of 102 turbines, each with a capacity of renewables sector.” 3.6MW, making it one of the biggest of Atkins’ technical expertise and experience its kind in the world. The extension, which in offshore engineering factored heavily in Atkins was awarded in 2010, will cover an area securing this contract. www.atkinsglobal.com of 145 km2 and is fully owned by DONG Energy. Brian Lauritsen, Engineering Manager, DONG Energy, commented: “As a Located approximately 15km off Walney market leader DONG Energy has always Island, Cumbria, in the UK’s Irish Sea, used high class consultancies for our the farm provides clean electricity for work. Atkins’ deep pedigree in offshore approximately 320,000 UK households. engineering from their 40 years of oil and gas experience, combined with their sector knowledge of our offshore renewable meant they were our first choice for the extension of Walney Offshore wind farm.”

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.

Brazil Windpower 2013 RenewableUK 2013 (incorporating International When 3 – 5 Sep 2013 Small and Medium Wind) Where Rio de Janeiro, Brazil When 5 – 7 Nov 2013 CONTACT www.brazilwindpower.org Where Birmingham CONTACT www.renewableuk.com Windaba When 25 – 27 Sep 2013 EWEA Offshore 2013 Where Cape Town, South Africa When 19 – 21 Nov 2013 CONTACT www.windaba.co.za Where Frankfurt, Germany CONTACT www.ewea.org CanWEA’s 29th Annual Conference and Exhibition When 10 Oct 2013 EWEA Technology Workshop Wind Power Where Toronto, Canada Forecasting CONTACT www.canwea.ca When 3 – 4 Dec 2013 Where Rotterdam, The Netherlands China Windpower 2013 CONTACT www.ewea.org When 16 – 18 Oct 2013 Where Beijing, China The Scottish Green Energy Awards CONTACT www.chinawind.org.cn When Friday, 6 Dec 2013 Where National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh CONTACT www.scottishrenewables.com

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]

12 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk WHAT’S NEW

RELEVANT Commercial training COURSES

Wind Farm Design & Intro to WindFarmer Weather Basics Course Click to Click to WHEN 10-11th September WHEN 3rd October view more view more WHERE Glasgow, Scotland WHERE Bristol, UK info info Organiser GL Garrad Hassan Organiser GL Garrad Hassan

Currency Risk Management Webinar NATIONAL FLUID POWER CENTRE Click to Click to When 11th September ‘INDUSTRY OPEN DAY’ view more view more Time 4:00pm – 4:30pm WHEN 19 February 2014 info info Organiser globalreach-partners WHERE National Fluid Power Centre, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, UK CONTACT www.nfpc.co.uk Gravity Foundations: Offshore Wind Click to When 1st October 2013 view more Where Edinburgh info Organiser www.concretecentre.com/wind

To advertise your course in the next edition for only £100 contact [email protected]

Magazine and website Forthcoming features interactive QR codes next edition You will notice that we have changed our pink and green • Spotlight on South East Coast of England - sponsored by flashes indicating more information online. QR codes ECITB have been substituted which means that you can scan • Business Development (Best Practice) the code with your smart phone and it will direct you to • Oils and Lubricants – sponsored by Hydac the featured company/organisation micropage held within • Offshore Logistics our website so that can learn much more in all sorts of • Research & Development – sponsored by Narec formats. • Risk Management • Commercial Diving • Problem? – Solved! • Legal Eagles – sponsored by Andrew Jackson • Focus on OrbisEnergy Centre • Grid Connections - sponsored by Royal HaskoningDHV • Condition Monitoring - sponsored by FoundOcean Sample QR codes Please scan • Fire & Blast Protection • Money Matters • Distributed Wind (small to medium) – sponsored by Ice Renewables

Please contact if you would like to be involved in any of these features.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 13 Jack-Up Vessels feature sponsor

Jack-up Vessels the giants of the industry One of the most exciting areas of the industry is the enormous projects which we cover for the magazine.

The sheer size of these projects have a number of advantages in management:

• No company is large enough to go it alone so collaboration is essential • Economies of scale bring down costs • Engineering problems which invariably crop up are solved in record time – we love the positivety in the industry i.e. “the answer is yes – now what’s the question?”

Massive projects call for massive equipment and it cannot be argued that the largest structures of them all are jack-up vessels.

We feature the companies involved and welcome MPI Offshore as our sponsors for the feature who firstly cover some of the onshore logistics issues involved in this opening article.

14 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor Jack-Up vessels

Project management and handling By using SPMT’s modular axles, by applying tried and tested lift plan engineering and by employing From experienced rigging crews that have been performing the lifting and onshore to handling on board the MPI vessels for the last decade, MPI Offshore is now offshore also able to be involved in project management and performance Whilst the evolution of wind power of onshore logistics for Trianel’s onshore has been constrained by the Borkum West Project - mobilising logistics of transporting via the existing Areva 3.6MW turbines out of the Port road/rail infrastructure and by the need of Eemshaven on-board the MPI of mechanical equipment to be present Adventure. in remote areas of Europe, the size and scale of the Wind Turbine Generators Whilst the WTG’s do require a rotor and sub-sea foundations for the star blade installation, the company offshore wind industry continues to is performing the handling of the grow – especially when considering components and the hub/blade the water depths involved in the Round assembly onshore on temporary three projects. stools and handling frames, employing their own experienced Innovation engineers and rigging crews working Installation contractors have reacted with a of the back of the installation of steady innovation in vessel design in order Siemens rotor stars on the Teesside to have the capability to handle these huge wind farm, which was serviced with components, with monopile foundations that the same vessel. can weigh up to 1,200Te, and can measure up to 80m long. However the supply chain Continuity and co-ordination needs to feed these vessels at the quay side Using the same contractor to for efficient loading and vessel utilisation. perform the onshore logistics and offshore construction processes Mobilisation port ensures continuity and co-ordination The nature of the contracts applied in of work along the critical path, whilst offshore wind farm installation projects giving the contractor a single point of often leads to the WTG manufacturer contact to address all construction having to deliver all components to a activities. mobilisation port before the Wind Turbine Installation Vessel (WTIV) is mobilised. Andrew Duncan MPI Offshore Logistics sequencing www.mpi-offshore.com The WTG design and chosen WTIV will dictate the exact sequencing of the logistics Click to view more info required to ensure an efficient ‘just in time’ delivery of the components to the quayside and under the WTIV’s crane hook. The = Click to view video need for this approach is dictated by: the constraint in the number of WTG’s the vessel can carry, the fact whether the WTG has a single or two piece tower, and the complexity of blade pre-assembly in a rotor star configuration vs. single blade elevation assembly at the offshore location.

Obviously the WTIV is to be at the quayside for a minimum amount of time to be efficient. This can be tricky keeping in mind there could be up to 48 separate items to load out on to the vessel whilst simultaneously several items need to be transferred from the vessel to the Quayside, all within 48hrs.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 15 Jack-Up Vessels feature sponsor Vessel scheduling Inadequate vessel scheduling has The latter two projects will be installed by Investment become one of the many logistical the same vessel, MPI Discovery, which will Due to the myriad of complications complications encountered in European be required to periodically transit between frequently encountered in offshore offshore wind. Developers are facing the sites installing a total of 153 turbines. development, vessel ownership and fleet substantial penalties for projects that The contracts are a result of a six-year expansion will continue to be a high-risk, overrun their allocated construction charter deal with E.ON who will now utilise long-term return, investment. Arranging period, placing pressure on vessel the vessel on many of their upcoming finance for such specialist vessels operators to ensure that delays in projects, ensuring they have the necessary becomes increasingly difficult when short delivery times are kept to a minimum. equipment at their disposal to optimise charters, rather than lengthy partnerships, available weather windows and to plan are being offered. In addition to the Significant market expansion appropriately for future developments. feasibility of repowering and the estimated The installation vessel market has rate of large component replacement, expanded significantly over the last 5 Securing the project pipeline firm commitments from developers will years to include a fleet of highly capable, An alternative to long term chartering be required in order for European-based specialised units. Heightened demand of jack-ups is for the developer to build owners to confidently invest further had previously resulted in back-to- and operate their own vessels. RWE resources. back contracts being issued years in Innogy welcomed two new installation advance, in the hope of ensuring that units in 2012 hoping to provide a secure, 4C Offshore installation schedules and charter periods complete and ambitious project pipeline. www.4coffshore.com run consistently. The utility of jack-up vessels teamed with the race to hit 2020 However, after stating that it would be renewable targets has rendered them a more financially viable to charter vessels pivotal part of the development process. from elsewhere, RWE has decided to sell the vessels towards the end of 2013. The Vessel availability lack of confidence in the current market Contracts awarded to MPI Offshore in was again highlighted earlier in the year, April this year highlighted the importance with the announcement from A2Sea that of vessel availability. The company will they are unlikely to invest in further new install at Swedish project Kårehamn, the builds until 2016 at the earliest. UK’s Round 2 Humber Gateway and Amrumbank West, located in Germany.

16 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor Jack-Up vessels Fabrication, welding and surface protection offshore A new process to enable Thermal enhancement 100% success fabrication, welding and ‘Thermal enhancement’ by Marske The company has developed, tested surface protection to be Site Services (MSS) is a technique that and have used Thermal Enhancement in delivered in an offshore insulates and warms a submerged connection with repairs to offshore wind environment has received full structure from the outside so that it can be turbines so far with 100% success. UK Patent approval with foreign worked on from the inside. rights reserved. They can provide the services of “This is a fantastic solution to an fabrication, welding and/or surface enormous problem that is facing the protection using the Thermal offshore wind farm and other offshore Enhancement Process and also offer industries” said MSS Director John licences to competent contractors on a McCullagh. “There are many offshore project by project basis. foundations that require repair by welding. Until now the delivery of high quality Marske Site Services work in the tidal zone or below the water www.marskesiteservices.co.uk line has proven to be very difficult, even impossible, in some circumstances.”

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 17 Jack-Up Vessels feature sponsor

Grøn explains that designing the vessel The first installation vessel was not simply a matter of increasing the size of an existing vessel, to fulfil its with pre-loaded know-how purpose the craft needed to be tailored to the requirements of the offshore wind In its 13-year history offshore wind installation specialists A2SEA has been involved industry. “The vessel was designed in the installation of over 1,000 turbines and more than 400 foundations. The Danish with UK Round Three zones in mind,” company (part-owned by majority shareholder DONG Energy alongside Siemens Wind he says. “It can take more components Power) has built up formidable experience in the sector and recently took its own step that a simple scale increase might slow towards realising the needs of an industrialised offshore wind sector with the arrival of because it has been purpose built to take Sea Installer, an installation vessel purpose-built for the offshore wind industry. particular offshore wind components.”

West of Duddon Sands The vessel can accommodate up to 60 “The main design criteria for the Sea Installer, delivered to Denmark in people on board and features excellent vessel was turbine installation,” Grøn December 2012, is currently working out crew facilities including the mess, a continues. “When design was started it of Belfast on the West of Duddon Sands cinema, gym and ‘The Comfort Zone’ was designed for ten Siemens 3.6MW offshore wind site. A ‘second-generation’ where crew shower and change from their turbines, but now, some six years later, vessel was designed to operate in the work clothes into their leisure clothes. with the development within the turbine more challenging conditions found in industry we are down to eight turbines, deeper waters further from shore that will She is equipped with a DP2-class type mainly because the weight of all the be witnessed in Round Three zones. dynamic positioning system and a Voith components has gone up.” Schneider propulsion system that allows Capacity her to change direction very swiftly. The “The vessel can also accommodate The vessel is equipped to transport and vessel’s propulsion system comprises piles for foundation installation. The install up to eight 3.6MW turbines (with three pivotable vertical blades on a thought behind the design was to carry built-in adaptability to accommodate 6, rotatable circular plate and is considerably components, including blades tower and 7, or 8 MW models as larger turbines faster than conventional systems, even nacelle, for all eight turbines,” he adds. become standard). She features a under extreme conditions with high reinforced deck capable of supporting currents and wind speeds. Twin sister vessel 15 tonnes per square metre and an 800 In 2014 Sea Installer will get a twin sister tonne crane that can slew 360 degrees. Second generation when A2SEA takes delivery of Sea “SEA INSTALLER is an example of what Challenger. This vessel is to be almost The crane is described as the vessel’s is called a ‘second generation’ vessel,” identical in specification to Sea Installer, workhorse and its lifting capacity has been comments A2SEA Project Manager but will feature a larger crane capable optimised for large-scale offshore wind Søren Grøn. “This means that it is a of lifting up to 900 tonnes (that’s a 100 projects. In addition to the main Gusto purpose-built vessel for the renewables tonne improvement on her sister vessel). GLC-800 crane, the vessel also has five industry. Before her arrival we had two The increased lifting capacity will meet the smaller cranes for other lifting tasks. self-propelled vessels and two barges – trend for the installation of larger and larger all were revamped vessels. turbines in offshore wind developments. Operation We are now dealing The vessel uses a four-leg configuration with a purpose-built A2SEA that offers better clearance and vessel; that’s the key www.a2sea.com manoeuvrability for her cranes than a difference.” six-leg configuration and can operate in Click to view more info water depths in excess of 45 metres and continue to carry out installations through challenging weather conditions. Her jacking = Click to view video system can raise the fully loaded vessel at a speed of approximately 1 metre per minute – twice as fast as standard jacking systems used in the sector.

18 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor Jack-Up vessels

“Drawing on our extensive experience, Construction contract for and based on feedback from discussions with clients across the supply chain, the world’s largest and most the design of Seajacks Scylla has been developed to meet the installation advanced offshore wind farm needs of jumbo-monopiles, jackets and installation vessel turbines of future wind farms in deeper waters and further from shore. Seajacks International has entered Seajacks into a contract with Samsung Heavy Seajacks is a leading offshore installation “We are delighted to be working with a Industries to build the world’s largest contractor that services both the offshore top tier shipbuilder in Samsung Heavy and most advanced offshore wind farm wind and oil and gas industries. Based in Industries. Samsung are recognised as installation vessel. the UK, the company recently expanded a premier offshore shipyard who have from its core market in the North Sea a reputation of delivering a first class Meeting the needs of Round 3 and North West Europe by establishing product. We are therefore confident that The vessel has been specifically designed ‘Seajacks Japan’ as a platform from which Scylla will be of the highest quality and to meet the demands associated with to service the Asian market. certain that she will be delivered on time for the commencement of UK Round 3.

“The arrival of Scylla will make Seajacks’ modern fleet of vessels unrivalled in the offshore wind sector for installation and maintenance of wind farms.”

Samsung Heavy Industries Harris Lee, Vice President of the Samsung Heavy Industries, said; “We are also pleased to be working with Seajacks, a leading offshore installation contractor. Since Scylla will be the most technically advanced unit in the sector, we will put our utmost effort into both the design and construction phases to ensure the best quality and performance of vessel.

Meanwhile, we are viewing the wind power market very positively and are therefore optimistic about the optional vessels.”

The vessel will be delivered in the second half of 2015.

Track record Since 2009, Seajacks has developed a working UK Round 3, Scottish territorial track record of over 830MW of turbines waters and the other North West European The company recently completed the installed and is currently constructing markets. Seajacks also has options for the successful installation of all 80 monopiles an additional 288MW at the Meerwind construction of an additional two units. at the Meerwind Offshore Wind Park on Offshore Wind Power Project in Germany. schedule, despite having experienced Named Seajacks Scylla, the new vessel significantly worse weather than Based in Great Yarmouth (UK), Seajacks is based on the Gusto MSC NG14000X anticipated this winter. As part of its role were acquired by Marubeni Corporation design and will be the fifth new self-propelled as Main Installation Contractor at the and Innovation Network Corporation of jack-up to join the Seajacks fleet since 2009. German site, they are responsible for the Japan in May 2012. Marubeni has a track installation of all turbines and foundations, record of over 96,000MW of installed Specifications as well as the scour installation, grouting capacity in Global Power and is also the The vessel will be equipped with a 1500t and noise mitigation for the project. largest international IPP in Japan. In 2011, leg-encircling crane, incorporate useable Marubeni aqcuired an equity stake in deck space in excess of 5000m2, and Blair Ainslie, CEO of the Seajacks Group, Gunfleet Sands (UK) wind farm. have over 8000t of available variable load. said; “Seajacks Scylla is a significant milestone for Seajacks and for the Seajacks Sailing at speeds of 12 knots or over, Scylla offshore wind industry. She is a Round 3 www.seajacks.com will be outfitted with 105 metre long legs vessel and is more technically advanced that have the ability to install components in than any other installation vessel that we Samsung Heavy Industries water depths of up to 65m. see on the market today. www.shi.samsung.co.kr/eng

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 19 Jack-Up Vessels feature sponsor Made in Abu Dhabi! The latest jack-up barge for worldwide operations Abu Dhabi-based Gulf Marine Fleet expansion Services (GMS), the largest provider of During the past five self-propelled self-elevating jack-up years, the company barges in the world, has announced has strategically it is building its third E-Class jack-up expanded its fleet, vessel GMS Enterprise. The company offering adaptable has a further option to build a fourth multi-purpose jackup E-Class vessel as part of its continued barges that can provide global expansion. a range of offshore services in the oil, gas December 2013 launch and renewable energy Like the majority of her nine sister vessels, sectors world-wide, GMS Enterprise will be constructed at from well intervention to the company’s quayside facility in Abu wind farm installation. Left to right: John Petticrew, Technical Director, Dhabi and is scheduled to launch this Gulf Marine Services; Zong Xiaojian, Deputy General December, ready for new contracts in Growth facility Manager, Sainty Marine Corporation Ltd. 2014. With the exception of the steel GMS, which has requirement from China, the modified offices in Abu Dhabi, Gusto jack-up will be built in Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and the UK, recently Specifications with the detailed design, jacking system agreed a USD 360 million growth facility GMS Enterprise has four legs and and outfitting completed by GMS’ skilled with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank that will allow provides a stable working platform with and experienced in-house team and a it to capitalise on the growing international accommodation for up to 150 people; local labour force. need for its vessels. The company’s this can be increased depending on key areas of operations are in the Middle the contract and configuration. Deck Why Abu Dhabi? East, South East Asia, West Africa, the machinery includes a 400 tonne main crane Duncan Anderson, Chief Executive Mediterranean and the Southern North and a 60 tonne auxiliary hoist. The vessel Officer at GMS, says: “The fact that Sea, with current commitments worth also has a 22.2m diameter helideck which we can build our vessels here in Abu around $460 million. can accommodate an S-92 helicopter and Dhabi is absolutely key as this allows us can operate in a water depth of 85 metres to produce these sophisticated niche Operational capabilities and travel at eight knots. assets at lower than market prices; at Mr Anderson adds: “Our E-Class vessels, least 30% less than our competitors can Endeavour and Endurance (built in Advantages achieve. The state-of-the-art design 2010) are technologically advanced and The vessel has clear advantages over and operational efficiency of jackup robust; they can withstand harsh weather conventional jackup barges (those with barges like GMS Enterprise means we environments and operate in deeper three legs and those which are not self- can also offer cost-effective solutions waters. GMS Enterprise will have further propelled). The jacking speed to move to our clients. This, along with our operational capabilities built into her from one location to the next in-field is excellent safety record, is what defines design and will be an important addition faster and safer with four legs as no ballast GMS.” to our fleet.” is required, and the weather window required for GMS to make the move is a few hours, compared to the average of three days.

The dynamic positioning (DP2) allows the vessel to move independently, with no need for anchor-handling or tug support, and ensures high accuracy positioning alongside platforms and pipelines.

Gulf Marine Services W.L.L www.gmsuae.com

20 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor Jack-Up vessels World first as new vessel installs eight turbines in single deployment

The first vessel in the world to deliver Installation Specifications and install eight complete turbines at Petter Faye Søyland, Project Manager Bold Tern and her sister ship Brave Tern, a windfarm site in a single deployment from Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, said: were designed and built to install similar is due to finish work on its first project “We load and transport the towers in and much larger wind farms including later this month. one piece, saving two lifts per turbine, foundations, and can also work efficiently once during loading and again during in the O&M market. Constructed in the Bold Tern installation. What’s more, by freeing Lamprell shipyard in Dubai, they measure Fred. Olsen Windcarrier’s Bold Tern, which up deck space, this approach allows 132m in length, with a mid-hull breadth was delivered by the shipyard in February us to carry up to eight turbines per of 39m. They operate in waters depth up this year, began work on the 30-turbine voyage, reducing the number of transit to 45m and have a crane capacity of 800 Riffgat windfarm in the German Bight in operations and sailing time. And after a tonnes at a 24m reach (102m over the April and is on track to complete its work significant learning curve, turbines are deck). The two vessels are among the according to schedule, with no significant now being installed in less than 12 hours. largest self-propelled jack-ups in the world. HSEQ incidents or vessel delays. Collaboration Fred. Olsen Windcarrier has two Bayard “There has been great co-operation service vessels also working on the Riffgat between the developer EWE, the project while Brave Tern and another turbine manufacturer Siemens Wind Bayard are currently working on the Power and Fred. Olsen Windcarrier 80-turbine BARD windfarm off Germany. to ensure that the site is being built safely and efficiently. Bold Tern and Fred. Olsen Windcarrier her experienced offshore supervisors, www.windcarrier.com supplied by Fred. Olsen related company Global Wind Service, are doing an Click to view more info excellent job.”

= Click to view video

Bold Tern with its payload of eight complete Siemens turbines en route to the Riffgat windfarm.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 21 SKILLS GAP update Humber leading the way...

When it comes to developing a hub for wind energy skills, Natural affinity the Humber is leading the way As many renewable technologies have found a home on and offshore in the Humber region, CATCH has noticed the natural Demand for offshore wind O&M technicians in the UK could top affinity they have with the area’s existing industry, particularly 10,000 by 2020, so it’s no surprise that training has become from a skills perspective. There are differences that have been such a hot topic. How do companies plan to equip their appreciated and identified by CATCH and the result has been a workforce with the engineering and sector specific skills they will concerted effort over the last 18 months to diversify CATCH’s need to operate and service the UK’s wind farms efficiently and offering by working with new providers to develop specialised safely? training facilities for the renewables sector.

Operations & maintenance bases Memorandum of understanding Just 7 miles from Grimsby where RES Offshore, Centrica, This includes the signing of a memorandum of understanding Siemens and Eon have chosen to set up O&M bases (with Dong between HCF (the operators of the CATCH facility) and 3C and RWE in the pipeline) the CATCH training facility thinks it may Humber, a new joint venture training organisation between have the answer. Grimsby based Blackrow Engineering and Norwegian offshore training experts AAK. This will see the conversion of CATCH’s existing 22m distillation column and supporting structures into a replica wind turbine tower that will be used to deliver safe rope access, dropped object, rescue & evacuation, work at heights, ladder working and confined space training for the rapidly expanding offshore wind and existing offshore oil and gas industries.

3C Humber Barry Taylor, Chief Executive of 3C Humber, explained why they are interested in coming to the CATCH facility: “When we came to look around CATCH it was obvious that the tower and surrounding structures were ideally suited for conversion into the type of facility we need to deliver our comprehensive training programmes.

Unique facility “This facility will be unique in this region, and right on the doorstep of the offshore operations and maintenance companies that are based in Grimsby. If all goes to plan, we hope to be delivering the first 3C Humber GWO and Renewable UK approved training courses at CATCH in January 2014.”

A vision CATCH was the vision of a group of Humber based operating Meet the providers at CATCH… sites, contracting companies and public sector organisations that recognised the need for a collaborative approach to skills, Mines Rescue Service and the positive effect this could have on the success and Mines Rescue Service has drawn on its experience of difficult competitiveness of the Humber region as an industrial hub. and potentially dangerous environments to develop a range of fully accredited health and safety courses including first aid, This vision was realised in 2006 when CATCH opened. Since firefighting, confined spaces and rescue. In partnership with then there have been two expansions, and the 10 acre, £12 CATCH, Mines Rescue have built a state-of-the-art confined million site now boasts an impressive list of facilities that are spaces training rig that has been approved by City and Guilds used to develop and deliver authentic, industrial training and for the full 6150 series. In addition, a new marine enclosed competence assessment for the Humber region and beyond. spaces facility has recently opened and by the end of 2013 there This includes a 3 storey process plant, confined space entry are plans to offer training and certification to Renewable UK and access zones, bunded tank farm, process simulator, Skills standards to satisfy the demand of wind turbine maintenance Enhancement Centre and engineering workshops. companies.

22 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SKILLS GAP update

Safety & Access Falls from height remain the single biggest cause of workplace deaths and a leading cause of major injury. Safety & Access, work at height specialists, offer expert advice and training in this high risk area. Their training portfolio includes courses for management and operatives, all delivered by experienced staff at CATCH, onsite or at one of their other purpose-built training centres. Their consultancy services include independent site audits, monitoring and inspections and health & safety consultancy.

Humberside Engineering Training Association (HETA) HETA operates from three sites across the Humber, including CATCH. The company trains around 200 Level 3 Advanced Apprentices a year for over 180 companies including Ecotricity, RES and Centrica Renewables. Apprentices come through a six-step selection process and 46 weeks training (Electrical, Instrumentation, Mechanical, Wind Turbine Technician or Welding & Fabrication) before going into company full time from Year 2-4.

They also offer industry courses including City and Guilds, Wind Turbine Technician NVQ’s, Small Bore Tubing, Mechanical Commex, 17th Edition, 2394 & 5 and a suite of Health & Safety courses.

Hull College Hull College recognises renewable energy as the Humber’s greatest economic opportunity, both in terms of capital investment and careers. Utilising the world class facilities at CATCH, Hull College is providing a new generation of young people with the technical and behavioural skills demanded by the energy and process industries. With a focus on STEM subjects and the development of transferable skills, companies can have confidence to invest in the Humber knowing that there is a ready workforce.

The Grimsby Institute Group The Grimsby Institute Group has three divisions at CATCH offering industry-recognised qualifications to upskill or retrain, including Fast Track to Process Operations, NEBOSH General Certificate & Diploma, NEBOSH Environmental Certificate and a portfolio of First Aid at Work qualifications used by the renewables sector. Courses take advantage of the excellent, industry-standard facilities at CATCH to support employers with their staff training needs.

Reynolds Training Reynolds Training recognises that the evolution of the Humber into a renewable energy hub is generating an increased need for independent health and safety oversight. Utilising the impressive facilities at CATCH with their engaging training style, they help renewable energy and other high hazard sites stay safe and comply with laws. Reynolds Training offers accredited courses including CIEH, IOSH and NEBOSH or can deliver bespoke material to meet your specific requirements including Permit to Work and Process Safety.

CATCH www.catch-uk.org

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 23 SKILLS GAP update

provision in the region and the industry’s New £11m energy skills potential needs for the future. complex to go ahead Nucleus for information EPISCentre will be a nucleus for Work could start in spring 2014 on an site. “It will co-ordinate skills training information, advice and guidance, making £11million centre at Great Yarmouth for all energy sectors and encourage it easier for people to find out more about to become the flagship for urgently and inspire individuals, schools and the energy industry’s careers and training. needed energy skills training across other interested parties to find out more It will also provide specialist courses or the East of England. about opportunities in the industry,” said allow access to equipment that other Mr Ainslie. “We expect it to become a trainers or colleges may not have. Energy Production Innovation national centre of excellence for energy Skills Centre (EPISCentre) industry skills.” Wind energy Business bosses want the EPISCentre Stephen Rose, Head of Offshore Wind project to move on quickly to prove Support Generation at SSE, said: “The East the region’s long-term commitment to He stressed that EPISCentre would of England has benefited from the producing skilled workers for the energy complement and support existing training construction of Greater Gabbard industry. It could prove vital in influencing providers and academic and education Offshore Wind Farm, which has an major international companies thinking centres - not duplicate them. operations base in Lowestoft, and there of investing billions of pounds into the will be further opportunities for local offshore wind, gas and new nuclear “It will be a hub at the centre of all the employment and suppliers through an industries. spokes. It is something that industry extension, known as Galloper.

“The announcement of the EPISCentre to help support training and development of the next generation of workers for the offshore energy industry is a further step forward for the region.”

Developing careers David Edwards, Chief Executive of ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board), said: “There is a common skills base across the An impression of how the EPISCentre complex could look energy industry whether in oil & gas, windpower or new nuclear and EPISCentre will help lead the way in developing careers, Delight leaders are driving and we must keep up not just jobs.” News that the project is to go ahead the momentum and reassure potential delighted Great Yarmouth MP Brandon investors that we mean business,” Employment potential Lewis who said the town was reaping the said Mr Ainslie, also Chief Executive of George Nobbs, Norfolk County Council benefits of becoming a renewable energy Seajacks UK. leader, said the council endorsed the hub: “The EPISCentre will be a fantastic project, and what it could do to work with symbol of the enthusiasm and dedication Perenco UK Operations Manager Keith the local industry to help bring it forward. of local businesses to support the Tucker agreed that the need for skills “We cannot overstate the employment delivery of skills into the energy industry.” was pressing and substantial and that potential that the energy sector will deliver EPISCentre offered a primary way to to Norfolk and Suffolk, but we must have Blair Ainslie, Chairman of the Skills for address the industry’s concerns. the means to deliver the right skills for Energy partnership, part of EEEGR (the the industry. The EPISCentre will do just East of England Energy Group), said: Target that and it will also greatly enhance the “The ultimate goal is for local people to Although the centre will be in Great attractiveness of our investment offer.” be trained locally for careers in a local Yarmouth, the exact site has yet to be industry.” revealed. The target is to commission EEEGR the complex later this year in time to www.eeegr.com Prestigious complex start building next spring. Both private Click to view more info First mooted two years ago, EPISCentre and public funding will be used for its is expected to cost £6m to build and will construction. house £5m worth of equipment, much of it already pledged. The prestigious In the meantime Skills for Energy has complex is expected to have conference, commissioned local consultants Nautilus classroom and workshop facilities on Associates to review existing training

24 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk SKILLS GAP update

design through to HR and logistics as well Women could help overcome energy as offshore technicians. industry’s skills shortage Energy Skills Foundation Programme He praised the work of the Energy Skills Foundation Programme, pioneered locally and being introduced nationwide, and the support of Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth Colleges and also the University of East Anglia which was on its way towards a full faculty for energy engineering. Recruiting skilled ex-military personnel was proving another great success.

Biggest influence Workshop sessions suggested that teachers, and particularly parents, remained the biggest influence on young people’s career choices and it was vital to give them a far better perception of the quality, attractiveness and rewards of work Shortage of skills is the biggest modern jobs in the energy engineering in the energy engineering sector. challenge facing the energy industry world, which many people mistakenly and a Norwich conference heard that thought of as dirty and unattractive. Culture change recruiting more women could help Ian Robertson, HR/Crewing Manager for resolve the problem. Of the 440,000 people in the UK Seajacks UK, suggested it might take a employed in the sector, only 10% actually culture change to prevent stereotyping, The need to develop more expertise to worked offshore and only 3.7% were almost from infancy, which kept females cope with growing demand for engineers female. away from engineering. It was seen too in the East of England was a constant often and by too many as a male career theme throughout the People: Powering “When women do come in, the talent option and the sector’s existing image The Future conference held by the Skills they bring is hugely valuable,” she said. was probably its biggest barrier. for Energy partnership at the John Innes Conference Centre. Collaboration Simon Gray, Chief Executive of the East David Edwards, Chief Executive of ECITB of England Energy Group (EEEGR), said: Specialist workshops (Engineering Construction Industry “Anywhere you go around the world Specialist workshops for around 175 Training Board), was one of many you hear Norfolk and Suffolk accents delegates also looked at how the image speakers to emphasise the need for because of the energy sector and of energy engineering careers could be collaboration across the industry and expertise we have here - and we need to improved for young people – and for innovative thinking about attracting people keep developing that.” parents and teachers likely to influence into engineering. them. EEEGR Demand for skilled workers www.eeegr.com Larraine Boorman, Managing Director of Blair Ainslie, Skills for Energy Chairman, oil & gas workforce development group spoke of the unprecedented demand Click to view more info Opito, called for the energy world to work for skilled workers in the industry even in together to deliver one clear message - times of austerity. It was a great career for for male and females - on the appeal of life and featured roles from finance and

training

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 25 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Solutions are not the answer! Trainer and Motivational Speaker FRANK NEWBERRY outlines a very practical, interactive problem solving process that you can use in your work team or at meetings and conferences.

A very straightforward approach He, like many of us, found it hard to stop “Would you sign my passport photo to solving work problems himself offering solutions immediately. please Doctor?” He replied in the A while back, a trainee consultant I was You may be familiar with the pejorative affirmative but was keen to know that coaching was having difficulty with what description of this approach. It is called everything else was OK. As I turned to I thought was a very straightforward ‘being prescriptive’. leave with the signature I could hear the approach to solving work problems. prescription being screwed up and tossed At the time I was reminded of a doctor I into the waste bin. Within moments of his fellow trainee or went to years ago in London who, whilst ‘problem owner’ identifying his work I was walking into his consulting room If we ‘write prescriptions’ for our friends problem, my lad was in his face barking would already be writing my prescription. and colleagues before investigating their solutions at him: “What you need to do is It made me smile as he would look up problems thoroughly then the waste bin is this” and “When we had a problem like and ask me what the problem was - as he probably the best place for them. that we did this.” continued to write.

Everyone in the training room roared with laughter and applauded enthusiastically

26 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

It was when my trainee became more has this been going on?’ What have you familiar with a very sensible problem solving tried already?’ ‘What worked with other process that he came up with a response people?’ and then the real detail on bus that we incorporated into all the training timetables, social habits, alarm clocks programmes we offered to consultants working or not, and so on. who had a ‘working’ background as opposed to an ‘academic’ one. Step Three: Identify potential causes When we have the clarity we need on the ‘Frank’ (he announced in the middle of a problem itself we can start team members practice session): or even people from other departments generating a list of potential causes for Step Seven: Implement likely ’I now realise that as far as problems are the problem, e.g. ‘not used to travelling solutions and monitor progress. concerned - solutions are not the answer!’ to this location’, ‘unreliable transport’, Finally, team members go their separate ‘up too late at night’ etc. On my Problem ways or get together to implement their Everyone in the training room roared Solving Workshops we aim to get a page preferred solutions or combinations of with laughter and applauded him full of potential causes or combinations of solutions. Experience has shown that enthusiastically. What he meant was causes for every problem identified. trialling or testing solutions can be more that ‘instant solutions’ and ‘quick fixes’ effective than just going along with perhaps have less chance of being Step Four: Identify most likely causes something you hope is right. As the trial successful than an answer that has been With a long list of potential causes we can period progresses adjustments can be crafted as a result of some investigation now invite the problem owner(s) to identify made as necessary. This approach is and analysis. the most like causes of their problem. much more encouraging than holding Perhaps as many as half might be chosen inquests into why a particular solution was or at least seen as being relevant to the not perfect. situation. Involve other people so that we get more ideas and insights The process is simple and practical and it could be argued that we are doing something just like it in our heads all the time. This might be true but it could make Let sense to involve other people so us look now that we get more ideas and at a simple seven-step insights in a logical process that can be operated by but quick-fire individuals but really comes to life when way. done in teams, like for example a group of colleagues or your own work team. Step Five: Identify potential Step One: Identify a problem we solutions might be able to do something about When the most likely causes have It may not be wise to spend too much been identified, team members can factor time wondering how we can change them into their thinking as they generate a the weather, but we might be able to list of potential solutions for the problem, Good luck tackle some new problems that are being e.g. ‘invoke the discipline code, ‘speak to with solving your caused by bad weather conditions. If we people from the same area’, ‘offer a lift for work problems and let us are working as a team we might need a trial period’ etc. Again on my workshops all strive to learn a lot more about the someone to take ‘ownership’ of the we aim to supply every participant with problem before we start writing out the problem e.g. the team member most a page full of potential solutions or prescriptions! affected by the problem who has the time combinations of solutions to pick from - and the motivation to tackle the problem. for every problem identified. Frank Newberry www.franknewberry.com Step Two: Gather information about Step Six: Identify likely solutions the problem At this point the problem owner(s) are It helps the process if the problem can be given time to consider which of the many expressed as a ‘How do I’ or ‘How do we’ potential solutions have real potential. statement such as ‘How do we get the They are then asked to make a selection new recruit to get to work on time every and report back to the problem solving day? At this point the problem solving team indicating which one(s) they have team has a clear focus and can quickly selected for implementation and why. This get started on bombarding the problem feedback helps the team to calibrate the owner(s) with questions in order to get the effectiveness of both the process and their clarity they need. For example ‘How long ideas for future similar problems.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 27 ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys

Ecology and its importance within the wind energy industry Since our inception some 4 years ago As Editor my own personal interest in Regular feature we have been speaking to companies the subject stems from managing Sites We plan to make this a regular feature if and individuals involved in the of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in an we receive sufficient relevant editorial, so important work they do in the ecology earlier career. please get in touch if you would like to get area relevant to wind energy. involved. We are therefore very pleased to introduce our Bird & Mammal feature and open this with an article from Baker Consultants one of the leaders in the field.

Methods of monitoring The use of passive acoustic recorders underwater noise makes it possible to collect data right from the initial stages of a project, providing How to address the challenges of the Marine information about the baseline ambient Strategy Framework Directive noise before a development is initiated. Without such a reference point, future measurements cannot be quantitatively The extensive offshore MSFD requirements assessed and the potential for biological developments that are planned to The MSFD requirements present challenges effects cannot be determined. be installed over the next few years for developers. Germany has responded around UK coasts have raised by imposing an absolute limit on noise The response of some animals to concern over the “health” status of production (160 dB re 1μPa) and it is boat based surveys may be to stop our seas. This has led governments possible that other member states will follow vocalising or leave the area, so this at a local and European level to put their lead. Such limits raise issues of how method of obtaining acoustic data can in place new regulations to ensure noise should be monitored and over what give an incomplete understanding of the that pollution introduced by these periods and protocols should be employed. soundscape. At the opposite end, some developments is monitored from the animals may be attracted to vessels pre-construction stage throughout Monitoring and therefore, one may overestimate the development’s lifetime. Boat-based monitoring is the current the presence of certain marine mammal standard for recording underwater noise species during boat based surveys. Good environmental status levels, but this method introduces noise One of the descriptors set out in into the environment and is costly. The Remote acoustic recorders the Marine Strategy Framework employment of full spectrum autonomous Remote acoustic recorders are now Directive (MSFD) as indicators of acoustic recorders in monitoring and extensively used in the terrestrial Good Environmental Status is the assessing renewables developments is a environment and are starting to provide “Introduction of Energy (including much more effective tool to monitor changes more robust monitoring data to justify noise) into the marine environment.” in ambient noise levels and the impact of the ecological decisions on developments. introduction of man-made noise. The marine environment is obviously more The impact of noise on marine life is a challenging but now subject to the same factor of increasing concern because Acoustic recorders rigours from regulators. The issue of scoping it can have significant impacts both in Autonomous acoustic recorders provide the noise aspect of each development at the short and long terms. Our detailed complete temporal coverage throughout all every stage is not ever going to get easier, knowledge of the effects of sound on weather conditions, simultaneous recordings but the equipment and expertise available to these species is limited and scientists from different spatial locations, transparent do it cost-effectively is advancing. agree that it is difficult to quantify them. evidence, and reduced field time. So far, a precautionary approach is in place to ensure that no permanent Temporal extension allows times for Andrew Baker harm is caused to species of concern construction to be identified based on in- managing Director whilst academics are looking into ways situ measurements, instead of relying on baker Consultants of assessing the extent of disturbance generalisations for an area or time. Static www.bakerconsultants.co.uk generated by anthropogenic noise recorders generate considerable amounts sources. Particular focus is put into of high-quality transparent data that are understanding the cumulative impact useful as an objective record of monitoring effects. efforts, which can be re-analysed for other purposes at later dates.

28 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 29 ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys Dr Beth Mackey in demand With the recent increase in the number that the noise during pile driving, of UK Offshore wind farms it’s no necessary for an offshore wind farm, surprise that Dr Beth Mackey, Royal would have little effect on the protected HaskoningDHV’s, marine mammal harbour seal population. expert is in demand. Having worked on marine mammals for 14 years Beth is With a background in academia and Zoology from The University of Aberdeen widely recognised in her field as one of consultancy she has a unique insight into and is regularly asked by the Government the world’s leading experts. understanding the needs of developers, and Statutory Nature Conservation regulators, and conservation requirements. Agencies to give scientific advice relating High profile projects the management of seal populations. Since joining Royal HaskoningDHV in Experience 2011 she has worked on some of the As one of the UK’s leading scientists, Research strength UK’s most high profile projects including and with her experience in wave and tidal Beth’s strength lies in her ability to the world’s largest windfarms Triton Knoll, energy, as well as offshore wind, Beth is confidently and accurately use cutting Firth of Forth, Dogger Bank and Dudgeon. increasingly being called upon to share best edge marine mammal research to aid both Her work is primarily about ensuring the practice. This year she was invited by the the marine renewables industry and the oil UK and EU marine mammal populations US Department of Energy to participate in a and gas industry. are not adversely affected by any major workshop in Seattle with over 35 scientists development. and engineers from around America and Royal HaskoningDHV Europe. The session centred on increasing www.royalhaskoningdhv.com Triton Knoll knowledge of monitoring needs around One of her recent assignments, Triton marine renewable energy devices. Click to view more info Knoll, was a challenging project to work on as The Wash and North Norfolk Coast Educational background is a Special Area of Conservation. Beth, Dr Mackey holds a Master of Science in through detailed assessment, determined Ecology and a Doctor of Philosophy in

30 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys

owls, marsh harriers and noctule bats. Never lose focus on bird and Technological advances such as automated SM2 bat detectors enable the collection bat surveys says RSK of more site information to inform impact assessments while reducing collection As understanding bat and bird Recent RSK projects reflect this expertise. costs. movements becomes increasingly The team has been involved in the Law important to wind farm environmental Commission’s review of UK wildlife Essential skill impact assessments (EIA), finely tuned legislation and has reviewed the Polish “The essential skill” says Boulter “is surveys are producing more meaningful Wind Energy Association’s bat guidelines. in understanding both the ecological data faster, at lower cost and to The latter highlights RSK’s growing receptors and the real potential impacts planning authorities’ satisfaction. involvement with the Eastern European of construction and operation before wind sector. integrating the two perceptively. These principles are at the heart of RSK’s environmental survey strategy, which it International work “Ecologists, engineers and designers uses widely in the UK and Eastern Europe, “International work helps us to interpret must co-operate to collect data relevant according to principal consulting ecologist, UK legislation more effectively and to to the impact assessment. Not all sites Simon Boulter. explore its origin. We compare each warrant a belt-and-braces approach country’s interpretation of European depending on numerous factors only Project relevance Directives. When the European understood by the project team.” Wind farm developers and consenting Commission reviews its legislation, authorities no longer want inventories of we note from the comments how Trust and experience every species within 20 km; they need future legislation may change in other Boulter adds “We want clients to trust to know what their project could actually countries. This can potentially avoid us and our experience. When a full suite affect. Relevance is very important. costly resurveys.” Boulter says. of site surveys is appropriate, they must know this is truly warranted and not “Our aim is to provide the precise Knowledge exchange because it is our standard approach.” information clients need to make key Work in Eastern Europe brings other decisions. That includes identifying advantages. The Black Sea coast is a RSK specific species and accurate major flyway for birds and large areas of www.rsk.co.uk assessments of what impacts, if any, a its western limits are designated as sites development could have on ecological of European importance for birds. receptors during construction and operation.” says Boulter. “These Natura 2000 sites require separate site-specific assessments to Understanding client goals define any impacts on site integrity. “We talk to clients at the outset to Identical processes apply to UK sites, so understand their individual goals and such experience helps with similar UK develop strategies that will generate vital projects.” Boulter notes. information. We work with the designers to understand the constraints or drivers The team is equally experienced with bat that could dictate turbine locations. Then surveys and well-versed in Bat Conservation we scope the habitats present before, Trust’s ‘Bat Survey’ guidelines. Used in even at this stage, starting to identify the conjunction with Natural England’s advice, potential ecological receptors. planning policy and conservation legislation, these ensure the consideration of bats Survey strategy design during the planning stage. “The next stage is to design an appropriate and proportionate survey strategy based Appropriate survey scale on the relevant guidelines and conservation In reflecting the spirit of various guidelines, legislation to collect information for a RSK believes that all survey efforts should robust impact assessment. be appropriate to the scale of the potential impacts. “Everyone wants data that answers specific questions about potential Where sites warrant impacts, enables projects to continue comprehensive surveys, these and guides mitigation strategies that involve site-specific survey benefit the species concerned.” he strategies and, often, concludes. the use of species- specific surveys, Team skills for example, With 30 full-time members, RSK manages for barn one of the UK’s largest dedicated ecological teams. “We pride ourselves on being pragmatic and experienced, while keeping abreast of legislative changes and technical advances.” explains Boulter.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 31 ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys

Avoidance is the best route Mitigation for European protected species such as dormice, bats and great crested Ecological pitfalls of route Early appraisal is recommended newts can be complex and may result selection A preliminary ecological appraisal can flag in delays to the programme. Licences Gaining planning permission for energy up ecological issues at an early stage. are required from Natural England and distribution infrastructure can be Paul Franklin, Principal Ecologist with receptor areas for species translocation challenging, especially where cable leading independent specialist Thomson may need to be created in some cases. routes cross natural environments with Ecology, has consulted on some of Avoidance of ecological issues should protected species and habitats. Advice Britain’s longest cable routes. always be the first consideration. from an ecological consultancy at the route selection stage is likely to save on “In our experience of some 300 miles Engaging the regulators costly ecological mitigation by avoidance of cable route, the initial ecological The experienced ecologist can play of high biodiversity value habitats such as survey and desk study has proved a critical role at an early stage with woodland and heathland. critical in determining the route of least regulatory bodies, as Paul Franklin ecological impact. We have found that explains: “We advise engaging with While there are many factors to consider surveying a wider area than might initially planners and regulatory bodies during during route selection for wind energy be proposed, allows for some careful the design process, this ensures that distribution, reducing the risk of planning routing to avoid protected sites such any local sensitivities and ecological consent difficulties on ecological grounds as Sites of Special Scientific Interest or issues are fully understood and should not be underestimated. European Special Protection Areas and habitats informs route selection. Engaging and national laws protecting wildlife and likely to support protected species such with other stakeholders at this stage habitats, including protected sites, can be as rare reptiles.” can be advantageous too. By allowing complex and require specialist knowledge communities and interest groups of the subject area. Offshore wind farms – quantifying the impact on marine life from man-made noise

Electricity generated at an offshore this considers wind farm is often thought of as green environmental impacts and sustainable, but is it entirely from all phases of the without risk to the environment? development from Constructing a windfarm offshore can construction and generate considerable levels of man- installation through to made noise. final decommissioning. Subsequently this is The construction and installation process submitted for review may involve hammering foundation by the regulatory piles into the subsea sediments; drilling bodies. foundation sockets into the basement rock as well as increased shipping for support In the context of an activities such as geotechnical studies and offshore wind farm, cable-laying to name just two. two specific studies are identified: the Add to the mix marine protected areas measurement of and European Protected Species (at least baseline underwater in UK and European waters) such as noise levels in the harbour porpoise, bottlenose dolphin and project area before grey seal – all of which may be sensitive any development has to disturbance; the potential exists for a taken place and an significant acoustic impact. assessment of the potential acoustic Gaining consent and European Commission directives on impact on marine life likely to arise during In general, it is necessary for the wind farm environmental regulations. These require various stages of the project. developer to gain consent for the project the authorities to have all the necessary from various regulatory bodies: in the UK information available so that they are able Measuring and analysing this duty often falls to the Department of to determine whether or not a development underwater noise Environment and Climate Change (DECC is likely to have a significant impact on the The significance of a man-made noise can In common with planning application environment. only be determined by noting its loudness procedures throughout Europe, consent relative to the prevailing background noise is only granted provided that there is As a result, an Environmental Statement levels. To help with this, Kongsberg can compliance with various local, national is commissioned by the developer and call on a range of underwater sensors

32 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk ECOLOGY: Bird & ANIMAL Surveys

to voice their The best solution for planning concerns we application are often able Making expert assessments at the early to allay fears by stages informs the planning of species showing how our surveys, which are dependent on the work with wildlife habitats and known incidence of species and habitats in a particular area. helps to preserve biodiversity and In a recent survey of heathland, across where possible which a cable route was planned, the enhance it. specialist survey team from Thomson This has the Ecology identified rare species including additional benefit Dartford Warbler, the nocturnal Nightjar of positively and sand lizards. By avoidance and reinforcing our incorporating mitigation, such as horizontal client’s reputation directional drilling at the design stage, for sustainability.” impacts on the habitat and species were avoided.

Thomson Ecology www.thomsonecology.com

including a hydrophone deployed over project team, including marine ecologists, based on ’in-house‘ solutions using non the side of a vessel and an autonomous underwater noise modellers and members peer-reviewed techniques this could seabed recorder that may be deployed of the regulatory bodies confer in order compromise the developer in the event for up to 6 weeks at a time sampling the to agree a project design that satisfies all that the environmental impact assessment prevailing noise levels. In each case at necessary requirements and constraints. documents become subject to scrutiny. the end of the deployment period, the To assist in this process and to help define data is downloaded and processed by the worst case scenario in respect of man- Growing demand for acoustic the Kongsberg engineers according to the made noise, Kongsberg has developed impact assessment client’s requirement. a ‘Quick-Look’ tool. This is an acoustic Offshore wind development is likely to propagation computer programme that remain a high profile activity over the next Acoustic propagation modelling provides a ‘first-draft’ estimate to the spatial few years if the UK is to meet its targets techniques distribution of sound pressure arising from for the generation of renewable energy. The environmental directives discussed each sound source in the development. Equally, environmental compliance must above require that a developer must assess remain at the forefront if development is the acoustic impact on the environment The alternative approach to Quick-Look to be undertaken in a sustainable manner. likely to arise from the proposed involves a fully comprehensive acoustic This article has shown how a combination development. Yet in the early stages of analysis which is time-consuming and of expert technical services with the best project planning and development the requires detailed information about both the available science may be brought together precise configuration of the wind farm noise source and the marine environment in order to quantify the acoustic impact of with regards to numbers and locations of in which it is operating. Each noise source developments on the marine environment turbines may not have been decided upon. must be defined in terms of its source and hence to minimise any potential level and its frequency spectrum over a disruption that may ensue. This uncertainty renders the task somewhat given bandwidth while the environmental problematic especially when it is necessary data must describe the bathymetry, Kongsberg to provide an estimate of the underwater oceanography and seabed geoacoustics www.km.kongsberg.com sound levels and potential impacts for each of the site in which the noise sources are constructional scenario being considered. located. Ed’s Note – Please note that this is an A full acoustic analysis for all scenarios may abridged version of a more take many weeks to achieve: this often The acoustic propagation programmes comprehensive article. This can be does not fit in with project timescales and themselves are technically complex accessed by scanning the pink QR Code can lead to considerable nugatory effort. and generate mathematical solutions to below or clicking on the online link. the Elastic Wave equations. In order to Flexibility achieve this, the programmes make use Click to view more info The regulatory authorities allow for a of mature and rigorous mathematic and degree of flexibility in the plans that are scientific methodologies that have been eventually submitted to the consenting reviewed extensively in the international process provided they incorporate the literature over a number of years. This worst possible case from an environmental point is considered to be of fundamental impact perspective. To address this, the importance. If acoustic modelling is

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 33 Lubricants feature sponsor Oil condition monitoring network for windfarms

We continue our regular lubricants Data security SENSORS feature with a look at condition However, a concern was raised regarding The package of sensors selected for this monitoring on gearboxes and start security of the data being transmitted to application was crucial. the feature with more sound expert the company’s UK premises; this was advice from our sponsor Hydac. resolved by transmitting solely via a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunnel. An Whether a wind turbine is newly installed or mGuard security router was installed at the reaching the end of its warranty period, oil premises to guarantee a secure connection condition monitoring on the gearboxes can to the 3G router at the wind farm. prove to be a beneficial cost-saving tool for the turbine owners and manufacturers, providing predictions and early warnings prior to possible gearbox failures.

Working with owners and manufacturers, Hydac can help to design and supply a stand-alone condition monitoring network for the wind farm. The company has Particles developed a turnkey solution that includes The MCS 1000, certified by Germanischer data acquisition and data transfer units. Lloyd, monitors metallic particle contamination in lubrication fluids. The Challenges particles are detected by inductive One of the challenges faced was the measurement in which a coil system is lack of Ethernet infrastructure on the the core element of the sensor. It detects majority of wind farms, which hinders the metallic particles (ferromagnetic and non- handling and collection of data. It required Once a VPN secure link to the master ferromagnetic) > 100 μm in size. The MCS a solution that allowed remote access to wind turbine had been established, the 1000 continuously monitors the condition each individual turbine, to do away with next challenge facing the company was of the system and provides information the expense of having two engineers climb accessing data from the CMU data on any early-stage damage. The sensor the turbine to download the data locally. loggers installed in all eighteen wind is therefore a reliable tool for condition- turbines. Having decided to use just one based maintenance. One example where the company has 3G router to feed the data back to the been proactive in addressing this issue is master turbine, to reduce data costs, the in partnership with Phoenix Contact. The best solution was to use a Wireless LAN solution implemented was based on a Access Point. This was wirelessly linked router using mobile technology. Using a to the other wind turbines using Wireless 3G router, LAN Clients, as a result, both data and Hydac cabling costs were significantly reduced. achieved a high speed Remote access and remote monitoring remote of data are handled in a secure way, link to the eliminating downtime and increasing master wind efficiency and productivity. Service turbine. contracts are now available and can be tailored to customer’s requirements. Proactive This allows data to be pulled from the Water condition monitoring unit and to analyse The Aqua Sensor AS 1000 is designed for the data remotely at their base in Witney. online detection of water saturation in oils. It The premise behind this technology was measures the water content relative to the to enable them to monitor the integrity saturation concentration (saturation point) of the wind turbine gearbox remotely, and relays this as a 4 ... 20 mA signal. and therefore warn the customer of any In addition the AS 1000 measures the early signs of failure. This whole concept temperature of the fluid and also provides is designed to be proactive rather than this as a 4 ... 20 mA output signal. The reactive. AS 1000 therefore enables hydraulic and lubrication oils to be monitored accurately, continuously and online.

34 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor lubricants

particularly advantageous when setting For the proactive operator who may be on alarm limits for the maximum particle the other side of the world, the “remote” count per time period. version of CM-Expert provides constant and timely online information about the The data is typically saved in a CSV format condition of the system, also possible allowing for easy interrogation in Excel and via satellite, in real-time. In addition, CM- transposing into easy to view trends. Expert can trigger alarms automatically, This data can be backed up locally as log the actual system condition live, help well as logged remotely to a PC using with the prediction of early failures and HYDAC’s CM Expert. help with the planning of maintenance. Oil Ageing Costly maintenance carried out The HYDACLab® HLB 1300 is a Integration into SCADA systems unnecessarily early, as well as unplanned multifunctional sensor for online monitoring The company has recently developed interventions could therefore become a of the condition of standard oils and bio a Fieldbus Communicator Module that thing of the past. oils in industrial and mobile applications. connects the Hydac HSI Smart Sensors The user receives real-time information (CS1000, MCS1000, AS1000 & Hydac CM-Expert monitors, displays and logs on oil characteristic deviations in their Lab) directly into all the major SCADA the data transmitted by the sensors and fluid and can take immediate action in the Fieldbus interfaces. The Fieldbus detects changes emerging in the system. case of deteriorating operating conditions. Communicator Module interfaces to all the Experience developed over decades and Changes in fluid condition might occur major SCADA Fieldbus interfaces including the reference data accumulated means due to ageing or mixing with other fluids : - CAN, CANopen, CC-Link, ControlNet, that production-relevant parameters, such and are indicated by measuring the DeviceNet, EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, FIPIO, as remaining service life, service intervals relative change in dielectric constant, the Interbus, Modbus Plus, Modbus RTU, and risks, can be analysed and evaluated relative humidity and the temperature. Modbus TCP, Profibus and Profinet.

Data Acquisition HYDAC’s CMU 1000 allows network connectivity and the display of sensor values. It has the potential to connect up to 8 analogue sensors, either HYDAC or a third party, and 8 HYDAC Smart sensors, such as the MCS 1000 MetallicContamination Sensor, AS 1000 AquaSensor, HLB 1300 HYDACLab® oil condition sensor, and is capable CM Expert – in good time and long before a stoppage of displaying up to 32 measurement HYDAC CM-Expert is a powerful monitoring threatens. The CM-Expert software does channels. system for use with any standard PC device. not just work with HYDAC sensors and Its decentralised configuration makes the actuators but also of course with other Collection of data system extremely reliable and flexible for use brands without restriction. The collection of data is a key aspect in in fluid power systems. Since the controller any condition monitoring system. The is specific to the particular purpose, there Dan Sibley, Tobias Daley & Mark Harries MCS 1000 presents the CMU with an is no limit to the number or type of sensors, HYDAC incremental count of particles whether actuators, operating and signal components www.hydac.co.uk they are ferrous or non-ferrous. The which can be connected, or to the control CMU’s simple programming environment tasks and data exchange with other systems. Click to view more info allows for the incremental count from the MCS to be calculated which results All common physical parameters can in much more practical values, e.g. the be recorded by the data acquisition unit number of particles per day or particles and processed: temperature, pressure, per hour for example. The data is thus differential pressure, viscosity, water clearer and more user-friendly which is content, particles, flow rate, level etc.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 35 Lubricants feature sponsor

Engineering high performance lubricants for the wind sector For wind turbine operators, the importance of using balanced formulated lubricants cannot be overstated

Wind turbines are highly engineered As part of the research and development and sophisticated pieces of machinery programme for the product, the company that must operate in some of the undertook a series of standard tests most demanding conditions. They are to assess the ‘overall’ performance vulnerable to wear, water contamination, of Mobilgear SHC XMP 320 against rust and corrosion. Given the costs other synthetic gear oils available in the associated with routine maintenance trips, marketplace. While XMP 320 delivered in-service lubricants must last as long as exceptional performance across all possible, with some operators looking for critical areas, the chart featured shows lubricants that deliver oil drain intervals up some competing synthetic gear oils are to and beyond five years. formulated specifically to deliver exceptional results in one area, but often sacrifice To be sure they choose lubricants that performance in other areas. Only by can operate for such extended periods, selecting an oil with a balanced formulation wind turbine operators need to look for can operators expect to maximise lubricants that provide exceptional ‘overall’ productivity across all parameters. performance to maximise productivity and extend oil life.

Developing next generation lubricants ExxonMobil helped pioneer synthetic lubricant technology, and continues to devote significant resources to product research and development. No wonder that the company develops lubricants that deliver exceptional performance across a wide range of critical parameters, including oxidative stability, component wear protection, corrosion control, filterability, shear stability and extreme temperature performance. ExxonMobil Research & Engineering Importance of balanced formulations To best protect vital wind turbine components, such as the main gearbox, it is essential to use a balanced formulated lubricant, such as the high-performance synthetic gear oil, Mobilgear SHCTM XMP 320. To help maximise productivity and reduce unscheduled downtime, this oil has been formulated to offer high levels of performance in wind turbine gearboxes.

36 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor lubricants

balanced formulation In addition to Mobilgear SHC XMP Today, Mobilgear SHC XMP 320 is used 320, ExxonMobil offers a wide range of to protect more than 40,000 wind turbine lubricants that are formulated to deliver gearboxes worldwide and is the initial fill exceptional protection for all parts of a gear oil of choice for the majority of the wind turbine, including synthetic greases world’s top wind turbine builders. Even to lubricate bearings and hydraulic oils that when it is not the initial-fill gear oil, wind help pitch rotor blades. turbine operators frequently choose it for second-fill applications when the initial ExxonMobil turbine warranty is up, usually after three www.mobilindustrial.com to five years. Click to view more info It’s the expertly balanced formulation of this oil which delivers balanced performance and offers real value to wind turbine operators, supporting their efforts to reduce the total cost of operations and increase productivity.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 37 RISK MANAGEMENT Safety Cases You either love’em or hate’em! ...but implement them effectively and everyone will come to love them

‘Safety Cases’ well and truly divide opinion. Some see them as an isolated exercise 1) A Safety Case is not just of complex analysis and written work that does not reflect the real world. Others about the destination, it’s about see them as a large pile of documents produced to get somebody off their back the journey too! before they sit on a shelf gathering dust. Whilst regrettably there is evidence to Whilst a Safety Case is the written justify these views, the more informed recognise that a Safety Case approach demonstration of why a plant, facility is an excellent way of ensuring projects are conceived and executed safely and etc. is safe, it should not be seen as a ultimately provide the written demonstration that your plant, facility etc. is safe. But retrospective justification and certainly not they are not just about the ‘now’. They provide a framework and focus for ensuring a piece of creative writing to ‘get away safety throughout the project life-cycle. They provide assurance that everything is with’ an inadequate solution. A truly safe and will continue to be safe! outcome can only be achieved by fully integrating design and safety assurance But is a Safety Case approach relevant and appropriate for the wind industry? For the activities. The documentation of this majority of onshore wind farms in remote, rural locations, the answer is most likely to process is arguably the most important be ‘no’. The potential risk to people, assets etc. can be readily discounted through element of a Safety Case. That is why it observation and judgment without the need for an ultimate Safety Case. For offshore is called a Safety Case ‘approach’; you wind farms the situation is quite different. Managing offshore assets, and in particular build and develop the Safety Case as the getting people on and off safely, presents a number of significant challenges and risks. project progresses. Also, similarities with offshore oil and gas facilities presents inevitable parallels with an established Safety Case culture. 2) Don’t re-invent the wheel; look to other Industries Risktec concludes its series of articles on risk management by providing a series of tips Safety Cases have been around a long on how to develop a Safety Case for an offshore wind farm, building on the principles, time in other industries; particularly tools and techniques and proportionate approach discussed in previous issues. Nuclear Power and Oil & Gas. A huge amount of time and effort has gone into developing these approaches. Use this to your advantage. Cherry-pick the best What is a Safety Case? bits for your offshore wind farm Safety Case. This does not need to be limited to Safety Cases are detailed documents demonstrating that facilities are the overall approach and structure. Use designed, constructed, commissioned, operated and decommissioned in and adapt their tools and techniques to such a way as to minimise risks to personnel, the public and, for HSE cases, build your case; the ‘Bow-Tie’ technique the environment. They; pioneered in the Oil & Gas Industry [see Dec’12/Jan’13 issue] and the ‘Claims, • Demonstrate to management and employees, investors, contractors and, Arguments & Evidence’ approach used where relevant, the Regulator and/or the Public that adequate controls are in in the Nuclear Industry [see Figure 1] are place to ensure that the major HSE risks arising from a particular operation are two good examples. both tolerable and reduced to as low as reasonably practicable [ALARP].

• Provide a reference point for everyone involved with facility operations to define the requirements for effective control of Safety issues.

Imagine giving someone a document on their first day working at your facility. It describes the facility, operations and processes very clearly. It identifies the potential risks and provides appropriate, proportionate arguments and evidence to demonstrate that they have been reduced ALARP, referencing more detailed studies and defines what needs to be done to maintain this position. They find it easy to read and continuously refer to it as they get up-to-speed in their new role. This represents a good Safety Case!

38 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk RISK MANAGEMENT

Figure 1; Example use of ‘Claims, Arguments, Evidence’ approach to justify Integrity of Offshore Wind Turbine foundation

3) Proportionality is key! A major benefit of a Safety Case approach 8) A Safety Case is no guarantee The level of detail, analysis etc. you is the sharing of knowledge, experience of future safety present in your Safety Case must always and best practice along the journey. Once you have written your Safety Case be proportionate to the associated risk. don’t just stick it on a shelf and rest on Too little and your Safety Case will be 6) Safety Case v Occupational your laurels. Remember, it’s action that inadequate. Too much and you’ll waste Health and Safety Management reduces risk, not paperwork! You must valuable time, effort and resources and System [OHSMS] use it to retain focus on safe operations degrade the perceived value of the Your Safety Case doesn’t need to whilst making sure it is updated to exercise. This is particularly important go back to first principles to ensure/ reflect the evolving nature of the facility. when cherry-picking tools and techniques demonstrate your wind farm is safe. Also, things inevitably get missed. Don’t from higher hazard industries. As such, Your corporate and/or wind farm specific become blinkered to new hazards/risks. Safety Cases can be large and complex OHSMS should provide a framework for Ensure emergent issues are folded into for say a nuclear installation [complex and safe operations. Rely on your OHSMS the Safety Case as they arise to ensure highly hazardous] or be very brief and [see Figure 2] and use it to simplify your they are managed effectively. It must be simple for less complex, less hazardous Safety Case and ensure a consistent a living document that reflects the actual facilities such as wind farms. approach across all your wind farms. plant status and mode of operation otherwise it is worthless. This takes effort 4) Understand the scope of your and commitment and must be factored Safety Case into your resource plans. You must be clear on what plant, operations etc. your Safety Case is We can’t tell you what a safety case covering. Whilst clearly it will cover process should look like for your the wind turbines, it is unlikely to organisation because of the diversity cover the onshore substation or of the industry and the internal access vessels as these will likely be management arrangements within operated by others. That said, it must your organisation. But if you follow the dove-tail with the safety justification for principles above you’ll end up with a these to ensure all interfaces are fully valuable, proportionate process tailored understood and mutually achieved. Figure 2; Safety Case and OHSMS to the needs of your organisation that Interfaces doesn’t leave a bitter taste in your mouth! 5) Involve all Stakeholders You must involve all stakeholders to 7) A ‘Life-Cycle’ Safety Case Gareth Ellor ensure that the above interfaces are It is important that you identify key Safety Risktec Solutions Ltd adequately managed. Involving people Case milestones at the outset of your www.risktec.co.uk with hands-on experience in all aspects project. How and when are you going to of the design and operation of a wind demonstrate your wind farm has been farm is critical. They know what goes on designed, constructed, commissioned, in the real world! They will bring valuable operated and decommissioned safely? experiences from other projects which will Can these milestones be combined? What help make your Safety Case more robust. structure is appropriate for each milestone?

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 39 all in a days work

1998 he moved to the UK and completed a Masters Degree in Energy Systems and the Environment, graduating in 1999 All in a and looking for employment. With limited job opportunities he set a different course and attended an evening class for entrepreneurial studies whereupon he gained experience in day’s work strategic planning. Successfully acquiring a grant, his engineering consultancy Christos Kolliatsas of Mott was formed. However, as is the way with specialist projects Macdonald and unforeseen delays, this ultimately led to the demise of his business. He looks back and admits there was a touch of Occupation: Wind Leader and Board Member of naivety, but his spirit was not to be quashed. In the wilderness E european Wind Energy Assocation (EWEA) of the job market he undertook various roles to support himself Habitat: Glasgow until he happened upon an open day in 2006 for engineering vacancies. And so the next chapter begins.

Ahead of his time... New Chapter It was a foregone conclusion from a very early Christos joined Mott age that Christos would be a shining light within MacDonald, a global the renewables energy field. His enthusiasm engineering, management was borne from a genuine interest and care and development for the environment. Matched with the first consultancy with over flickers of enthusiasm and a strong belief, he 15,000 staff worldwide, became the founder member at his high school exposing him to diverse to instigate a recycling programme, bringing on experiences. He has board his fellow class mates. subsequently been involved in significant This was entirely run by the students with no challenges and input from his tutors. Breaking the mould, and opportunities within the adding yet another ‘first’ to his list, he became fields of renewable energy. one of the first members of Greenpeace in His journey involved a Greece. rounded approach to all sectors of the renewable HIGHER education energy market including Upon leaving school he studied for an wind, hydro and solar. He engineering degree, undertaking his thesis on also got involved with gas, ‘renewable energy sources’ which in those oil and coal projects, of days was a little know field - Christos began which he learnt there were to share this knowledge , within an education a lot of synergies between capacity to various organisations and these sectors, allowing him institutions. a broad overview.

In Are you looking for a specialist service supplier with experience in the wind energy industry? With 1200+ companies listed, it is the website to find an expert

Renewables in South Africa With different projects come different challenges, and it is The Christos’ role to bring lenders together with sponsors – which Click to view Communication he relishes. An ideal candidate due to the nature of the lender’s more info Hub for the Wind Energy Industry

40 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk all in a days work

engineering work, he was asked to co-ordinate the introduction behalf of the banks. It was imperative that a good rapport with of renewables for the whole of South Africa. the project’s management was established. Should problems be flagged, it was his responsibility to work together with the As Project Manager, he worked together with a number of project’s management and agree solutions to ensure the project professionals from the legal and financial community and was kept on track. Christos has a similar role for the Thornton supported the South African government’s stake holders Bank project, the first 1 billion euro ‘project in the water’, as well (National Treasury and Department of Energy primarily) to come as another three concluded project financed offshore wind farms. up with a renewables programme for the country. Traditionally South Africa had been a ‘dirty producer’ as the majority of its Relaxation electricity supply comes from coal so this was a major shift in the It is an acquired art to achieve the balance between professional country’s energy mix. and personal life, however he strives to be home at a reasonable hour to spend time with his wife and two young daughters. Work started in 2010 and within 3 months, Christos and the team came up with a renewable programme to cover: wind/ Aims & Aspirations photovoltaic/solar thermal/small hydro/landfill gas/biomass/ “To change and progress; to ultimately achieve my potential - biogas for the whole of the country. with a caveat - without compromising my personal life”

Following its launch, the programme is arguably one of the most It is evident Christos is passionate about his role within important renewable programmes in the world and has allowed the industry. He states the world is buoyant with endless for a huge window of opportunity for prospective renewable opportunities – and that sometimes we forget the positive impact developers. Following the success of the first two rounds, round renewables have on the world. He feels it is this generation who 3 is currently open with evaluation of bids expected at the end of have the ability to right the wrongs that have been previously August 2013. Christos feels honoured to have been part of the done too our planet. This, he goes on to point out was due to successful emergence of a renewables market in South Africa. lack of knowledge then. However, we know now how not to compromise the future for our children. Typical Day No such thing as a typical day. Working with a team of 25, Fliss Chaffer communication is paramount. He plays a part as the ‘glue’ Wind Energy Network between the regional offices, line management and undertakes weekly meetings. He also attends conferences, and undertakes Mott MacDonald interviews for various publications (ours included!). Based in www.mottmac.com Glasgow, his role takes him all over the word, Taiwan, USA, South Africa and Europe.

EWEA As a board member of EWEA he attends quarterly board meetings and supports a working group for financing of the association. He feels it is important to give something back to the industry and his passion is clearly evident when speaking with him.

Inspiration His inspiration comes from many different things in life, from his clients, learning what experiences they have had to go through to make things happen, to the simple joys in life, such as spending time with his daughters. Such experiences put things into perspective.

Mentor John Porter, who has been with Mott MacDonald for many years (now semi-retired), has been almost likened to a father figure. John was a mentor to Christos and helped him get to grips with the requirements of project financing. Christos states he is one of the few people in the world who knows how a lender thinks.

Memorable Experience His role dictates much travel and wide range of duties, one such experience, almost surreal, was when he ascended one of the wind turbines on the Prinses Amalia wind park. Upon opening the hatch he was met with a bird’s eye view of the great expanse of the North Sea, on a beautiful day a memory not to be forgotten. This was particularly poignant as it was the world first wind project to be non-recourse financed by the banks.

Christos was the lenders’ technical advisor on this project and was involved in due diligence for a small part. However, his main responsibility was to monitor the progress of the construction on

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 41 Legal eagles feature sponsor An understanding of wind energy With the Government unveiling As renewable energy can be generated Wind energy details of reforms and how with low or zero carbon dioxide emissions, Wind energy can be captured using wind it will unlock up to £110 it plays an important role in combating turbines, often grouped together as wind billion energy infrastructure climate change. It also plays an important farms. Wind is used to rotate the turbine investment, renewable role in ensuring security of energy supplies blades, which turn a generator to produce energy law specialist Martin since it reduces dependence on imported electricity. The capacity of wind turbines Collingwood looks at the fossil fuels. is determined by the length of the rotor options available in this blades, with longer blades producing dynamic sector. Renewable energy sources more output (as there is more contact with include… the wind). Commercial turbines range in • Wind power capacity from a few hundred kilowatts to Types of renewable energy • Solar power over 6 megawatts (MW). Renewable energy is energy that is • Wave and tidal power generated naturally and continuously in • Hydroelectric power the environment, as opposed to energy • Biomass generated using oil, coal, gas or nuclear • Biofuels power. The UK has potentially rich renewable resources, in particular… • A long and windy coastline, as well as high tidal ranges • An existing onshore and offshore energy industry and a strong technological research and development base

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An understanding of wind energy Turbine location Offshore Microgeneration Wind turbines can be located either Offshore wind turbines that are located Microgeneration is the generation of onshore or offshore. However, wind close to the shore line (typically within 2-8 electricity and heat on a small-scale using turbines are usually located where… miles of the shore line) are referred to as renewable or low carbon sources. It is a • The average wind speed is at least 10mph ‘nearshore’ farms and those located out to way of providing electricity and heat on- • There is a near constant flow of low sea are referred to as ‘offshore’ farms. site or near-site (rather than through the turbulence wind national grid and central gas network) to • There are infrequent powerful bursts of Offshore wind speeds are also higher than individual residential and non-residential wind over land (as the sea has less surface sites. This is closely related to distributed • There is good access to the National resistance) so they can provide more energy systems. Microgeneration Grid generating capacity. technologies include Micro-wind turbines.

Onshore However, offshore development is much Onshore wind turbines are typically more expensive than onshore because… martin Collingwood located on ridge lines to take advantage of Andrew Jackson Solicitors the acceleration of wind as it is forced over • Foundations are expensive to construct www.andrewjackson.co.uk a ridge. However, hill top sites are often • Undersea transmission cables are controversial as the turbines are visible more expensive to lay than onshore Click to view more info from a large area and may interfere with cables bird migration and nesting. If located near • Power is transmitted using high houses, noise, TV reception interference voltage direct current (to reduce or shadow flicker may also be an issue. transmission losses), which then requires expensive transformers to convert the electricity to the required voltage Corrosion of wind turbines and towers can increase maintenance costs • Repairs and maintenance are costly as access is difficult

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 43 Legal eagles feature sponsor

inadvertently find your company paying tax requirements to withhold Dutch wages, Important and employee social security contributions in tax and social security (compare PAYE). information the Netherlands as well as being required to register its employment services. This also Legal & employment implications for foreign applies to employers and hirers. There will also be legal and employment implications particularly with regard to suppliers of In addition to being registered it will also what may be considered to be mandatory labour to the be necessary to show that the Dutch provisions such as pensions, collective Wages Tax Act and local employment law pay organisation and obligations, Labour dutch market is being complied with where appropriate. Inspectorate and Immigration who will check A UK company supplying labour to that the employment in the Netherlands another company in the Netherlands Government expectorate complies with local agreements and rules. whether working in the Netherlands or Registrations are now being checked off-shore, may inadvertently find itself by the Dutch Tax Authorities, Labour Check other commercial arrangements liable to be registered which may have Inspectorate, Immigration Authorities as well that these do not fall within the requirement important tax as well as other legal as organisations of collected employers and to register. In the case of the provision of complications. collective pension funds who are interested personnel or services there should be a full in enforcing labour agreements. agreement with indemnities for liability. Registration obligation Since 1 July 2012 the registration Who will be affected? Before registration with the Chamber of obligation for ‘Intermediaries Providing • Non-Resident temporary employment Commerce check the tax, social security Personnel’ Act came into force. This and secondment agencies who supply, and employment law implications. means that UK companies supplying e.g. temporary workers off-shore in the personnel within the Netherlands, even Netherlands who arrive from Norwich UK workers if there is no local branch or permanent via Schiphol may be caught • In the case of UK workers check the establishment in the Netherlands or any • Companies supplying one or more National Insurance position other legal presence, may now have to specialist workers on an ad-hoc basis (see www.hmrc.gov.uk). register with the appropriate Chamber of to clients in the Netherlands even if • Check any relevant double taxation Commerce in the Netherlands. only one may be caught provisions. • Both the supplier and hirer can be • Check your UK insurance covers Importance to suppliers of affected foreign law requirements, such as offshore workers Employers’ Liability insurance or health This is particularly important for Energy What action should be taken? insurance and transfer of place. and other suppliers of off-shore workers. • Check the requirement to register • Check your contract of employment The regulations capture the supply of • Check that your employees meet the allow for mobility of work abroad and labour where the work is supervised in the conditions of residency in the Netherlands the increase of benefits payable abroad. Netherlands or on plant or ships governed • Check that your employees have the • Retain your records in case of by Dutch law or temporary placements in professional qualifications required in mitigation of any penalties that may be the Netherlands. the Netherlands enforced for failure to register. • Check that the appropriate work UK companies potentially face heavy permits have been obtained if any of Useful links for reference fines if they are not registered with the your employees are from outside the EA www.hmrc.gov.uk Dutch Chamber of Commerce. The law Switzerland or from Romania or Bulgaria. www.abu.nl/flex-migrants also applies to hirers who will need to • Check the commercial agreements www.government.nl/issues/work- check that the supplier of labour is also for the supply of labour and any employment-rights-and-duties/working- appropriately registered. indemnity provisions, particularly in the conditions case of hirers www.vmwtax.com Penalties Since 1 January 2012 every employer Even where bidding for tenders or pre- Andrew Wood who violates by hiring personnel from a qualification it is important to register now Consultant Solicitor non-registered services supplier or is not to avoid a delay in the tender process. www.birketts.co.uk registered faces fines of 12,000 Euros per employee up to a maximum of £76,000 Other factors Euros per violation. The penalties are Care needs to be taken as to the doubled for the second violation within registration wording used in registering 5 years and tripled for the third violation with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce within the same period. to avoid being obliged to pay local Dutch tax. The wording that will be required for Compliance the registration needs to be checked as The background to the new law is to the Dutch Tax Authorities are now pro- prevent the illegal supply of labour and active and will seek to tax if there is any unfair competition in the labour market in suggestion of a local presence. the Netherlands. Important to note also that from day one It is important to assess both the not only is there the obligation to register agreements(s) for the supply of labour as well for the foreign agency/employer, but in as your tax position to ensure that you do not addition to local tax there may well also be

44 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor legal eagles

Oversailing Risks roads authority. The verges of both public Presenting a case and private roads form part of the road and If in doubt, the developer should present A fundamental objective in any therefore benefit from the public right of a case to the roads authority to persuade development is control of the passage. Identification of all public and private them that the relevant ‘way’ is a private development site and of any offsite roads, together with their verges, is crucial road and not a private access. If the roads land necessary for road access to when assessing the swept path analysis. authority is persuaded, it places the onus on avoid the risk of a ransom situation. the landowner to establish that the ‘way’ is a That risk is aggravated in wind farm Defining the road network private access. development where the route from The roads authority should be able to confirm port of entry to the extent of the public road although they Ultimately any dispute would be a matter site can extend may hesitate with the road verge. The extent for the court, but the support of the roads over many miles of a verge can more readily be identified if it authority would be very valuable indeed. often in rural is bounded by a barrier such as a fence or Such access would only be required if the areas. hedge. If no such barrier, the roads authority wind farm consents had been granted. The may have a policy of maintaining a verge of roads authority should therefore be willing Managing the specified width, usually 2 metres. to give a view on the full extent of the road risk network to facilitate the implementation of a The starting point Legal principals statutory consent, where possible. to manage the risk The identification of private roads, and their of oversail ransom verges, may be more problematic although A time to review? is to identify the there are legal principles to be applied to Maybe the time has come to review the extent of the road the facts in each case. The roads authority extent of the public right of passage network. There is a has some jurisdiction over private roads so through air-space given that the loads public right of passage over roads, which they should assist with their identification. will always be carried by vehicles legally means that a developer can exercise that registered to drive on roads. Who would right over the full extent of the road. Background information may be crucial but think of charging aircraft for use of air space? the objective will be to distinguish between Road network a ‘way’ over which there is a public right Ann Faulds Click to The road network consists of public roads, of passage and a ‘way’ which is a private Partner view more which are roads maintained by the roads access over private land. Evidence may be Dundas & Wilson info authority, and private roads, which are roads gained from title deeds, statutory consents, www.dundas-wilson.com maintained by someone other than the local knowledge or from the roads authority.

and Carbon Free which saw the local Result Neilston Community body benefit from an up to 49.9% share The result? – Carbon Free and NDT share Wind Farm in pre-tax profits generated by the wind the risk and the reward of the wind farm, farm. In total, 28.3% equity was raised with revenue generated by NDT to be a renewable energy leading to a commensurate profit share. In used for local community projects. addition, Carbon Free bore all partnership the risk and costs associated Wind farms have become synonymous with developing the wind farm, with controversy across the UK but an up to the point of planning increasing number of community and consent. developer partnerships have emerged. Harnessing local support by boosting Collaborative approach local regeneration was the cornerstone The collaborative approach to success for one community wind gave local Neilston residents farm project in which Pinsent Masons equal say in how the project has been involved. progressed, from pre- application consultation to Innovative approach raising its own equity and, even In 2009 this innovative approach was more unusually, raising funds pioneered in Neilston, a small town in East through debt finance. Renfrewshire, Scotland. Local body, the Collaboration was pivotal to the success Neilston Development Trust (NDT) teamed Whole project life cycle of the Neilston Wind Farm project. A up with renewables developer Carbon Pinsent Masons’ role spanned the entire valuable blueprint for small scale wind farm Free Development to develop a four life cycle of the project from early stage projects, Neilston’s innovative funding turbine wind farm, the income from which option and lease work, through to grid and regeneration project demonstrates will be re-invested in community projects. arrangements, contractual arrangements how renewable energy can be a between the NDT and CFD and working transformational asset to local residents. Joint venture arrangements with the Co-Operative Bank and its Advising the project special purpose advisors on the project financing of the Jennifer Ballantyne vehicle, Pinsent Masons put in place the deal which involved the use of a model of Pinsent Masons joint venture arrangements between NDT turbine not previously funded by the Bank. www.pinsentmasons.com

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 45 Legal eagles feature sponsor

An education in wind energy As energy costs rise, many organisations with large real Case study – Lancaster estate portfolios have been implementing energy reduction University measures, seeking alternative suppliers and turning to SGH Martineau recently on-site generation. Energy and education lawyers, SGH advised Lancaster University on Martineau have been monitoring these trends over the past the planning, procurement and decade and have observed a growing interest from Higher construction of a wind project Education clients for on-site renewable projects and in that has been generating 15- particular, wind turbine installations 20% of the University’s monthly electricity requirements. Universities Across a large campus, such Universities have faced more challenges than most in recent years, as Lancaster’s this provides a not only absorbing rising energy costs, but also having to adjust significant financial saving. their financial modelling in the wake of a new tuition fees regime, cuts in research funding and restrictions on overseas students. Whilst the benefits of generating your own energy are both Funding financial and reputational, But Universities pride themselves on problem solving and in this Lancaster University faced golden age of ‘green’, one viable area of revenue generation is several other challenges with renewable energy projects. before the project could get off the ground. Securing Supported by grants from the Higher Education Funding planning permission is always Council, Universities can apply for Capital Investment funding to a challenge and in this case, undertake projects that improve environmental sustainability and the University also had to assist reduce carbon emissions. For campus universities this grant the local planning authority in combined with a large real estate portfolio and the potential to seeing off a potential judicial benefit from the Government’s Feed-in Tariff scheme, has lent review challenge. In addition, itself to the development of wind projects. our team had to co-ordinate

The winds of change affecting the onshore wind farm industry

The debate around the development of onshore wind farms communities by the end of the year. Currently developers can continues to enjoy a high profile in the media. The Government pay incentive payments to local communities of £1,000 per continues to fuel this debate with policy statements and megawatt of installed capacity per year over the lifetime of legislative changes to try to strike a balance between the the wind farm project. The revised incentive payments are to need for continued low carbon technology investment and the increase to £5,000 per megawatt per year, available to local protection of legitimate local community interests. The most communities who host wind farms. recent announcements cover a number of areas. There is a concern among developers that although the increased Pre-application consultation rate is only recommended by DECC, and therefore voluntary, not Proposed amendments to secondary legislation will make offering the full £5,000 per year community incentive package will pre-application consultation with communities compulsory for affect the chances of the project planning being approved and ‘more significant’ wind farm projects, although what constitutes lead to a reduction in renewable projects going forward. ‘more significant’ is undefined. This is currently compulsory for wind farm projects over 50 megawatts (MW). Many wind farm Overall, this is a series of measures driven by the very real need developers already carry out pre-application consultation with to recognise the interests of local communities. The net effect of communities for projects below the 50 MW threshold as best these changes is unlikely to alter significantly the approval process practice. These amendments to legislation are intended to make for projects. However, it is clear that these changes will discourage the best practice more commonplace. developers from entering into the planning process without a clear appreciation of, and strategy for dealing with, the local community. Planning guidance New planning guidance is also going to be issued to councils Alternative ways and appeal inspectors to ensure planning decisions are To meet their community benefit obligations developers may interpreted in line with the National Planning Policy. need to create alternative ways of incentivising local communities to support projects, such as supplementing incentive payments Benefit packages with discount schemes from local energy providers. One likely In its statement DECC and DCLG have recommended that effect will be that developers focus on a greater return from their the industry revises current benefit packages available to local existing assets, either by sale or re-powering.

46 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor legal eagles

the Higher Education Funding Council grant conditions with Clive Read the building contract. The final bump in the road was the physical challenge of delivering the turbine onto the site via a tight rural road network.

Lancaster University’s Director of Facilities, Mark Swindlehurst said of the project, “Lancaster University’s siting of a wind turbine is a great example of what can be done to deliver significant and transformational change for the energy requirements of a major business. As a University which is heavily involved in researching climate change it’s great to be able to make a positive difference to our own environment and community.”

Unique position Universities are certainly not alone in the fight against rising energy costs, however their unique position of public sector institution (entitled to funding and grants) and private land owner, gives them an opportunity to significantly reduce their consumption and consequently spend through the installation of on-site renewables.

By Clive Read - Partner, Real Estate SGH Martineau www.sghmartineau.com

Debate continues Many will see these measures as unnecessary support for the anti-wind farm lobby at a time when we are well placed to capitalise on all aspects of this booming sector of the energy industry.

The alternative school of thought will see this as a necessary change of emphasis, with the government sending a message to developers that it is not development at all costs. Whatever your view point, the debate will continue.

James Bryce Square One Law www.squareonelaw.com

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 47 COMPANY PROFILE A company who knows where they are going and want to get there fast! Third Queen’s Award for Enterprise Global reach Moving onwards and upwards for International Trade Mr Howlett said, “We’ve invested a great The next stage of the company’s deal of time and effort to give our business ambitious plans involve the doubling Energetic drive a global reach and this has resulted in us of their business in as short a time as Lowestoft-based Pipeshield International’s winning some really exciting contracts, possible. energetic drive to win business around including one for a twin-release mattress the world has earned it a remarkable that practically halves installation time. We travelled to Pipeshield’s Lowestoft third Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Headquarters to speak to Steve Howlett, International Trade. “Our services now include project Managing Director to find out more… design, engineering and manufacturing, Presentation elements that can be brought together in Name The latest award - an engraved crystal any combination to provide an integrated Steve Howlett bowl - was presented to Managing solution.” Director Steve Howlett by Lord Position Tollemache, the Lord Lieutenant of Since our inception some 4 years ago we Managing Director, Pipeshield International Suffolk, who praised the company’s have been following the work of Pipeshield ambition and success in establishing itself International. Company history as a world leader in its field. Pipeshield International incorporated in Pipeshield, founded in 1999, Originally, a largely Oil & Gas industry 1999 and like many successful businesses manufactures subsea protection and company, they have always kept their began from humble beginnings - Steve’s stablisation systems for oil and gas eyes open in getting involved within front room! platforms and wind turbines. emerging markets and have never been fearful of taking advantage of opportunities After working for various companies International which may exist in other areas. within the offshore construction industry, It operates around the world in countries he decided to be in control of his own like Malaysia, Singapore, Albania and The wind energy industry is one such destiny. A man who has always been Canada. And in the past year Pipeshield market and Pipeshield have been quick to driven with a good work ethic, always has won major new contracts in South move forward and expand in a very short given 100%, Steve always looks to the Africa and Azerbaijan, where it has space of time. future. established production facilities to manufacture concrete mattresses and other subsea structures to protect platforms and pipelines. “It has been another positive year for us and we are delighted to have won a third Queen’s Award,” said Mr Howlett. “Very few companies have achieved this and we are extraordinarily proud to be recognised in this way.”

Highest accolade The Queen’s Award is the highest accolade in UK industry and recognises companies that have made significant achievements in the fields of innovation, sustainable development and international trade. It championed 152 businesses across the UK this year.

Pipeshield won two Queen’s Awards in 2005 - in the Innovation and International Trade categories.

48 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk COMPANY PROFILE

Company progress The one situation which Steve is very proud of is the growth and progress of the company with the obvious employment opportunities which arise for talented people. Steve’s first Service and Quality is Never an Accident employee, a Technical Director, was hired following the It is Always the Result of Intelligent Effort company’s incorporation.

Global focus ™ What appeals to Steve more than anything else is the global SUBFLEX nature of the work involved, which Pipeshield is very successful at. The recent third Queen’s award for International Trade is Cable Protection Systems testimony to that fact. SUBSEA ENERGY SOLUTIONS HAS BEEN FOUNDED AS A DIRECT REQUEST FROM THE RENEWABLE ENERGY Working around the world with people from different cultures INDUSTRY FOR THE NECESSITY FOR INCREASED and backgrounds is something which Steve and his team look COMPETITION, REDUCED SYSTEM COSTS AND forward to and enjoy - it can be challenging but very worthwhile. ENHANCED SOLUTIONS, WITHIN A LIMITED CABLE PROTECTION SYSTEM MARKET PLACE. Wind industry Steve has always been interested in offshore renewables right DEMAND FOR COST REDUCTION from the start, however it was for the security of business that Subsea Energy Solutions, an ISOQAR 9001 : 2008 prompted him to make the decision to ensure that the company registered company, has risen to the urgent industry had a broader outlook - having all your eggs in one basket has challenge for the demand for offshore wind farm long never been a good idea in business. term sustainability, through means of cost reduction. With industry assistance, Subsea Energy Solutions There are also a lot of synergies in the offshore wind and oil & can signifi cantly contribute towards the reduction of gas industries and it just makes sense to have customers and offshore wind farm design, construction, operational, maintenance and de-commissioning costs. clients in both. EXPERIENCE & INDUSTRY ADVICE The focus in the wind industry came more in the second half of With our industry and project wide experience, the the company’s existence as the industry started to mature and unique patent pending SUBFLEX TM Cable Protection the future looked very bright. System offers many unrivalled and unparalleled technical and commercial features. The industry also allows the company to develop and introduce Subsea Energy Solutions have sought industry innovative ideas in a fast moving, growing environment. advice during the development of the SUBFLEX TM Cable Protection System and taken into consideration many requirements such as purchase Other business cost, rapid offshore assembly, rapid installation, When asked why get involved in such diverse areas of business rapid burial, enhanced cable protection, elimination with in construction Steve’s answer is “because we can!” of maintenance requirements, standardisation of components to name just a small selection of features.

Which very much sums up Steve’s attitude to business and will CABLE INSTALLATION IMPORTANCE ensure future success for the company and his team. Offshore windfarm cable installation is a high cost / high insurance claims theatre and it is well We finish the article very much how we started in that Steve documented that 70% of insurance claims from emphasised the key to the company’s future success “It is all windfarm operators relate to cable damage, so there about people, and particularly young people, who we employ has never been a greater, more important time, and give them an opportunity to develop with the company – for the renewable industry to come together and we have an important succession planning policy which is key support a rapidly emerging company in developing a fully coordinated and fully standardised approach to to our future success.” monopile J-tube & J-tube-less installations.

We will continue to feature Pipeshield International and their progress in future magazine articles and features.

Pipeshield International www.pipeshield.com

Click to view more info

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: +44 (0) 1748 828580

E [email protected] W www.subenesol.co.uk

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 49 money matters feature sponsor Sterling’s value plummets as hopes of an interest rate hike are blown away

50 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor money matters

It is amazing how quickly sentiment can change in the foreign exchange Carney made a statement after markets. It was only as recently as the meeting – which is unconventional January that the US dollar was like a in itself – in which he made clear that UK dog with fleas while the pound was interest rates would stay low for some time looking increasingly valuable. How the to come. tables have turned. This was a surprise for two reasons. The dollar is strengthening as markets What are the key market drivers? Firstly, many in the market had taken his anticipate an end to money printing in the Recently the new Bank of England history of hiking rates in Canada as a US. Protective dollar hedging is certainly Governor, Mark Carney, chaired his first sign that he would do the same here and worth considering at the moment as the meeting in charge of the Bank’s Monetary secondly, a recent raft of more positive UK rates are widely expected to fall. Policy Committee. While there was no data releases supported the suggestions change in the base interest rate and no that the UK economy is improving. Euro importers need not panic addition to the money printing program, right now the meeting led to a shift in expectations Carney shot those ideas down, stating However, we must remember that that has been extremely damaging to that expectations of a rate rise were “not currency exchange has two sides to the sterling. warranted”. This is an uncharacteristically cross, and those importing goods from aggressive move by the Bank of England the Eurozone need not panic quite yet. who tend not to say anything unless they make a change of some kind. Carney While the Eurozone market sentiment has set his stall out early and the market is been quiet over the last six months or so, now waiting eagerly for indications that the problems in Greece, Portugal, Spain and he will enact further quantitative easing Italy have not gone away. Even in Germany measures. there are signs of a further slowdown. All of this suggests that the euro may have room Why does all of this matter to to weaken in time. This could give the pound your business, particularly in some breathing space down the line and the wind energy industry? provide euro importers the chance to hedge British importers have had a difficult year. currency at higher levels. Sterling started the year as the worst performer, falling by 9% in January. This Take protection against a made life very difficult for those importing declining pound businesses that set their annual budget Nevertheless, protection is the name of levels in December, as rates fell quickly. the game and all the sign posts point to a further declining pound. Those that need Boosting this sterling weakness, the US dollars are right to be concerned. government has made it clear that support for exporters is their priority – great news Ultimately the goal of any importer should for them but not so much for those wind be the same – protect yourself from risk. energy businesses who are importing If current exchange rates are above your turbines, cables, computers etc from required budget levels then, with the around the world. This latest fall in the value downside outlook for the pound looming of the pound is another hurdle to jump. large, it is time to look at hedging.

The facts are simple, when the pound falls Torrie Callander the cost of foreign goods goes up. The UK Senior Commercial Dealer wind energy sector needs to consider this Global Reach Partners fact and the risk of further falls as the year www.globalreach-partners.com goes on – particularly if paying for goods in US dollars. Click to view more info

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 51 money matters feature sponsor Tracking the pathways to cost reduction Cost reduction in offshore wind has Progress on track Installation been the big issue facing the industry Central to cost reduction is the development For installation, the focus has been on fit-for- particularly over the past 18 months. of ‘next generation’ turbines and the good purpose vessels that can operate in a wider This has only intensified following news is that progress is on track. The range of weather conditions. There has been the strike price announcement in number of turbine manufacturers eying the significant investment in third-generation June, which has left many developers offshore market has dwindled but those turbine installation vessels which are larger concerned about the viability of their that remain are forging ahead with new than their predecessors and with greater projects. products. Siemens has recently installed lifting capacity. two of its 6MW offshore turbines at Gunfleet Offshore Cost Reduction Sands III and Alstom and Samsung Heavy There is still concern, however, that Pathways Study Industries are planning to install their offshore specialist foundation installation vessels are The magic figure is £100/MWh and in prototypes this year. not progressing from the drawing board. May 2012, BVG Associates delivered The cable installation market is maturing the technology workstream for The Deep water projects fast, but the vessel fleet is largely assembled Crown Estate’s Offshore Cost Reduction With the introduction of larger turbines and from ships designed for the oil and gas and Pathways Study. This not only identified the the trend towards deeper water projects, telecoms market. As cable installation is prospects for lower cost of energy but also there has been considerable interest in a high risk activity with low margins which highlighted the signs that we should look for developments in foundation technology. means that investment in bespoke vessels is in understanding how much progress has For many developers, jackets are the unlikely unless there is change. been made. We have recently reviewed our natural choice, but the bespoke production analysis and the picture of progress toward process used for these structures in the Industrial strategy the industry goal is mixed. oil and gas industry will be too expensive The forthcoming UK Government industrial an option for offshore wind. R&D in radical strategy is expected to build on recent designs continues, but the emphasis is developments such as the establishment Dr Alun Roberts now on making marginal cost savings of the Offshore Renewables Catapult, on the standard four-legged designs by Offshore Wind Industry Council and Norstec, standardising tubular and weld angles to to galvanise industry efforts in the UK on enable high volume production and reduce innovation and cost reduction. With these material costs. Progress is being made, collective efforts, there are good reasons for but market uncertainty has delayed the believing that the offshore wind industry’s investment needed to realise the potential for ambitions for cost reduction can be realised. cost reductions. Dr Alun Roberts Increased capacity array cables BVG Associates There is better news concerning the www.bvgassociates.co.uk introduction of 66kV array cables, which offer increased capacity on each string and lower electrical losses. With support from The Carbon Trust Offshore Wind Accelerator, 66kV products are now expected to be available to the market in 2015.

52 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor money matters

Offshore wind farms offer massive economic benefits, not just environmental ones

Nick Heale and Scott Carpenter, London Array, the world’s largest offshore company directors of H&Askham wind farm located in the Thames Estuary – Nick Heale Group, one of Britain’s leading wind 175 turbines that produce enough power farm supply chain companies, argue to supply over 470,000 UK homes with that the government should not electricity. underestimate the much-overlooked economic advantages of the wind farm Whereas in Europe, governments have industry. They want the government been investing heavily in launching offshore to firmly pledge its support to wind wind power as an energy alternative, energy because they believe it could Nick and Scott strongly believe that help revive the British economy, Britain is lagging behind. Delivering mixed re-establishing British engineering messages, the British government has prowess across the globe. expressed no firm commitment and taken little action in comparison to Europe in A positive example supporting wind energy and there is much Nick and Scott cite their own Kent- uncertainty surrounding the likelihood of the based high voltage electrical company, fruition of the Round Three projects. H&Askham, as an example of the sector’s promising economic potential. Government scrutiny Investment Nick Heale says, “Wind farms have recently While the UK has a great Engineering During the economic downturn in been under government scrutiny because heritage, the company believe that the 2008, their small high voltage electrical of their cost and alleged inability to deliver British government simply hasn’t made installation company was struggling along the energy targets required for 2020. But enough of the offshore wind market by with so many other British businesses. we at H&Askham believe that with better investing in British wind power resources H&Askham only managed to buck the project management and more support and facilities. With the recent economic recession trend when Nick and Scott from the government, costs should crisis and high unemployment levels chose to expand into offshore wind decrease significantly and large projects in Britain, wind power is an industry power, a sector they predicted would should be delivered more efficiently, thus sector ready and waiting to boost the expand rapidly due to carbon emission enabling the 2020 targets to be met.” fledgling British economy, providing reduction targets and widespread interest jobs for hands-on labour, skilled in green energy production. Nick added that, “With more activity on technicians, project managers, engineers the Continent in offshore wind energy and technicians for the operation and Company growth production, many European companies maintenance of wind farms. Since H&Askham’s first offshore wind have been calling on H&Askham power project, the then small company because of their affirmed knowledge European Wind Energy has grown exponentially, repositioning and experience of the UK wind power Association Report, 2011 itself on the market as a large UK-based market. This is clear indication that the “The offshore industry is forecast to see wind power supply chain company, with UK must act soon if it wants to continue a steep rise in employment numbers an ever-increasing band of employees and to be the big player in the offshore wind over the course of the next decade. It is ever-increasing demand. industry. The government should express estimated that the wind energy sector its commitment and act upon it, so that will employ 462,000 people in 2020. Of London Array outside investors can have the confidence these 169,500, almost 40% will be in The company now boasts a range of to support upcoming UK projects. It is an offshore. By 2030, jobs in offshore are major wind power projects including opportunity not to be missed.” expected to count for 62% of total in the wind energy sector: around 300,000 jobs out of a total of 480,000.”

Commitment If the British government really wants to demonstrate its commitment to the growth of British industry, then Nick and Scott at H&Askham believe that the government should back the wind energy sector, which holds the potential to create many more engineering and manufacturing jobs for British industry whilst reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

The H&Askham Group London Array www.HandAjointing.co.uk

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 53 money matters feature sponsor

Green Investment Bank publishes Annual Report

Transparency & accountability Green Investment Bank The UK Green Lord Smith of Kelvin, Chairman of the www.greeninvestmentbank.com Green Investment Bank said: “We are Investment building a new institution and want to The Annual Report can be found here: behave with the highest standards of Bank plc (GIB) transparency and accountability, right Click to view more info from the start. Our Annual Report sets has published out full details of our investments and operations during our first few months; its first Annual including details of our green impact. We are looking forward to the Annual Review Report, for the events and engaging with all of our stakeholders to share our thinking and period to 31st hear their views.” March 2013. Building an enduring institution Shaun Kingsbury, Chief Executive said: The report was published to coincide with “In our first, short year we’ve made Annual Review meetings in Edinburgh great strides in putting in place the and London recently, where the Executive foundations upon which we will build an Team presented the results to a wide enduring institution. It remains early days range of stakeholders. but our first results show that we can be successful in achieving our double In Edinburgh, the guest speakers included bottom line of being green and behaving Rt Hon Gregory Barker MP, Minister of commercially.” State for Climate Change and in London, Rt Hon Vince Cable MP, Secretary of Pivotal role State for Business, Innovation and Skills. Business Secretary Vince Cable who will be attending the annual review meeting in London said: “The Green Investment Bank has a pivotal role to play in the financing of our transition to a green economy. It has already made a positive start, with £635 million committed to green projects and with every £1 invested leveraging another £3 of private investment. The bank has a number of strong deals in the pipeline, which will help it to build on the solid foundations that have now been laid.”

54 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor money matters

Green Investment Bank completes senior team with appointment of two new Managing Directors

New Managing Shaun Kingsbury, Chief Executive, Green realising its planned installed capacity. I Directors for offshore Investment Bank, said: “The development am extremely proud to lead the offshore in our offshore wind strategy will ensure wind effort for GIB, and together with wind and non-domestic that we can mobilise investment at a Shaun and the rest of the team, will work energy efficiency critical, early stage of a project. I am tirelessly to ensure that GIB makes a (NDEE) – the MD for looking forward to working with Christine valuable contribution to this sector.” to turn our broadened strategy into reality.” offshore wind will Gregor’s background lead the delivery of an NDEE strategy Gregor is relocating to Edinburgh from “Gregor, joining us all the way from South Cape Town to take up his new role. He will expanded strategy, Africa, is another key appointment, which be joined by a newly appointed Director which sees GIB move completes our senior leadership team. I Iain Watson, who will also be based in into construction am particularly pleased that Gregor will be Edinburgh. Gregor was previously CEO leading the execution of our NDEE strategy of Sterling Waterford Securities (SWS), funding for new offshore from our Edinburgh headquarters. a South African asset management and wind facilities. advisory firm, where he was involved in “This announcement shows that we can a number of financial innovations in the The Green Investment Bank (GIB) has attract the very best global talent, and renewable energy market and carbon announced that Christine Brockwell and I look forward to working with our new emissions trading market. At SWS, he Gregor Paterson-Jones will imminently MDs as they lead the delivery of our initiated the listed trading market for carbon take up the roles of Managing Director of investment strategy in two of our priority credits on the JSE Securities Exchange and Offshore Wind and Non Domestic Energy investment sectors.” played a key role in creating new financing Efficiency (NDEE) respectively. structures in the formative stages of the Christine’s background biofuels and voluntary offset markets. Offshore wind Christine, who joins GIB’s London Offshore wind is one of GIB’s mandated office from Germany, was previously Gregor said: “I am delighted to be joining priority investment sectors and is expected a Director at Global Capital Finance, a the UK Green Investment Bank, having to have the largest share of GIB’s initial £3bn leading financial services advisory firm closely followed the bank’s progress capital. In its first six months of operation, where she was responsible for the firm’s and investments to date. It is good to GIB’s focus has been the secondary market European renewable energy transactions see that in a few short months, GIB for operating assets, investing in existing and global equity syndication. In her has already made two significant NDEE offshore wind projects to allow capital to be capacity at GCF, she led the company investments, driving significant private recycled into new projects. on several noteworthy asset-based M&A sector co-investment. I look forward to transactions, including offshore wind. working with Shaun and the team at GIB The appointment of Christine coincides to build on the £2.3 billion capital that with the expansion of GIB’s offshore Christine said: “Offshore wind will play a the Bank has already mobilised.” wind investment strategy, which will see it significant role in helping the UK meet continue to invest in secondary markets as its binding renewable energy obligations. Green Investment Bank well as now investing in offshore projects Through its direct funding capabilities and www.greeninvestmentbank.com in the construction stage. its desire to stimulate co-investment from other institutions, the Green Investment Bank is vital to the industry’s success in

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 55 money matters feature sponsor

Funding renewables projects equity and debt instruments Renewable energy plays an important role in combating climate change, however there are barriers including cost issues, to the development of the renewable energy sector in the UK.

Raising money for renewables projects can take different forms and adopt different structures. This article outlines alternative funding options for projects such as bonds (a debt instrument) or equity, but ignoring mainstream commercial bank funding.

Attractive investments Renewables projects are seen as attractive investments as the cashflow required to service investor repayments can be Key considerations Trends modelled fairly predictably due to the nature The key considerations before any Trends in the renewables sector have of the underlying renewables project. fundraising should be… emerged over the last few years. There have been a number of fundraises in the Variable costs • What do we want to do? sector through Enterprise Investment The cost of renewable energy projects • How much money do we need? Scheme (EIS) and Venture Capital varies due to technology and location, for • Can we write an effective business plan? Trust (VCTs). Although EIS and VCT example an offshore wind farm is more • Who will give us the money? investments are subject to various complex and expensive than a micro-wind • On what terms will we accept the money? limitations, they have been very successful turbine servicing a building. Funding can for wind projects both FiTs and ROCs take the form of equity or bonds and any There are principally two routes available… supported. The attractive tax reliefs funder or investor will expect a return on 1 Private equity available for investors coupled with the that investment, which differs between the 2 Share or bond issues undertaken by returns available for the underlying project equity or bonds approaches. the project company have resulted in small scale EIS/VCT fundraisings being widespread. Confidence Private equity providers Funders need to have confidence There are a number of private equity Most recent trend that the project has been properly put providers, some of which specialise in The most recent trend is a move towards together, and that it is both practically and renewables, and some who are looking fully listed equity and bond issues – the economically viable. This is generically to increase their presence in the sector. amounts being raised under these issues referred to as a project being ‘bankable’, Private equity investors expect a priority are much larger than traditionally have whether a bank is involved or not. That return, a high degree of control and a been seen in the market, looking to attract comfort comes from a careful examination clear exit plan. With a share issue, this a new investor base with the added of the financial, legal, commercial and is most effectively undertaken through benefit of a market being available to trade technical aspects of the project. experienced brokers, as they have the their investment. best distribution channels. The main players so far have been in solar, Offering considerations but wind will no doubt be hot on its heels. The costs of a share or bond issue will depend largely on what sort of offering Where the market will move to next will is being made – the costs will be highest no doubt depend on the decision of the with a UKLA vetted full prospectus. Government as to what supports will be There is a regulatory environment to be available to the industry going forward. navigated and a developer will need to consider the minimum amount it needs to Richard Tall raise to fulfil its investment plan as well as TLT solicitors cover the costs of raising the funds. www.TLTsolicitors.com

Moving forward, you will have a number of new shareholders or bondholders with, potentially for a share issue, a say over the running of the company and you will need to consider ongoing relations.

56 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor money matters

Realising the potential for offshore wind in Scotland Lowering the cost of grid connections and greater collaboration between offshore developers to share transmission assets have emerged as two of the most important steps to help Scotland realise its potential for offshore wind, in a survey conducted by Brodies LLP to identify the most significant challenges and opportunities for the country’s offshore wind sector.

Survey detail When asked to identify the most significant change to the grid that should be made to help Scotland realise its potential for offshore wind, 29% of respondents said lowering the cost of grid connections and the same proportion urged greater collaboration between offshore developers to share transmission assets, such as transmission cables and onshore connection facilities.

Costs Grid connection charges are a significant challenge for the funding of new generation assets – and the costs for remote offshore and island connections are eye watering, as the recent report by Baringa Partners illustrates. Remote locations often have good wind resources but the Baringa report shows that this is unlikely to offset the proposed connection charges and may deter development.

Main challenges Meanwhile, planning and licensing issues, high grid connection charges and access to finance were identified as some of the main challenges to the future growth of Scotland’s offshore wind sector. When asked to identify the most important factor on which the future growth of their business depends, planning and licensing were cited by 27% of those who responded to the survey.

Good news on offshore planning Marine planning is still new, and it is not surprising that it is seen as a key issue for developers. There is good news for developers though, with the proposal from the Scottish Government to designate onshore aspects of offshore wind developments as national development in the new national planning framework, NPF3.

Neil Collar & Keith Patterson Brodies LLP www.brodies.com

Click to view more info

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 57 money matters feature sponsor

Offshore wind spending set to average almost €15 billion per year over the next ten years The low carbon drive and the need Challenges Understanding costs to replace older power plants mean Despite the undoubted growth potential, To understand the cost of energy challenge, that the UK and many other European there are a number of challenges facing one must look at its major components markets require new generation the sector, the most pressing being the including the initial capital outlay (Capex), capacity from a variety of sources high cost levels. At the present time, and the ongoing cost (Opex) of maintaining including offshore wind. Douglas- the cost of energy for offshore wind is the asset. Capex rates have escalated Westwood (DW) forecast global significantly higher than for conventional significantly over the last five years, but offshore wind installation levels thermal plants (gas and coal) and even appear to be levelling off at a rate of €3.75m averaging just over 3,000 Megawatts onshore wind. This means that offshore per Megawatt. Opex levels are harder to (MW) per year over the next ten wind requires financial support to be judge due to limited real-world experience. years. This capacity equates to economically viable. In a time of austerity However, what is clear is that a series of annual spending of around €15 billion and rising energy bills, it is important that major issues have been experienced such per year, an attractive market for this requirement for financial support falls as poorly manufactured foundations, and incumbents and new entrants alike. over time. defective wind turbine blades.

Cost reduction opportunities There are a number of avenues open for cost reduction in the offshore wind sector including use of larger wind turbines tailored to the offshore wind environment, increased levels of competition in the supply chain, and more efficient installation methods.

With regards to wind turbines, European project developers are now starting to specify models with capacities of 5 MW or greater. At the present time, developers are starting to gain experience with the first 5 MW wind turbines with an expectation of moving to 7.5 MW turbines in the medium term. While a clear growth trend has been experienced, it is important to note that commercial deployment has always been slower than expected.

Competition Competition is also ramping up with major industrial groups including Alstom, Areva, Mitsubishi, Samsung and Siemens all developing very large offshore wind turbines. Competitive intensity and technology options are also increasing in the area of foundations supply.

Specialised installation vessels In order to increase offshore wind construction efficiencies, a new fleet of highly specialised installation vessels have been built. The new-build construction cycle has been so intense that there are currently concerns that there is oversupply in the market. While vessel capacity has increased, concerns remain that there is insufficient standardisation in terms of installation methodology.

Douglas Westwood www.douglas-westwood.com

Click to view more info

58 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk COMPANY PROFILE

New livery marks 75 years for Dawson Multimodal specialist AV Dawson has transformed one of its haulage fleet with a one-off new livery to mark its 75th birthday.

New truck – experienced driver The new Scania truck is being driven by Bob King – one of the longest serving employees at the family run firm, which is based at Riverside Park, in Middlesbrough, Teesside.

The design is a twist on the company’s distinctive original red and white colours, but with metallic paint and silver/platinum detail appropriate to a 75th anniversary.

Interested past The logistics firm was started by Arthur ‘Vernie’ Dawson with wife Eleanor in 1938, who invested £50 in a horse called Dina, her shoes, a cart for her to pull and coal to sell.

The offshore energy market and company growth The firm, today run by Vernie’s grandson Bob, of Skelton, near Saltburn, has been Companies using the rail terminal can Gary Dawson, now offers a diverse range with the firm for 38 years. benefit from loaded lifting and storage and of bespoke haulage, shipping, warehouse a direct link to the East Coast Main Line, and rail solutions and has expanded into Russell Spink, Senior Transport and making it ideal for intermodal train services new sectors, such as the buoyant offshore Maintenance Manager at AV Dawson, to and from North East England. energy market. said: “Our fleet goes out across the world and we thought rebranding one New deepwater quay Haulage is still a key part of the business of our top of the range vehicles would The firm is also seeing major growth in with its fleet growing from 8 to 32 vehicles be really appropriate to celebrate our the marine and offshore sectors and over the past 10 years and the number of 75th anniversary, given it all began with is creating a new deepwater £3.2m drivers increasing from 10 to 40 today. haulage. quay, which is due to be completed this summer, as part of its investment. “We couldn’t think of anyone better to drive the vehicle than Bob, who When complete, the quay will boast has been with us since 1975 and is depths of up to 8.5m and will be 150m still going strong. He’s a great role long, allowing larger vessels of up to model for all the future drivers and 10,000 tonnes to take advantage of younger members of staff.” Dawson’s one-stop-shop services, which include in-house ships agency and vessel Tees Riverside Intermodal support company, Cockfield Knight and Park (TRIP) Co Ltd. AV Dawson’s 75th anniversary comes at a time when the AV Dawson company has invested £10m in www.av-dawson.com a major infrastructure expansion. The first phase, the £2.5m Click to view more info Tees Riverside Intermodal Park (TRIP) at its site follows a 250 per cent increase in its container handling and filling business.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 59 Problem? – Solved! Problem? – Solved! In an industry which is extremely fast moving, as well as taking giant engineering and innovation to the limit, problems will inevitably present themselves. The need to evaluate the problem and find the solution quickly is paramount in this environment. After receiving many editorials over the last few years which would suit such a feature we start with just a taster of things to come here…

support services for Unique deck system (Wales) Ltd, at its Pembroke Dock facility offshore wind farms The vessel has a revolutionary deck under a contract awarded by Supacat. system, which is the key to its multi-role Problem performance. Its distinctive feature is a Naval architects Incat Crowther were The operational challenges of providing through-deck from bow to stern with the commissioned to translate Supacat’s support services to the new generation of crew area positioned overhead. SMV 24 concept into a detailed design offshore wind farms located at increasingly and DNV were engaged to advise on greater distances out to sea. Running along the length of the vessel classification. is an integrated rail system designed to Recent practice accommodate ISO containers, a deck The SMV24 will meet DNV 1A1 HSLC R1 Currently operators have to use a crane or diving rig, or other equipment for Windfarm Service Vessel Class 1 and be variety of vessel types to perform the different roles. UK MCA SCV Code (MGN280) Category 1. range of support tasks involved. The The deck can carry up innovative design engineering firm, to 50ft of ISO containers Supacat, conducted detailed analysis in a variety of 20ft and of the operational requirements of wind 10ft combinations, farm operators and the wider marine other general cargo or engineering environment to identify a more a combination of cargo cost effective solution. types. The ISO container concept provides Fresh thinking operators with additional Bringing fresh thinking to the problem, flexibility as they can be the company developed the concept of a multi-purpose vessel that provides greater versatility to operators and transforms the way offshore support operations can be conducted.

Solution The SMV24 provides operators with `one boat to replace many`, enabling operators to conduct a wide range of support tasks associated with offshore wind farms and other maritime engineering installations and facilities.

Specifics fitted out for a variety of roles, such as Mustang Marine With a high speed, high pay load and a workshop, a refrigeration unit or a fuel www.mustangmarine.com range are key discriminators for potential container. customers. Operated by a crew of 3 or 4, Supacat the 24 metre vessel can concurrently carry Completion date www.supacat.com up to 12 additional passengers and up to 30 The first SMV24 is due for completion tonnes of cargo. It can achieve up to 30 knot in September 2013. It is being built by speeds and has a range of up to 790nm. established boat builder, Mustang Marine

60 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Problem? – Solved!

Turbine stress welded onto jackets or turbines to hold the J-Tubes and risers in place. The problem Wind Turbines, by the very nature of their Oil & gas sector operation vibrate. This can cause stress to This process is based on Barrier’s sections of jackets and transition pieces. extensive experience in the offshore oil & gas sector. Already widely used in the The solution Norwegian oil & gas market, the company Barrier Ltd has developed a solution that has diversified the corrosion protection utilises neoprene coatings and rubber process to help meet the requirements of clamps to absorb vibrations generated by the offshore wind industry. wind turbine tower operations. Paul Harriman, Managing Director of The North East-England based company Barrier Ltd, said: “We have considerable is applying rubber to external risers and experience at applying technologies J-Tubes, which are fitted to collector and solutions across multiple sectors. platform jackets and larger deep water In this case, the principles of delivering wind turbines. high quality engineering solutions are the same as we have been applying for High pressure steam created by its nearly 40 years. The ability to diversify specialist vulcanising vessel enables the our products and services is essential as rubber to spread and bond to risers and energy generation opportunities emerge successfully meeting the requirements of J-Tubes. The vulcanised rubber also and grow. contractors and operators.” protects the components from corrosion and additional abrasion protection. “The offshore wind sector has seen a lot Barrier Group of transference in its supply chain from www.barriergroup.com Expertise the oil & gas sector. This has been due The company’s expertise also extends to the technical expertise and extensive Click to view more info to the ability to apply ribbed rubber to experience of companies like Barrier, the internal parts of clamps, which are which have a proven track record of

Cable transport and storage versus cost Once loaded, should the project delay, the cable can be transported internationally and Problem: Cable storage space Industry cost stored significantly cheaper than present. Associated with the high risk of installing Both of the above are costing the industry cable, is the storage and transportation. and severely delaying projects worldwide. Once the delay has been resolved the To date there is a re-occurring industry With over 10 years’ experience in the tank can be offloaded along the quayside problem with lack of storage capacity and offshore industry Floating Cable Tank directly to the cable lay vessel resulting in... the high cost of transporting. Ltd has realised that this is an issue and • No storage capacity issues therefore come up with a solution. • No high cost of transporting As the industry grows the demand for • No delays to the production cycle cable increases however due to unforeseen THE Solution project delays, cable manufacturers do not The company has designed and Which the company believes is a cost have the capacity to be able to store on site engineered a patented solution that will see effective transportation and storage solution. which in turn delays the production cycle. a reduction in price within the region of 30- 50%. The solution is essentially ‘a floating Floating Cable Tank Ltd Problem: Transportation cable tank’ for the ease of transportation www.floatingcabletank.com The same applies to transportation. The and storage. The circular sealed tank will cost of transporting is astronomical and moor along the quayside and feed from a not always straight forward, especially if cleverly designed loading arm that will feed Image Courtesy of Floating Cable the project is in international waters. the cable into the tank from the factory. Tank Ltd

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 61 Spotlight on Ireland feature sponsor

Spotlight on Ireland We welcome Harland and Wolff, the iconic ship builder and heavy industries company, as our sponsor for the Spotlight on Ireland feature.

Harland and Wolff were prominently featured in a previous Spotlight on Northern Ireland some 2 years ago as a major part of the wind energy industry in the area – giant engineering and state-of-the-art technology being their main forte.

You will find articles from a broad range of companies and organisations as well as academic institutions which provide much needed training specific to the industry. Investing in the future Harland and Wolff Heavy industries Ltd

One of the world’s most famous Despite widespread delays in the Taking the lead and oldest ship builders, Belfast- development of offshore wind farms, H&W manufactured the first three based Harland and Wolff Heavy H&W continues to have faith in the commercial Bucket Foundations at its Industries, has been showing viability of the industry and is investing Belfast facilities earlier this year. The remarkable dexterity in recent heavily in its future. It has already Bucket Foundation is an innovative years. completed two offshore substations, met concept utilising suction technology mast foundations for the North Sea, the which has been developed by Fred. Olsen Having successfully reinvented itself logistics and assembly work on three related company Universal Foundation. in time for the 21st century’s surge in large Irish Sea offshore wind farms, and demand for renewable offshore energy, a couple of jackets including its current The contract formed part of an overall the old ship yard has spruced itself project, the Humber Gateway substation project secured by Fred. Olsen United up, invested millions and diversified jacket, due to be delivered Q1 2014. AS with Forewind and SeaGreen for the to become a profitable and unique construction, delivery and installation of commercial operation. Confidence in the marketplace meteorological masts on the Dogger Bank David McVeigh, Head of Sales and and Firth of Forth offshore wind farm sites. Continued maritime focus Marketing at Harland and Wolff says the The business still focuses heavily on market remains volatile, but stability is Following manufacture at Harland and the maritime world with an extremely around the corner. “Offshore wind farms Wolff, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier’s new build busy ship and rig repair and conversion are notoriously difficult to finance, but jack-up vessel Brave Tern successfully sector as well as marine design recent developments such as the HM installed the first foundation and met mast engineering, but the modernisation and Treasury report on Strike Prices will on Dogger Bank. The foundation was upgrading of its manufacturing and add certainty and confidence to the installed in record time and well within its fabrication activities have coincided to marketplace. installation tolerances. The remaining met take full advantage of the growth of mast will be installed later this year. offshore wind farms being installed in “We have always been confident that the Irish and North Seas. certainty in the sector coupled with the advances in technology will ensure the market’s long-term viability. We have been working closely with The Carbon Trust and our fellow Fred. Olsen related companies to develop new technologies which will help reduce the installed cost of offshore wind generation.” says Mr McVeigh. 62 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor spotlight on Ireland

Sound base “The fact that we had a sound base on an ideal deep harbour location was a good starting point.” says Mr McVeigh. “Having now acquired 2 large Rubb structures to enhance our painting capability, bought jacket pile clusters, were secured on our a new 520 tonne shipyard transporter to proven quality and schedule adherence. complement our existing fleet, and our However, our commitment to safety welding management system certified and environmental protection is of vital to ISO 3834 means we are perfectly importance, not only to H&W but also positioned and resourced to undertake our customers.” Cost reduction any large scale manufacturing and “We believe the cost of an installed fabrication project.” Diversity at the core turbine at sea can be dramatically reduced Diversity has been at the core of Harland compared to traditional technologies.” Imagination and nerve and Wolff’s success and it’s no surprise that says Mr McVeigh. “The Bucket Foundation The evolution from ship building to offshore the company has created a broad range of utilises technology which has been proven renewables took imagination and nerve; products and projects for offshore tidal and for decades in the oil and gas sector. It but in the end, the link between the two wave power generation projects, including uses less steel, is lighter, requires no piling was clear. two wave power and one tidal prototypes. and can be installed and fully removed from a floating vessel. With no transition “Ship building requires the same The future piece, operations are reduced and there is skills sets which large scale offshore If Harland and Wolff’s past goes back to no requirement for grouting.” engineering projects such as wind farms the 1860s, the outlook for the future looks and platforms demand, so our direction set for more innovation and diversification. Alongside R&D, investment in facilities, was clear.” says Mr McVeigh. In the mean time, the firm has carved out a equipment and training mean Harland and very firm share of the offshore renewables Wolff has reinforced itself at the forefront “The most strident changes in the last market and intends to stay there. in design and manufacturing for offshore decade, however, have been to do with renewables as well as conventional health and safety. This has always been offshore gas and oil projects. Harland and Wolff’s first priority and Harland and Wolff before we even consider a project the www.harland-wolff.com health and safety component is the first to be scrutinised.” he says. Click to view more info

Quality, schedule adherence and safety “Our current major projects, E.ON’s Humber Gateway substation jacket and Kvaerner Verdal’s oil & gas platform

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The development of Belfast Harbour a hub for the wind sector Belfast Harbour is rapidly becoming one of the UK’s leading renewable energy hubs and is the prime location for companies involved in developing offshore wind in the Irish Sea and beyond. First dedicated port facility Belfast Harbour Commissioners, the port authority, has recently developed the UK’s first dedicated port facility for the offshore wind sector. The facility which cost £53m, is now fully operational and leased to DONG Energy. It is from this state-of-the-art facility, that DONG Energy, together with its partner, Scottish Power Renewables, has recently commenced construction of its 389MW West of Duddon Sands project.

Pacific Orca at the quayside

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Facility capability With a 480m long deepwater quay capable of handling three project vessels simultaneously and a supporting 50 acre hinterland area for storage of turbines, blades and foundations, the facility is capable of supporting the construction of Round 3 scale windfarms using the largest available windfarm installation vessels, such as the Pacific Orca.

Long term commitment DONG Energy holds licences for a Academic establishments significant project portfolio in the Irish Sea, It is equally well complemented by higher and having provided a long term lease education and R&D establishments commitment to Belfast Harbour for the also located in Belfast Harbour. Belfast D1 Offshore Wind Terminal, this has seen Metropolitan College, Northern Ireland’s other elements of the supply chain having largest 3rd level education institution, has the confidence to invest in operations in recently founded the Energy Skills Training the Belfast Harbour area. Network focussed on developing the skills pipeline required to support the growing Further development local demand for skilled personnel. Furthermore, the potential of Belfast Harbour to provide further development opportunities The Northern Ireland Advanced in this sector is unrivalled in Irish Sea terms. Composites and Engineering Centre The port authority has a number of other (NIACE) is also located in Belfast Harbour. strategic development sites, totalling some A joint collaboration between industry and 100 acres, which are suitable for large scale our local universities, it can provide a base manufacturing and logistics activity in the for renewable energy companies using offshore renewables sector. composites to carry out collaborative research, thereby reducing, amongst other One water fronting development site of things, risk and development timescales. almost 50 acres, already has planning consent in place for a new quay wall, Economic development agency and would be the perfect location for a support large scale manufacturing operation, such The local economic development agency, as foundations, towers, blades or cable Invest Northern Ireland, is very supportive manufacturing. of the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland generally and as a result, Belfast Expertise and track record Harbour Commissioners is confident that, Crucially, Belfast Harbour has the together with its partners in the public and expertise and track record of delivering private sector, a compelling package can of major port infrastructure projects in be put together to attract further supply shortened timescales, evidenced no more chain and manufacturing activity to the so than by the D1 Offshore Wind Terminal Belfast Harbour area. project which was taken from concept to completion in 22 months. This agility and Belfast Harbour speed of execution makes Belfast Harbour www.belfast-harbour.co.uk the perfect port partner for the offshore wind sector.

Belfast Harbour based businesses With several other Belfast Harbour based businesses operating successfully in this sector, such as Harland & Wolff, and Ridgeway Renewables (a leading provider of innovative scour protection solutions), the ‘business’ element of the hub is increasingly well developed.

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“We have a great heritage and our Energy company commitment to renewable energy is unrivalled, we are building on that and refocusing on the way the market is leads the way evolving to ensure we offer our clients what they want when they want it. We Established in 1992, B9 Energy has Ambitious future plans have begun to engage with our clients been at the leading edge of the wind These are exciting times for the company, and other industry related organisations industry, both in the UK and Ireland, over the past twelve months it has much more profoundly, developing a for over 20 years. been making significant changes in its partnership based business model.” management, designed to invigorate the From developing its first wind farms company and to take it forward as its Collaboration through to delivering wind farm operations core onshore market trebles in size over One such partnership is with Belfast and maintenance services and now on the next 5 years with the offshore market Metropolitan College. Recognising to Anaerobic Digestion, Fossil Fuel Free developing even more rapidly. the increasing demand for skilled Ships, Landfill Gas and most recently labour B9 and Belfast Metropolitan developing an Energy Storage solution for A six month programme involving 13 of College have combined their industrial both on and offshore intermittent power the company’s most senior personnel and academic expertise, to provide generation, B9 is involved in virtually has been developing plans to enhance its a training environment that promotes the whole range of renewable power product offering to deliver a greater depth the development of wind energy skills generation options. of service in its current markets and to and knowledge. The partnership began broaden its capabilities allowing it to look with an Assured Skills and Customised First Flight Wind further afield, particularly offshore. Training programme which includes the Perhaps most excitingly for the future, B9 delivery of a Level 2 and Level 3 vocational is part of the First Flight Wind collaboration Solid foundations for growth Diplomas in Wind Turbine Operation and with Dong Energy and RES that has been Recently appointed Managing Director, Ian Maintenance. granted offshore wind farm development Haugh, believes the company is well placed rights off the County Down coast. to face the challenges that come with This collaboration has created training being involved in such an attractive sector solutions for the wider wind sector which The company’s head office is in Larne and that the company’s two decades in can add value to offshore wind operations in – half an hour up the coast from Belfast wind energy provide a great foundation on Northern Ireland in general and has enabled Harbour, the site of the first purpose- which to build successfully: “The outcome B9 in particular to offer experienced, well built offshore wind installation and pre- of the work the management group has trained technicians to the pre-assembly and assembly harbour in the UK or Ireland been doing is that we have liberated a commissioning operations currently taking developed at a cost of £50 million and huge amount of talent existing within place in Belfast Harbour. now leased to their partner Dong Energy. the company without losing any of the The company is planning to open its own experience and wisdom of those who B9 Energy satellite office in Belfast Harbour in the built it in the first place. www.b9energy.co.uk coming months.

Largest independent wind farm O&M service provider A founding member of the Global Wind Alliance, B9 Energy O&M Ltd is the B9 company that provides wind farm operation, maintenance and management services and in the two decades since it was formed it has become the UK and Ireland’s largest independent wind farm O&M service provider, operating over 500 turbines for a range of major utility owners, OEMs and large scale private owners, including financial institutions.

Growth in wind energy The company has recently signed contracts for two new wind farms in Scotland and Cornwall and are anticipating further growth in each of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales in the remainder of 2013. These new contracts will push the B9 Energy operated and maintained figure beyond 600MW by the end of this year.

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Project detail First Flight Wind The company will advise on metocean requirements and provide baseline site characterisation to inform the impact assessment of appoints ABPmer to the offshore wind development and the associated export cable that is necessary for the planning application. The study will be undertake Physical informed by data collected from two wave measuring buoys and associated instrumentation to be deployed within the WRZ later Process Assessment this year. Opportunity First Flight Wind Ltd, a consortium made up of B9 Bill Cooper, ABPmer Managing Director said: “We are delighted Energy, DONG Energy and RES, has appointed ABPmer to be given the opportunity to work with First Flight Wind. We to undertake physical process studies to support the have undertaken many similar assessments for the offshore Environmental Impact Assessment of the first offshore wind industry and recognise that our physical process studies wind farm planned off the coast of County Down in provide an important contribution to many other EIA topics, Northern Ireland. The proposed 600MW wind farm will such as the human and biological environments, by offering be located within the Wind Resource Zone in the Irish the basis of describing relevant physical impacts on their Sea and will be at least 8km off the County Down coast. associated receptors.”

Dr Carolyn Heeps, Project Development Manager of First Flight Wind said: “As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment, First Flight Wind will undertake a suite of surveys within the Wind Resource Zone and assess the potential impacts of this offshore wind farm. It is therefore crucial that all the surveys are robust. We are pleased to appoint ABPmer who will carry out the Physical Process Assessment as they are very experienced in this field of study having worked on many other UK offshore wind farm projects.”

Industry experience ABPmer is a leading UK marine environmental consultancy providing specialist services to the marine renewable, port and maritime industry sectors. The company has undertaken physical process studies, metocean analysis and strategic research for the offshore wind sector since 1999, delivering over 180 technical reports to more than 30 separate offshore wind projects around the United Kingdom.

ABPmer www.abpmer.co.uk Are you looking for a specialist service supplier with experience in the wind energy industry? With 1200+ companies listed, it is the website to find an expert

The Click to view Communication more info Hub for the Wind Energy Industry

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At the forefront of education and training in Northern Ireland

Belfast Metropolitan College is the Wind sector skills requirement B9 Energy is proactive in working with largest single provider of vocational In support of the burgeoning wind sector skills engineering staff from Belfast Metropolitan education and training in Northern requirement, Belfast Metropolitan College College to produce training programmes Ireland meeting the educational and B9 Energy combined their industrial that integrate and emulate the key and training needs of a diverse and academic expertise to provide a training elements of wind turbine technology, while range of individuals, companies and environment that promotes the development Belfast Metropolitan College engineering communities in the greater Belfast area. of wind energy skills and knowledge. staff complete all relevant health and safety training and spend significant The college recognises the significance Unique collaboration periods of industrial secondment with B9 of further education, vocational training This unique and dynamic collaboration Energy technicians, to fully understand the and lifelong learning in promoting social began in 2011 with Belfast Met formulating challenges faced by wind operatives. development through their curriculum the development of a three phase strategy and work closely with Invest NI and the to meet projected recruitment demands Meeting customer needs Department for Employment and Learning. in the short, medium and long term. B9 Shane Mawhinney, Director of B9 This ensures our engagements with industry Energy, the largest independent operator Energy said “Our aim is to meet the are aligned with strategies to embed key of wind farms across the UK and Ireland, customer’s needs at every level, and at economic policy, developing the college’s with 49 sites and 750 turbines under B9 we take pride in attracting, developing capability to be a driver for local, sub-regional contract, recognised the added value of and retaining highly talented, motivated and regional development, collaborating formally accrediting technical training and individuals to uphold our reputation for with key stakeholders to provide a flexible staff development. excellence. B9 operatives are assessed approach to skills demands. against National Occupational Standards, The strategic training programmes, aligned reinforcing our commitment to quality and to B9 Energy operations deliver a robust staff development.” quality assurance system, demonstrates the competence of their workforce and provides confidence to existing and potential clients in their ability to meet contractual obligations.

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Government support The Department of Employment and Learning support the collaboration Commitment providing funding to develop the capacity Belfast Met is committed to the to support B9 Energy through the Training investment advancement of skills in the wind energy delivery of Level 2 and Level 3 vocational Investment in training and continuing sector and understands the value of Diplomas in Wind Turbine Operation and professional development is a pre- providing access to equipment and Maintenance and a level 3 Technical requisite for success in today’s business technical expertise to provide a wide range Certificate which is now an integral part of environment and our mission is to provide of sector specific training programmes wind apprenticeship frameworks. training that promotes the development of through their partners in the Energy Skills skills and knowledge in the wind sector. Training Network. Innovative solutions Through innovation in the delivery of our Belfast Met and B9 Energy are at the training programmes and collaboration The college works closely with the National forefront of innovative solutions in with industry with students from our Skills Academy for Power, Energy and Utility assessing competence in this sector renewable energy courses recently gaining Skills and the Renewable Training Network with B9 Energy embracing strategies to experience with Offshore Wind Force at as an integral part of the national forum to integrate their experience, training senior the DONG Energy logistics and assembly provide technical training for the sector. operatives as work based assessors, facility in Belfast Harbour. becoming an integral part of the Working together assessment process. Economic development project Energy and Utility Skills, the Sector Skills In September 2012 the college launched a Council responsible for the development This pioneering work developed by Belfast new £18M economic development project of the Wind Turbine qualifications, have Metropolitan College and B9 Energy has e3, a state-of-the-art BREEAM excellent been working closely with the course team been successfully piloted for the last two standard training facility, incorporating and at the college. years across the UK and Ireland, currently showcasing the latest in renewable energy promoted by the National Skills Academy as and energy management technologies. Joanne Sykes, NI Engagement Manager a model for the sector. Belfast Met and B9 said “The partnership between B9 energy Energy will assist DONG Energy to embed The new e3 renewable workshops are and Belfast Metropolitan College provides this robust quality assurance mechanism designed to emulate current industry an innovative solution to meet the skills into their apprenticeship programme, linking practice and the training portfolio caters demand within the energy sector. EU Skills up with Swale Skills Centre to deliver the for a range of wind energy technical are encouraged by the progress, following industry standard City & Guilds Level 3 support including… on from the work carried out to develop Electrical Power Engineering Wind Turbine the National Occupational Standards.” Technical Certificate and the Level 2 & • Control and Instrumentation 3 Wind Turbine Vocational Diplomas in • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Belfast Metropolitan College Installation and Commissioning & Operation • Fluid Power – Hydraulic and www.belfastmet.ac.uk and Maintenance. Pneumatic • Mechanical Engineering • Aeronautical Engineering • Civil Engineering • Composites Manufacture and Repair (Blade Repair Techniques) • Metal Fabrication, Welding/Inspection • NDT

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Another new UK office for CEI Collins Engineers Ltd Armed with a specialised set of Structure Assessments (Rope capabilities that includes underwater Access, Underwater Diving, and structural assessments performed Imaging) by engineer-divers, and above water The company has undertaken structural inspections performed using rope assessments of renewable energy access technicians, Collins provides structures and is looking forward to engineering services to a variety broadening its client list with its other of energy infrastructure agencies services as well, such as underwater 3-D worldwide, serves within numerous high resolution imaging to provide owners technical working groups and belongs significant value in monitoring submerged to industry organisations including conditions before, during and after ADC(UK), COPRI Marine Renewable installation for warranty, certification, and Energy Committee (Technical scour monitoring purposes. Subcommittees for Structures, Environment Loadings, and Risk/ Collins has used a variety of non- Reliability), and ACI International destructive testing methods and has Committee on Offshore and Marine developed training worldwide on marine Concrete Structures. structure design, assessment and repair topics. This offers flexibility in its inspection Additionally, the company has over thirty services, offering both underwater and engineers trained in drilled shaft design above water capabilities that employ and inspection through the National engineer-divers. Highway Institute. Asset Management New office Often, the company’s services include Collins has opened an office in Greater assembling structure inventory data into Manchester adding to its longstanding purpose built databases that manage offices in Dublin, Belfast, and 18 other inspection and maintenance records by Case study locations worldwide. storing data and photographs, allowing SSE (Airtricity) Wind Turbine Foundation sorting by user-specified characteristics, Inspection Training Development Key services include… and having the capability to print one-page Collins was commissioned to develop • Rope access examinations by IRATA summaries of each structure. and conduct a comprehensive two-day qualified inspectors wind turbine foundation inspection training • Underwater engineering with engineer- The service also provides a simple course for the owner’s engineering and divers but powerful algorithm for prioritising operations staff. The training was designed • Underwater acoustic imaging, maintenance and repair operations based to introduce a formalised inspection providing the unique ability to show on the condition of the structure and its program for foundations throughout the clients an overall 3-D model of exactly role in the overall system. These databases world. The training covered all aspects of what divers saw or felt below water, can be modified and customised to meet the design, construction, and inspection regardless of water clarity any special requirements of an agency of foundations and mast towers, and • Asset management database to co-ordinate the data with other asset included, but was not limited to… development and training/manual management systems. • Principles of wind turbine foundation development design • Properties of materials - concrete, steel • Typical modes of failure on tower systems • The inspection process of wind systems/tower systems (duties and responsibilities of the inspector): • Planning inspection programs • Inventory collection • Principal, routine, and special inspections • Prioritisation/reporting • Repair and rehabilitation • On-site application of inspection procedures

CEI Collins Engineers Ltd www.ceicollinsengr.com

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Ormonde Offshore Wind Farm The Ormonde Offshore Wind Farm Advantages Engineer’s Perspective is located 10km off Barrow-In- One consequence of adopting a space- John Paul O’Sullivan, Senior Project Furness, in the Irish Sea. The wind frame design for the foundation is that Engineer at FoundOcean said, “It was farm comprises 30 RePower 5MW it opens up the possibility of using an exciting for FoundOcean to be a part of wind turbines producing 150MW Ordinary Portland type cement. The the Ormonde offshore wind farm, it was of power, and 1 substation. This is advantages of using this type of cement, the first project of its kind to use multiple sufficient to supply the equivalent apart from its lower cost per tonne jacket foundations in European waters. of approximately 100,000 homes per than the materials normally associated year with clean power. The turbines with offshore wind, is in its ability to be “At times the installation process was cover an area of 8.7km2 in total. delivered and used offshore in silos. This halted due to poor weather, but the delivery option will increase the efficiency crucial phase was completed within the Foundation description of the offshore installation process through timeframe and before the winter weather The 31 four-legged steel jackets were both faster mixing, and enabling the had a chance to affect the project. We secured to the sea bed by their four main grouting vessel to stay on-site longer by grouted 123 of 124 annuli in accordance legs which were inserted into pre-driven storing more material. This is seen by with offshore grouting procedures set piles. To form the connection between the FoundOcean, and generally accepted by by FoundOcean. One annulus was leg and pre-driven piles, cement grout was the industry, as being a major factor in completed using standard contingency injected into the annulus around the pile contributing towards the cost target of procedures. and stab-in-leg. Each leg had a primary £100/MWh. and secondary grout line through which We were pleased with the final grout could be pumped. The mixing system outcome and the project went on to The Ormonde project was the first project, win the Large Project Award at the Unlike the grout hose connection system on later followed by Thornton Bank and then inaugural RenewableUK Energy Awards an oil & gas jacket, the Ormonde jackets’ Borkum West II, where this opportunity 2012. Together with Offshore Design grout connectors were located on the jacket presented itself. The cement was stored Engineering Ltd, REpower and Vattenfall, transition deck, which made for speedier in 50-tonne bulk pressurised silos before we were recognised for our exceptional hose connections and disconnections when being delivered to a surge tank above the achievement in constructing the moving between the installations. mixer. Water was delivered to the mixer Ormonde Offshore Wind Farm.” system from the vessel’s firemain. The Ormonde project was the first large- FoundOcean scale project of its kind in Europe to use www.foundocean.com jacket-type or space-frame foundations. The choice of a particular type of foundation is Click to view more info normally a decision based on a number of factors surrounding the site conditions and how the entire installed system interacts = Click to view video with these local conditions; this is one of the reasons why in some instances it is possible for one project to have a mix of foundation types.

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“During construction Powerteam employed 25 people and helped boost Powerteam the economies of nearby towns by working with various local suppliers.”

Ireland’s national target plugs in £3.6m Athea and other SSE wind farms located in West Limerick, will help towards achieving Ireland’s national target of wind farm 40% renewables by 2020 and the EU’s mandatory 20% reduction in carbon One of Ireland’s fastest Responsibilities emissions. growing high voltage (HV) Powerteam was responsible for the electrical design and build electrical design of the substation which Alastair concluded: “We are delighted to companies Powerteam, a wholly will connect the 16 turbine wind farm to the be part of the Athea project which builds owned subsidiary of ESB, is in electricity grid, procurement of equipment, upon our relationship with SSE both in the final stages of completing civil engineering work, installation of the UK and Ireland. It is also pleasing the £3.6m electrical Substation electrical equipment, commissioning and to be nearing completion of the Athea construction and fit out for testing of installed equipment and overall project having completed similar work the Athea wind farm in County project management. on the Dromada wind farm in 2010, also Limerick. for SSE Renewables, a few miles from Alastair Dawson, Managing Director, Athea.” The wind farm, located to the north of Powerteam said: “The Athea project is our Abbeyfeale, close to the village of Athea, seventh wind farm project for SSE and Project progress will add a further 34MW of wind capacity our 42nd wind farm project in the UK and Seamus Lynch, SSE Renewables to SSE’s portfolio, bringing its total Ireland. Those 42 wind farms represent Project Manager for Athea Wind Farm, operational wind farm capacity in Ireland enough renewable energy to power more commented: “Over the coming months to over 500MW. than 675,000 homes for a whole year. we’ll be assembling the remaining

The Global Wind Alliance providing O&M services– whatever way you want it The Global Wind Alliance (GWA) Renewable Advice, who have the UK’s Gearbox inspections justify operates as a virtual corporation, first suspended platform for blade repairs, investment providing operation and maintenance was on site within 72 hours and a repair Independent service providers are often services for wind farms. It is on both the inside and outside of the used for end of warranty inspections, headquartered in Northern Ireland and blade was successfully carried out on the Stork Technical Services demonstrated has 12 member companies from across crack which was completely through the the value of these inspections when they Ireland, UK and mainland Europe. sandwich structure of the blade shell. performed gearbox inspections on a site with 40 turbines recently. Well established To minimise the costs, The GWA is well established in this field the owner chose to have with each of the member companies just 10 of the turbines being specialists in their own range of inspected. The first 9 services. As the wind industry matures, were in good shape, the dependency on OEMs to provide all but the 10th showed the knowledge and support for wind farm main bearing damage. owners is changing but it is good to know Undetected, this would that the jump from an OEM to an ISP does have incurred costs of not have to be made in one go. It can be almost €500K for the done progressively, balancing risk and owner. Stork were then reward. Examples of this can be seen in contracted to inspect all some of the recent solutions that GWA the remaining gearboxes members have provided to owners. in the wind farm and 2 more gearboxes were UK’s First suspended platform discovered with major for blade repair gear problems. This Blade experts, Renewable Advice, highlights the importance were called in when a blade defect was of end of warranty observed during a scheduled service, inspections as an activity but the OEM was unable to schedule not to be overlooked. a suitable time to undertake the repair.

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turbines and we aim to complete the Future projects Powerteam handover of Athea to our SSE generation Powerteam are currently working on a www.powerteam.eu.com colleagues by December 2013. When number of other wind farm projects in the UK completed, SSE’s Co. Limerick wind and Ireland together with various large scale Image – L to R; John Ferris, Powerteam; farms will have a combined generation electrical infrastructure projects for customers Ghislain Demeuldre, Constructions capacity of 68MW, producing enough such as Scottish Power, Northern Powergrid, Manager SSER and Seamus Lynch, energy to power up to 350000 homes.” Electricity North West and SSE. Construction Project Manager, SSER

the harbour. The large decks enabled Support additional services, such as diving Uncertainty is coming into the industry support, to be easily added improving the as governments in Spain, Greece, Italy overall efficiency of the service. and even Germany threaten to introduce changes to the tax or tariffs that will reduce the revenue of wind farms. In this climate of uncertainty, the GWA can support wind farm owners by offering cost effective services.

And as mentioned earlier – the key message is that the jump from an OEM to an ISP does not Six of the GWA members are Northern have to be made in one go. The risk can P&O Create 20% more time in the Ireland companies, and three of these - B9 be managed by making the transition working day Energy O&M, Bartons Industrial and Avex in stages, balancing risk and reward to When the owners of the Lynn and Inner Ltd - are highlighted in separate articles achieve an improved overall return. Dowsing offshore wind farm were looking within this Spotlight on Ireland feature. for an offshore solution to support their Global Wind Alliance technicians, P&O responded rapidly Future industry growth www.globalwindalliance.com with the conversion of the European With wind installations forecast to grow by Seaway. The vessel provided an offshore an average of 15% per year until at least platform with accommodation for up 2016, the future looks bright. However to 140 technicians, avoiding the usual our industry has not been immune to the one-hour shuttle journey each way from economic recession.

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Turnkey installation Team effort New contractor Stephen Kane, MD of Ridgeway EDF Energy Renewables awarded Renewables, said “It took a significant innovative specialist engineering and solutions amount of team effort to make this company, Marske Site Services (MSS) the project happen and we are particularly vital role of turnkey installation thinking on contractor for the placement of the Filter Units. From this point scour by Ridgeway Renewables were sub-contracted to supply and fill the filter units at the Port of EDF Sunderland.

EDF select “Kyowa Filter Units” for Collaboration and monopile scour protection on Teesside co-operation Offshore Wind Farm (TOWF) MSS utilised the 7000te subsea construction vessel, Ridgeway Renewables have successfully the Maersk Responder to supplied the first “Kyowa Filter Units” from safely and accurately place Japanese manufacturer Sumisho Kyowa the scour protection in the Limited for offshore wind turbine monopile Tees Bay. This represented a scour protection in Europe. tremendous example of business collaboration and co-operation Using a combination of the 4 & 8 tonne to move a project like this along type units filled with specific aggregate in at a pace faster than normally a circular formation around the monopile, associated with the largest engineers were able to achieve tough projects in this sector.

pleased that collectively all businesses came together to deliver the project ahead of schedule and to the satisfaction of our clients.”

John McCullagh, MD of MSS, also commented “Ridgeway and their friends from Japan have been great to work design criteria set for sea and wave Logistics with. Together they’ve played a key role conditions. Filter Units offer virtually- With a limited working window, Ridgeway in establishing the benefits of this unique no-maintenance scour performance along with their quarries and filling scour protection system over traditional protection by having a flexible structure. contractor mobilised on site within days rock dump and concrete methods into They are easy, safe and fast to install and at The Port of Sunderland, commencing the market and have been instrumental are made from 61% recycled water bottles the filling operation on 18th March and in persuading the client and their design and offer a natural eco habitat for marine completing in exactly one month. During team to run with the system. They have life when installed. this time Ridgeway and MSS maintained proved their capability on the filling site and operated a strict health and safety in an efficient, safe and professional Working together protocol on site working to the arranged manner. We see a great future ahead Ridgeway worked closely with the dates to complete the quantity of filter for this product and the team now developer EDF Energy and the consulting units required to follow the vessel established.” engineer Ramboll, who were responsible installation schedule. for the scour protection design. Following On completion of the work EDF Energy many meetings with the design engineers The MSS Engineering team mobilised the Renewables Project Manager Tim and the TOWF project management team vessel, coming up with a unique solution Bland thanked the team at MSS for the the green light was given to utilise the for safely transporting an extra-large load “brilliantly executed job.” innovative solution for scour protection on of filter bags, which combined with a 11 of the 27 turbines. 50% improvement in the time taken to Ridgeway Renewables complete each monopile. www.ridgeway-online.com

74 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor spotlight on Ireland Northern Ireland celebrates World Wind Day 2013 with Simple Power

Worldwide event The onshore wind industry has the To mark Global Global Wind Day is a worldwide event potential to contribute almost £1million that occurs annually on 15 June and to annually to the Northern Ireland economy, Wind Day 2013 celebrate the growth of wind energy in whilst the overall potential annual value of recently, Northern Ireland, Simple Power gave the renewable energy market is estimated interactive tours of its single wind turbines to be almost £2billion per annum by 2020. Northern to schools throughout the region . Partnerships Ireland wind The children were shown how the Simple Power works in partnership with company uses wind to contribute to landowners and farmers and is on target energy company, renewable energy generation, help to develop a minimum of 200 single wind the environment and support the rural turbines of 250kW across Northern Ireland Simple Power, economy by turning farmer’s land into an over the next four years. additional source of income. hosted a series Simple Power of events to Medium scale wind www.simplepower.co Simple Power believes medium scale wind celebrate the development has a very important role to play in creating a new electricity market in power of nature Northern Ireland. It is recognised as one of the key opportunity areas for economic at its single growth with wind energy currently delivering a real dividend in terms of jobs wind turbines and over 4,000 people are currently on farms employed in the Northern Ireland wind throughout the energy sector. region.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 75 Spotlight on Ireland feature sponsor

that sees highly skilled candidates entering A unique opportunity the wind sector. Initial projects and courses are now available to try and attract skilled Ireland has potentially the best 68% of the industry’s staff work in personnel to enter the wind industry in offshore wind resource in Europe, construction and this is expected to Ireland, with post grad courses now open having over 10 times its land mass in increase with the proposals infrastructure for registration not only in Renewable territorial waters. requirements. Furthermore every year Energy, but also Wind Energy Technology. there are significant numbers of high The latter of these courses is aimed at Foresight calibre professionals retiring from the people who are out of work with relevant Organisations and investors have renewable energy candidate pool and engineering experience and are pursuing a envisaged the island as a wind energy there is an ever increasing shortage of career in the wind industry. hub for many years, this is reflected in the experienced professionals for key roles. prominent role Ireland will play in Projects the proposed European Supergrid, There is no doubt that the a renewable energy project that Energy Bridge project and aims to decarbonise Europe over Supergrid project will be positive the next four decades, with Ireland enhancement for a slow Irish and the UK leading the way in the economy, but to ensure that their initial phases of construction. full potential is met it is important that proper measures are in place Supergrid to ensure that the skilled staff are The Supergrid is likely to build on available. the energy bridge between the UK and Ireland which will see Dublin It is key that the decision makers alone try to export up to 5,000mw recognise a need to replace the daily to the UK by 2020. This professionals leaving the industry agreement could pave the way for with skilled, knowledgeable the building of extensive clusters talent to ensure these skills and of wind farms throughout the Irish competencies are retained within midlands and off the country’s Cathy McCorry the industry, in addition to having coast to supply power directly to the correct retention strategies our European neighbours. in place to ensure long term sustainability and growth. Not only will this help Ireland reach its Over the next 5-10 years around 25 per 2020 target of producing 16% of its overall cent of the industries most experienced Recruitment specialists energy usage from renewable sources, engineers are expected to retire and there Cathy McCorry, Managing Director but it will also provide crucial stimulus for a is an insufficient amount of talent to replace of Xellient International Recruitment crisis hit economy. Ireland currently has a the void they will leave in terms of skills and Specialists commented “The skill much greater renewable energy resource experience. This situation is anticipated to shortage is indeed a challenge for many than it can currently utilise or that it can worsen even further to a severe shortage, companies and having the right mix of accept into a small island system, this when the extent of energy innovation and skills and experience is critical for their prospect could mean proposed annual infrastructure replacement that is required success. Xellient work closely with our export revenue of up to 2.5 billion euro is taken into account. clients to source skills and expertise for 25 years as well as a potential 40,000 from all over the world for positions they manufacturing jobs. Attracting the right people have. We specialise in sourcing these The renewables industry in general has hard to find and sometimes rare skill sets Skills shortage always faced stiff competition from more and with our advanced talent mapping However with this potential for job creation traditional energy source providers, in techniques we constantly track the skills it is important to evaluate the long term particular the oil and gas industry who can and capabilities of active and passive future of the renewable labour market and offer large salaries and attractive bonus job seekers on a broader scale to secure with the proposals mentioned above at packages. For this reason the wind industry relevant talent. We are privileged to be such an advanced stage the wind energy does not attract as many candidates from supporting a number of local companies sector current threat is a shortage of disciplines such as electrical, mechanical involved in the Renewable Energy Sector relevant skills. and design engineering. in utilising this data to source particular skills for crucial roles that ultimately will Roughly 2,200 people currently work in the In addition, the lack of large multinational be imperative for their continued growth Irish wind energy industry, these positions wind organisations offering graduate and success.” range between initial phase workers such programmes in comparison to its more as wind analyst and design engineers, affluent & developed energy division Xellient International to construction engineers and project competitors, often resulting in these skilled www.xellient.com engineers and after completion turbine people emigrating for career advancement. technicians and maintenance engineers. Addressing the situation It is now paramount that Ireland addresses this situation and works towards a future

76 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor spotlight on Ireland

SmartBay Ireland SmartBay is Ireland’s national marine Test & Demonstration facility for Ocean Energy devices, and novel sensors & equipment. SmartBay Ireland provides facility’s for industry and university researchers alike which includes a network of sensors, buoys, cables and shore based platforms providing a range of opportunities to trial and showcase new concepts, technologies and solutions in a real world environment. Proposed power and data cable route from Spiddal pier to Spiddal test site at Marine Institute Planning for Irelands Subsea Observatory SmartBay Ireland, Marine Institute, Hydraulics and Maritime Research Centre (HMRC) and the Sustainable Energy Cork Buoy Deployment John Breslin, General Manager said “The Authority of Ireland (SEAI) have received SmartBay Ireland worked closely with successful deployment of the buoy, an award from the SEAI to install a power key stakeholders in Cork under the integration of sensors and transmission of and data cable from Spiddal pier in IMERC cluster on the deployment of a data is the result of co-operation between Galway Bay, extending to SEAI’s quarter SmartBay Marine Technology Platform. SmartBay Ireland and its collaborating scale ocean energy test site 4.5 kilometres This SmartBay data buoy is equipped with partners in the Port of Cork, the Irish east of the pier. sensors to support operational monitoring Naval Service and the Halpin Centre for of local weather, wave and environmental Research and Innovation. The cable itself will carry 400volts and high conditions and to facilitate a number of speed data communications via 10 pairs research projects in Cork Harbour. “We now look forward to developing and of optical fibres. The cable will be buried supporting a number of multi-disciplinary from the school to the pier in Spiddal and research projects and training initiatives will then be installed by a cable ship from with Beaufort Research, University College the pier to the test site. Cork and Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, which will utilise this buoy to The facility collect and disseminate data from multiple SmartBay Ireland has been in discussions sensors deployed on this platform.” with Mallin Consultants regarding the specifications and construction SmartBay Ireland requirements involved in the purposed www.smartbay.ie sub-sea power and data cable and shore Ocean Energy Prototype at Spiddal station. SmartBay Ireland will manage the test site at Ocean Energy facility on behalf of the Marine Institute.

Cork Buoy Deployment ‘Leaving the Naval base at Haulbowline’ at SmartBay

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 77 Spotlight on Ireland feature sponsor

Capital Dynamics invests in Northern Ireland wind farm

Dunmore wind farm “The Dunmore wind farm is an Capital Dynamics holds a 100% outstanding wind power project with very ownership stake in the project called the strong fundamentals in its location, both Dunmore wind farm and has commenced in proximity to the grid and a robust wind construction of the project securing a 15- supply.” said Rory Quinlan, Managing year agreement with a major UK power Director in the Clean Energy and retailer for the purchase of the energy Infrastructure team at Capital Dynamics. produced by the seven turbine scheme. “Using well-proven Vestas V90 turbines, this clean energy investment will offer our This means investors will begin receiving investors attractive cash yields year-on- steady streams of income immediately year under a 15-year sales contract with upon completion of the project and one of Ireland’s leading energy suppliers. commencement of power generation, Our team has significant experience in both of which are expected in the first onshore wind power in the UK, adding quarter of 2014. value throughout the construction and long-term operation phase.” Partnership Capital Dynamics has partnered with Clean Energy programme Capital Dynamics, a global highly experienced wind developer TCI “We are delighted to have made an private asset manager recently Renewables, whose specialist onshore investment in such a compelling wind announced that it has invested wind development activities span Great power project and in such a strategic in a 21-megawatt (MW) onshore Britain, Ireland and North America. The location,” said Stefan Ammann, CEO wind farm project in Northern project is fully complemented by a 15-year of Capital Dynamics. “With this latest Ireland. warranty, operation and maintenance direct investment in renewable energy, contract with Danish turbine supplier our Clean Energy and Infrastructure Vestas Wind Systems. program continues to gain momentum. We expect to make further investments “All Island” electricity market in high-quality clean energy projects over The Dunmore wind farm is situated just the coming months, offering strong and eight kilometers from the North Sea stable cash returns.” coast, near Limavady in County Derry, one of the highest wind speed locations Capital Dynamics in all of Europe. The project also benefits www.capdyn.com from exposure to the single “All Island” electricity market between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The “All Island” electricity market has committed to delivering 40% of its total electricity supply from renewable energy sources by 2020, the majority of which is expected to be supplied by wind power.

78 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor spotlight on Ireland

Global Wind Alliance member now deals with up to 275kv lines Avex Cable Jointing Ltd is based in Northern Ireland and provides cable jointing expertise for the UK and Ireland market who are members of the Global Wind Alliance

Specialist service The company provides this specialist service as part of the overall O&M services offered by the GWA. They have recently broadened their service offering to include Extra High Voltage (EHV) jointing and terminating up to 275kV.

TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE Harland and Wolff are bringing 150 years of shipbuilding experience to the design of both HV/AC and HV/DC offshore windfarm substations. FEaTurIng EuropE’s LargEsT dry dock 4 ISO 9001 4 ISO 14001 4 OHSAS 18001

Growing demand This development was driven by a growing demand for EHV jointing capability for new build wind farms and associated substation upgrades. This required considerable investment in manpower and equipment.

New EHV team The new EHV jointing team joins Avex’s existing HV jointing teams, which provides cable jointing and testing services up to 33kV for new build wind farms throughout the UK and Ireland.

For existing wind farm operators, Avex can provide emergency cable fault location, repair and testing services.

Avex Cable Jointing Ltd www.globalwindalliance.com Harland and Wolff T: +44 (0) 28 9045 8456 Heavy Industries Ltd M: +44 (0) 7976 897 850 Queen’s Island, Belfast E: [email protected] BT3 9DU, Northern Ireland www.harland-wolff.com

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 79 Spotlight on Ireland feature sponsor

Specialist training for the growing wind energy sector ARCH is leading the field in the provision of work at height and rescue training for safety personnel who have undertaken the wind energy sector in Northern Ireland. The company is the first and only work rigorous safety training in rope access, at height training provider based in Northern Ireland to have achieved accreditation height safety, first aid and rescue from RenewableUK and Global Wind Organisation, the industry bodies for the wind techniques. Their work has included energy sector, for the delivery of Working at Height and Rescue – Wind Turbines supporting blade inspection and repair training. of blades on onshore and offshore wind

Industry specific requirements Safety paramount turbines, and installation and dismantling This accredited training course has been To ensure the safety of personnel and of 80M high masts used to measure developed with the wind energy industry address risks associated with hub, blade weather conditions on proposed wind to meet the requirements of those and T-piece access, they deliver advanced farm sites. undertaking operations and maintenance access and rescue and rope access work in wind turbines, and covers the training. Leading the way safety and competence required for ARCH is recognised as a leader in the personnel working at height and rescue A range of supporting skills training is also rope access industry due to the high techniques. The course applies to both provided including manual handling, fire standard of safety training and experience onshore and offshore wind energy safety, first aid and emergency response of its team, and also having been activities. planning. successfully audited as a Full Company Member by IRATA International – the Training facilities Contracting services Industrial Rope Access Trade Association. ARCH delivers the training from its training In addition to training delivery, the facility in Co. Fermanagh and also delivers company provides rope access As a result of ARCH’s safety expertise, training throughout the UK and Ireland at contracting services; the team has leading international wind energy can onshore and offshore wind turbine sites. undertaken specialised rigging, safety safely address their maintenance To support offshore wind installation work and rescue cover services at wind turbine requirements using industrial rope access. based in Belfast, the company has a sites in Estonia, France, Poland, Sweden, new training facility at Ridgeway centrally Scotland, Spain and Wales. ARCH located at Belfast Harbour. www.archsafety.com Remote locations Their work is undertaken at heights of up to 100M in remote locations, and is undertaken by rope access and height

80 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor spotlight on Ireland

Equipment specification The continuous loop tether Safe line system allows the SRL attachment point to be easily transfer accessible from the boat in any tidal conditions. The Sealed SRL at Robin employs patented frictionless braking technology known as Constant Force. This braking Rigg mechanism has no moving parts and will not go out of adjustment offshore or require recalibration for the lifespan of the product. With its ATEX approval and IP69k rating, wind farm it is perfectly suited for the harsh environment experienced on Barton Industrial Services’ design offshore wind farms. and installation teams working for client, E.On UK Ltd were contracted Impressed by the solution and to supplying a reliable and innovative the quality of our workmanship, solution regarding the safe transfer E.On UK Ltd has entrusted from boat to ladders at Robin Rigg off- Barton with the Phase Two shore wind farm. installation of SRLs at Robin Rigg off- and offer a prompt response service shore wind farm. delivered by their technicians, trained Harsh conditions by equipment manufacturers to the Working in harsh conditions at sea, their Barton Industrial Services – the highest standards, and by their chartered team of highly trained technicians installed company engineering management team. 64 vessel to pile transfer Latchways The company are involved in both offhore Sealed Self Retractable Lifelines (SRLs) on and onshore wind turbine installation, Capabilities and services ladders which entailed hoisting tailor-made inspection and maintenance services A ‘one-stop-shop’ multi-disciplined posts using a davit crane onto a platform, ensuring maximum return from client’s approach for supply, installation, testing, securing the posts to the ladders with assets throughout the installation servicing, maintenance, statutory special fixing kits, attaching the SRLs to and O&M phase. They provide a inspection and repair of: the posts and testing the systems. comprehensive range of services and maintenance packages for all makes and • Fall protection systems Worker protection models of wind turbine, both during and • Service lifts The company’s solution ensured that after the manufacturer’s warranty period. • Lifting equipment the user is protected from falling when • Davits and cranes accessing the external turbine ladder from Although the company is based in Ireland • Ladders and accessories the transfer vessel. they also cover Great Britain and Europe • Fire suppressant systems • Accumulators • Rescue and climbing devices • Harnesses and associated equipment • First aid kits and emergency perishables • Tower cleaning • Rope access • Fall protection systems on meteorological masts

Customer service The Barton RFID tagging solution and tailor made inspection software package ensures that they deliver professional, reliable, prompt and thorough services to their clients.

Through a dedicated portal, their customers can monitor and review inspections of all components around the clock. They have instant access to photographs, critical alerts, documents and reports.

Barton Industrial Services www.barton-industrial.com

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 81 INDUSTRY UPDATE

Offshore wind rules set new standard for renewables sector

Lloyd’s Register releases all-new An eye to the future To support the development of these new Rules, Class Notation and Guidance Rob Whillock, Offshore Renewables Lead Rules, Lloyd’s Register developed a set of Notes for ‘Wind Turbine Installation Naval Architect at Lloyd’s Register said: “It client guidance notes (titled Mobile Offshore and Maintenance Vessels and is critical that throughout the process of Units - Wind Turbine Installation Vessels) Liftboats’ to reflect industry best independent assurance, there is an eye which were also approved at the recent practice and new novel designs. to the future of the industry as well as Offshore Technical Committee where more current guidelines.” than 100 industry stakeholders attended Mobile Offshore Unit Rule Lloyd’s Register’s Singapore based Group The new rules form part of the wider Offshore wind projects have tended to run Technology Centre. Mobile Offshore Unit Rule set 2013 late and over-budget, but the industry is launched by Lloyd’s Register in June, and forecast to grow at pace. The European Summary information is for vessels engaged in installation and/or Environment Agency’s (EEA) estimates These guidance notes provide summary maintenance activities relating to offshore that Europe’s offshore wind potential information on classification rules and wind turbines. It covers a significant is able to meet the continent’s energy regulations, national administration number of unit types as well as liftboats, demand seven times over. requirements, documentation required to whose primary function is to provide be submitted, and the Rules requirements support services to offshore wind turbine Whillock states that modern certification for various types of units used in installing installations or other types of offshore authorities have to offer technical solutions / maintaining offshore wind turbines. installation. that recognise industry’s future growth. “As the industry matures, we will see a Lloyd’s Register MainWIND greater number of larger turbines being www.lr.org/offshorerules Vessels which comply with the installed in deeper water and further from requirements of the new rules will be shore, such as the planned 9GW wind Ed’s Note – This can be accessed by eligible for a new classification notation farm at Dogger Bank, which lies some scanning the pink QR Code below or (MainWIND). 125km off the east coast of England,” said clicking on the online link. Whillock. “Such developments will require The release of the new Rules and owners and operators of offshore wind Click to view more info Guidance Notes coincides with reports farms to re-think their installation and that operators are suffering from the service vessels entirely. The new Lloyd’s substantial incremental rise in the cost Register Rules highlight the importance of constructing offshore wind assets of independent technical assessment of and is casting new light on the value of structures, systems and capabilities. We independent third-party assurance, and are demonstrating to the world that our how certification authorities are informing offshore Rules reflect best practice.” asset design and construction. Understanding the classification process The intention of the new Lloyd’s Register Rules is to help clients understand the classification process and clearly set out the rules to be applied to various vessels and unit types, from the Lloyd’s Register classed ship to the Mobile Offshore Unit.

82 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk CIVIC PROJECTS

At the current time, the green agenda and A new breed of the normal corporate agenda of a local authority are perfectly aligned. What this means is that every local authority wants onshore wind farm to boost its income, wants to help the local economy to get going, by creating Wind energy has been around for way house between commercial and jobs and new businesses, wants to lead quite a while now. Onshore projects community schemes and offer significant by example and improve its effectiveness have been brought forward for benefits. Importantly, they will help and efficiency. Whilst it is difficult to development for many years, but support the wind industry over coming identify how they might do this generally, almost exclusively by commercial years. the renewables agenda offers the perfect developers and operators. A small solution. By developing renewables niche in the market has been created Reasoning projects, they can tick all of the boxes that by community facilities, but these It is said that the primary reason why they want and still make some money to tend to be modest in size or linked to any local authority wants to become be ploughed back into local services. a commercial facility anyway. involved in climate change is to improve its carbon footprint. However, there are Ideal position Civic projects more pressing reasons in most areas. The And local authorities are in a good position But now there is a new breed of onshore recession has hit everywhere, including to do this: they own huge tracts of land wind energy facility coming forward: the public sector and there is a real need across the country, can borrow money civic projects. These are promoted and to find new ways to deliver services and very inexpensively (circa 2-3% currently) developed by local authorities, but differ create growth and jobs. and understand how to harmonise from the others in important ways. Whilst development with planning policies. As the projects are publicly funded, such they are able to bring forward many and therefore owned by the new and different sites for wind farm public, they are developed development that might otherwise never and operated on a fully get developed. commercial basis. These are a genuine half- Development examples There is a growing number of examples of this type of development. Preston City Council has a proposal for a 9 MW wind facility on land it owns near the docks; Bristol City Council is currently constructing a 4 MW facility on its land. Also Rochdale is keen to pursue a wind strategy intending to develop a range of sites across its land holdings.

Better understanding The commercial sector should be pleased with these developments. They offer more work and projects, but perhaps more importantly a better understanding from those authorities about the stresses of bringing such schemes to fruition. This can only be a good thing for future wind energy development.

Stephen Cirell www.publicsectorenergy.co.uk

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 83 Offshore training feature sponsor Pioneering a new direction in offshore safety training A world leader in safety Rapid growth in safety training New investment programme training for the offshore Mr. Leyden said the name change was The company, which delivers safety part of a business strategy to ensure training to over 240,000 people every year, and maritime sector has clients from across the company’s global is now embarking on a new programme changed its name to network have access to its services. of investment and acquisition to meet reflect their evolving role. the safety training needs of international “The global market for safety training clients, working in increasingly hostile and Falck Safety Services, which was formerly continues to grow rapidly, and as the difficult environments. known as Falck Nutec, is focusing world leader in this market, we took the increasingly on safety training as one of decision to re-focus our business more Mr. Leyden added: “It is an exciting time the four core business divisions of the clearly in this specialist area of activity.” for our safety training business, and we Falck Group worldwide. are looking forward to building on the Experience dramatic growth and success of the Trust worldwide Falck’s name has been synonymous with business over the past eight years. Colin Leyden, Managing Director of Falck safety and rescue training in Denmark Safety Services, said: “The Falck name and beyond for over a hundred years. “This re-branding opens a new chapter is trusted worldwide. The name change After acquiring the Nutec group in 2004, in Falck’s enduring commitment to underlines an emerging industry focus Falck Safety Services rapidly developed an delivering safety and rescue services that for the supply of services that integrate unrivalled portfolio of professional safety people know they can trust.” safety training with other operational and training courses delivered from over 28 process safety needs.” training centres worldwide. Falck Safety Services www.falck.com

Click to view more info Colin Leyden, MD of Falck Safety Services = Click to view video

84 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor offshore training

Image courtesy of Falck Safety Services

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 85 Offshore training feature sponsor

Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Working at height The quest by many of the major manufactures and operators for a global standard for training within the wind Training for the wind industry led to the forming of the GWO in 2012 and the subsequent development of the Basic Safety Training portfolio of industry courses. Which alongside a 2 day working at height training module, also included The UK commercial wind energy generation industry has grown exponentially modules covering; Fire Awareness, First since the first wind farm of 10 Vestas turbines was commissioned in November Aid, Manual Handling and Sea Survival for 1991. offshore operations.

Training Meeting the needs of the framework industry Here in the UK, It must be appreciated that the basic 2 the British Wind day working at height and rescue training, Energy Association developed and accredited by either of (BWEA), started these organisations, can only deliver work on developing the basic training requirements for wind a framework for turbine access, rescue and evacuation. All a basic working the fore mentioned training courses place at height training limits on areas of access and procedures. course to be widely This training is usually undertaken at adopted as the purpose built training facilities on wind standard minimum turbine simulators. training requirement within the UK. The Training and Competence 2 day course was It is important to establish the difference developed with between Training and Competence. These early wind farms were largely input from manufactures, operators and planned, erected, commissioned and training companies to meet the basic Training a person does not necessarily maintained by either direct employees requirements of all persons working at make that person ‘competent’. It is of the wind turbine manufacturer or height in the wind industry. however one of the key criteria to attain continental based sub-contractors. competency along with knowledge, skill The BWEA working at heights, guidelines and experience. Early training and standards document was launched The content and quality of training that in draft in 2006. The BWEA formed a For one of our major clients, we worked these people had received in relation to partnership with OPITO to audit and with them to develop a 3 day initial training working at height was, at first, variable. approve training providers to deliver course for their people employed in wind There was at this time no recognised its training program. In 2010, the now energy. The first two days follow the standard of content or delivery within the Renewable UK took the development standard basic working at height syllabus industry and accepted practices differed of the training in-house, leading to that is delivered at a purpose build training between countries and manufactures. establishment of a certification partnership facility. with SGS in 2012. To meet the increasing demand for their The third day is delivered at one of their turbines and the subsequent requirement Compliance requirements operational wind farms, where delegates for skilled and trained people, some of To meet the compliance requirements are taken through the site induction the larger manufactures set up in-house of global operations some companies process and the isolation and control training centres to primarily teach the developed their own training facilities procedures before being assessed technical skills required by the ever and programs. One example of this is accessing the turbine and undertaking growing number of technicians, engineers the Siemens training department who rescue practices from the ladder and and managers. Some of these training have developed an extensive portfolio within the nacelle. centres introduced safe access and of courses which it delivers through its evacuation training into their portfolios. training global facilities and accredited training partners. The working at height External training providers with experience training delivered at these facilities and its in delivering working at height and rescue outsource partners is standardised for its training into the well established telecoms worldwide operations and is tailored to the and oil & gas industries recognised the Siemens wind turbine fleet, their approved potential growth in the wind energy working practices and the equipment section. They quickly diversified to provide used by its workforce. dedicated wind turbine access and evacuation training.

86 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor offshore training

Proving its worth Regular practice This training has proven its worth on Once learnt, knowledge and skill levels several occasions by identifying individuals can quickly fade if not regularly practiced. that require additional coaching or For this reason the certification validity mentoring in order to be considered of working at height training in the wind suitable to be the second person in a energy industry is 2 years. It is recognised two person team. This additional training within the industry that especially for obviously has commercial implications irregular climbers e.g. some management to an operational wind farm, but this and support staff, skill levels can customer considers it a sound investment. significantly diminish within the two year training certification period. Additional training Access and the performance of tasks in This is most areas outside those defined in the objectives apparent in of the basic training are covered by additional rescue and training courses. These areas can include; evacuation spinners, hubs, blade roots, designated areas procedures as, of nacelles, access to tower cabling between we hope, these platforms, tower bases and blades. techniques are very infrequently Outside of some manufactures training, utilised outside there is presently no national or global of the training standard for advanced training. Any environment. access and rescue training beyond the basic requirements needs to be Training providers will always strongly comprehensive and relevant to the tasks recommend that these techniques undertaken, working environment and are regularly practiced to maintain an equipment used. For this reason it makes acceptable level of competence. Some sense for the training to be as bespoke companies formalise these practice and practical as possible. There is little sessions and appoint/train in-house value in practicing rescue techniques from demonstrators to plan, oversee and assess a Nordex N90 turbine hub if your duties these sessions. Most approved training are restricted to Siemens 2.3 Mw turbines. providers will also provide this service.

Progress and development As the wind energy industry progresses and develops, it is vital that the industry is served by trained, skilled, competent, safe people and that these high levels of attainment are regularly assessed and maintained.

Working at height is an integral part of the wind energy industry, and a part of the industry that is not without a potentially high degree of risk. With properly developed training programs developed with the input from organisations, manufactures, operators and accredited training providers, we can all play a part in the ongoing safety of our people.

Stephen Morris Training Manager Capital Safety www.capitalsafety.eu

Click to view more info

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 87 Offshore training feature sponsor

Location By placing their facilities in the hub of offshore wind activity, the Safety company is now equipped to deliver the most industry specific offshore safety training programmes to surrounding wind farm comes first for owners and operators. With giant offshore Round 3 projects such as the London Array (630 MW) and Dogger Bank (9000 MW) well underway, this offshore wind expansion couldn’t have come at a better time with the workforce of the sector now recorded at 4,000 full time employees. 22 years on from the installation of the first offshore wind farm in Denmark (Vindeby), and the Offshore Wind sector is still growing at a rapid rate.

Today 4,620 MW of offshore wind power is installed across the globe, with a massive 3,321 MW here in the UK, making us the current world leader in offshore power generation. But with this title comes responsibilities, with safety standards at the forefront.

Workforce safety paramount With Round 3 released in 2010, the biggest so far, construction is set to begin in 2014 with a huge 31 GW already leased to developers. This enormous surge in offshore wind projects will make the safeguarding of the sector’s workforce more important than ever.

One company working to meet this challenge is South Wales based safety training provider Safety Technology. Having recently joined forces with South Tyneside College’s Marine Safety Training Centre (MSTC), safety specialist Safety Technology has expanded their training capabilities to the North East of England.

Partnership Managing Director of Safety Technology, Bob Dickens said of their new offshore training capabilities “We are very pleased to have formed this partnership with the College to establish such world class facilities in the North East. The location and timing is very important to us given the planned future development in the region and the opportunity to service the huge growth in Offshore Renewable Energy, the Government Catapult programme, and the potential for job creation in the supply chain.”

Realistic simulation & practice With the hostile conditions of working offshore, it is vital that wind farm personnel are given an insight into the environment they will be working in before they step off the vessel for the first time. With this in mind Safety Technology have installed a new training tower, built to meet the RenewableUK standards, on site at the Marine +44 (0)3333 441113 Safety Training Centre (MSTC), along with hub rescue, mock nacelle and fire units. Within these facilities trainees will be able to encounter real life wind turbine rescue and evacuation scenarios, A new ApproAch as well as experiencing the harsh and turbulent conditions of to AviAtion impAct Assessments... working offshore in the MSTC’s 4 metre deep environmental pool. • pre-planning site assessments Adapting to future demand • Field surveys (accurate quantification of impact) The UK’s offshore wind sector is on an upward climb with a • Full aviation impact assessments further 18GW to be installed by 2020, by which point it will • impartial, expert advice from professionals supply around 20 per cent of the UK’s electricity each year. with 20+ years’ experience in communications engineering & Air traffic management With no signs of slowing down it is important that training providers continue to develop and adapt their training to meet Because measurement is the unique safety needs of working offshore. better than prediction. Katie Dawes Aerostat surveys Ltd. +44 (0)3333 441113 Safety Technology www.aerostat.co.uk [email protected] www.safetytechnology.co.uk

88 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor offshore training

Industrial rope access back-up devices - a review Heightec, a leading UK manufacturer Debate escalates UK perspective of specialist technical equipment for Whilst debate on the subject of back-up The review is written largely from a United work at height, difficult access and devices has escalated in recent months, Kingdom (UK) perspective, this being rescue, has written a review paper some of the issues regarded as topical the regulatory framework within which on Industrial Rope Access Back-up now were raised by far sighted users two heightec operates. Devices. decades ago.

The paper is “A summary of relevant It seemed that a proper understanding of Living document – non UK technical and legal information relating to the current state of affairs required all of contributions sought the historical development of industrial the information to be gathered together heightec sees the review as a ‘living’ rope access back-up devices”. and the review paper is heightec’s own document; and constructive feedback The selection and use of back-up devices reference point for establishing what and/or contributions from people within for rope access is one of the most a product must do to satisfy technical the industry are actively being sought; interesting and controversial topics in the and legal requirements in a robust and in particular from those who are able to fall protection industry. predictable manner. provide a non-UK view on the design, selection and use of back-up devices in Specifics industrial rope access. It is a review paper – it does not identify any specific issues, propose solutions or heightec discuss product characteristics. www.heightec.com

Whilst much of what is gathered here may be already known to many, there does seem value in presenting all aspects together with the hope that there will be something relevant to everyone.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 89 Offshore training feature sponsor Staying out of harm’s way while living offshore When working offshore or in a remote It is vital that all members of staff are trained area, there are many challenges in basic life-saving treatment as medical the job can bring. One of the main attention will not be available for anyone challenges is that the home comforts working offshore. An injury, accident or we usually take for granted are no collapse requires immediate treatment; and longer as available to us, making being offshore means you cannot rely on the a first aid emergency even more emergency services. Having the knowledge difficult to deal with. of first aid skills could save someone’s life when working in such remote areas. It may seem like a small likelihood that a serious medical emergency will arise, Are you ready? but if one did, would you or the people Knowing how to deal with a medical around you know what to do and how to emergency could prevent a minor accident deal with such a situation? Unfortunately, becoming a major injury. From patching in many cases the answer to this is ‘no’. up a slight graze on the knee to delivering The benefits The reason for this could be that there is effective CPR, all bases are covered in a Should someone suffer from sudden cardiac no requirement at the moment that states comprehensive First Aid training program. arrest it’s worth knowing that bystander all staff should be trained in basic first aid With this training you and your colleagues CPR can double a victim’s chance of when working in a remote area or offshore. can ensure that there will always be someone survival if given immediately. Only 32% of able to carry out the required duties. victims of cardiac arrest actually receive Current measures bystander CPR so having this responsibility The current first aid requirements for Training will not only safeguard you will give you peace of mind for the three offshore workers states that there must be a at work but in any First Aid situation, years that this qualification will last for; you first aider on site, but doesn’t make it vital for even if you’re a bystander in a medical can’t put a price on that. every worker to be trained rather the ‘person emergency in the public domain, you will in control’ is responsible for ensuring there know how to stay calm and what steps to Defibshop are sufficient first aiders. take in the rescue process. www.defibshop.co.uk Training for working offshore Wind turbines have a very high provide very effective dependency upon the use of training for engineers and hydraulics and vital to the overall technicians, ensuring that operation is that of oil cleanliness their skills and knowledge and contamination management in relating to hydraulic respect to both the hydraulic’s and systems, contamination lubricating systems associated with management enable gearbox transmissions them to be highly effective in maintaining Some wind turbines also employ closed and managing these hydrostatic transmission systems where systems. All of which performance and interpret results the link between the rotating blades and adds to the reliability and up-time • Know the symptoms associated that of electrical power generation is totally operation. with pending failure and the preventive hydraulic. measures that must be in place and the Analysing needs actions to be taken Offshore environment If we analyse the needs of our offshore • Know the dangers associated with The offshore environment is a challenge for Technicians and Engineers they must… the use of hydraulic systems and the both hydraulic and lubrication systems, but risk management/procedures that they we have many years of experience that we • Be able to read and interpret circuit must follow can call upon from supporting the training diagrams requirements of offshore oil exploration and • Know the function, operation and If we can educate and train to this base level extraction sector, both of which have a high control of the various component parts we have a good foundation to work upon. dependency upon the use of hydraulics. • Know the importance of contamination control and that of maintaining effective John R Savage Experience target cleanliness levels at all times Director With such background experience the • Know how to apply diagnostic National Fluid Power Centre UK NFPC has proved itself to be well able to techniques, measure and monitor www.nfpc.co.uk

90 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor offshore training

Engineers from other industries can solve energy sector skills challenges

offshore industries’ supply chain are The demand for skilled people transferable from other sectors. This enables companies to attract a wider to work offshore will see pool of workers, which is proving to be more and more vital as potential skills an increase in technicians shortages arise. transferring from other “Of course, there are some specific skills and competencies required for working industries, according to The TTE offshore, whether it’s in the renewables or hydrocarbon sectors and TTE has Technical Training Group. developed a range of programmes that

Although an increasing number of companies are investing in apprenticeships, industry faces an impending skills gap as its ageing workforce nears retirement.

Offshore wind sector growth Exacerbated by the growth in the offshore wind sector and the continuing requirements of North Sea oil & gas, the energy sector has an increasing requirement for skilled personnel.

TTE Technical Training Group The Middlesbrough-based training organisation works closely with industry to provide skilled technicians through its suite of apprenticeships and up-skilling programmes. TTE instructor Dave Stevenson (left) oversees AMEC trainee Neil With considerable Petrie (crouching second left) experience working with industry employers, TTE has developed its training provision to meet the ever-changing Group PSN to re-engineer technicians focus on these key areas and meet requirements of different sectors. with backgrounds in the armed forces and the exacting standards of companies other industry sectors to prepare them for operating in these environments. Training programmes working offshore. Its programmes cover disciplines such as “TTE is well-placed to support skills mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, Focused development for the offshore sector process, laboratory technicians, young These companies have engaged and has the experience, facilities and scientists, warehousing, and building with TTE to provide focused training expertise to deliver the levels of technical services, with many of the skills and programmes that deliver competencies training and qualifications required by the qualifications earned transferable across and qualifications required for individuals industry’s supply chain.” different sectors, including the oil & gas being deployed offshore. and offshore renewables. The TTE Technical Training Group Steve Grant, Managing Director of The www.tte.co.uk Recently, the group has worked with TTE Technical Training Group, said: organisations including AMEC and Wood “Many of the skills required in the

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 91 Specialist tools

No need for additional sensors Building-site Eliminating the need for additional sensors requires extra reliability, particularly on wet and dirty building sites. This means no compatible bolting need for sensors that might fail to operate properly due to a wet, dirty or oxidised documentation for plug contact or sensors that have been incorrectly connected or that might fall off in the rugged conditions of building site wind energy plants work or get damaged during transport. The wind industry is undergoing a transformation from the initial custom-built Furthermore, the Plarad BE X32 control approach to manufacture towards industrial production of machinery. Projects, unit operates in fully autonomous fashion. and indeed the turbines themselves, are becoming ever larger, especially It does need an extra PC at the site, when situated offshore. Wind farm operators and owners want to see that their either to call up the pre-defined bolting money has been well invested and need to be able to trace all the individual parameters or to document the actual manufacturing steps. procedures. The BE control unit can simply be attached to the hydraulic unit and is fully operational even in bad weather since it conforms to protection class IP 54.

Safety factors Making it suitable for building sites also means taking into account various safety factors. If specified by the site supervisor, workers must enter their employee numbers or names into the control unit, meaning that every bolting procedure can be traced to a specific worker afterwards. The drive unit automatically detects the actual bolting device connected to it and associates that device with the procedure inside the control unit. This means that there is no chance of mixing up equipment. Each procedure can then be directly stored on the control unit itself so that the worker can read it back at any time.

If an error is made in a procedure (e.g. due to operating errors or stripping of screws), the worker is informed of this via a fault notification. The corresponding data record is stored on the control unit to ensure that even faulty bolting procedures are documented and thus allowing for effective remedial work.

Secure database The data read-outs are stored in a database secured against manipulation and thus protected against tampering. If necessary, they can later be exported to Accurate documentation done at building sites themselves. Plarad an Excel file, making them available for Extensive and flawless documentation of does not require the bolting equipment to further processing. bolt fastenings is playing an increasing role be fitted with additional sensors in order in this. There are some projects exclusively to handle documentation. Torques and Plarad using documented bolt fastenings as part angles, if needed, are detected using www.plarad.com of their quality control. It is increasingly internal sensors inside the hydraulic important for documentation of bolt unit and the exact values measured fastenings to be carried out in a simple during actual fastening of the bolts are manner, especially when bolting work is simply archived in the control unit for the purposes of documentation.

92 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools

Protector cases total equipment protection, no matter where you go Peli Protector Cases protect Engineers tool kit everything from laptops to lasers. This 0450 model is used for the Keep tools, electronics and Engineers Tool Kit; where dual colour instrumentation safe, dry and custom foam enables easy identification cushioned from knocks and drops in a of missing items. There are seven specially designed case. removable drawers, offering a multitude of configurations, with the mobility and The 0450 tool case has been specifically benefits of a rugged, watertight Peli designed for the toughest offshore Protector™ Case. conditions. Peli cases have been chosen by leading Offshore Wind Energy Demanding standards Delta modules companies for their renowned qualities Holding up to 45kgs of tools, the 0450 A number of UK sites have now chosen in protecting sensitive equipment. The has been tested to meet and exceed to use the specifically designed case for cases are certified to IP67 and offer 96 demanding standards, including Delta Modules; these modules are large superior crushproof, waterproof protection high impact, extreme temperatures and heavy and have to be transported in in extreme conditions. and submersion. The top compartment safety to and from the offshore turbines for features a removable utility tray and a lid installation and maintenance. that opens 180° to create a mobile work area, capable of supporting up to 23kg of Peli Products UK, experts in protective weight. packaging solutions, designed a large Peli Hardigg case to protect the module Working with industry from the severe weather conditions and The company has worked closely over improve manual handling. This case a number of years with many leading has been designed with a custom foam Offshore Wind Energy companies insert to fit the module exactly; limiting to provide ruggedised storage movement in transit and protecting the and transport solutions that can unit, ensuring the module reaches the withstand the rigours of the harsh destination dry and in perfect condition. marine environment. It has now become the benchmark packaging for the Delta modules. By combining Peli Protector Cases with custom foam The company continues to work closely interiors, solutions have alongside the renewable industry, creating been designed for: solutions for storage and transportation Winch/Hoist Kits, in the challenging offshore environment. Electrical Test Their product range is ideally suited for Equipment, these conditions, the majority of cases are Accumulator Top watertight and corrosion proof and there Kits, Pendulum Bearing are over 70 sizes in the range. Kits and Coolant Top Up Kits. Peli Products UK www.peliproducts.co.uk

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 93 Specialist tools

it being surface preparation, repairing Unique abrasive power tools defects on moulds or trimming flashing from leading and trailing edges on turbine from Dynabrade blades the tool range covers all phases of production of moulds, turbine blades and Dynabrade has earned a reputation and position of continued leadership in the towers. innovation design and manufacturing of unique abrasive power tools. Founded in Clarence New York in 1969 Dynabrade is always looking for the best solution for its For surface preparation and repair they end users. have a complete range of vacuumed sanders from a random orbital sander Their products are supported technically products with no obligation, which is a with a 2.5mm orbit for ultra finishing to the at site by their application engineers who proven way to find which tools are best more powerful two-handed gear-driven are happy to call on customers when suited to a specific application. sander for rapid material removal. required offering a demonstration of their Working with Tool Spotlight manufacturers The two handed gear driven sander has Working closely with an epicycloicdal motion for aggressive manufactures in the wind material removal and filler sanding, energy, aerospace and marine therefore reducing application time. This sectors, the company has an tool has a powerful 900rpm motor and has understanding of the range of an overskirt/shroud for enhanced vacuum tools to achieve the finish that capability and greater work-piece visibility. would be required by these industries. Dynabrade www.dynabrade.com The Dynabrade Vacuum Tool range has been developed with Click to view more info the users working environment in mind reducing airborne dust at the point of application. Whether

The necessity for planned maintenance software

Mainprize Offshore Ltd has appointed PUWER regulations, listing each and every MaraSoft as their provider of the item on-board including switches, lights, MARAD planned maintenance sockets and of course loose lifting gear and software. They realise that to offer a lifting plans. truly 24/7-365 service their vessels need to be well maintained in line There is also a section to include the in-depth with and often above manufactures inspections and servicing of each item as recommendations. required. The guys at MaraSoft have been extremely helpful since Mainprize Offshore’s Essential information original set up some years ago. Since then They have at their fingertips so much they have fitted this system to four vessels information as well as the vessels and it will be fitted to the soon to be launched maintenance schedules. This is essential to MO1 and next year the MO2. taking full advantage of every opportunity that arises, be it a maintenance, weather or Professional standards standby days. occasions. They can fine tune the vessels The company strives to be classed against servicing to their operations, constantly the most professional operators, operating Their head office can view spares and reviewing their operations, work load and to ISO9001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001 consumables on-board, schedule service level required. to STCW95 standards with full planned maintenance, historic maintenance, vessels maintenance systems in place. certificates, loose lifting gear, past and due The system used correctly allows the viewing inspections. and retrieval of a huge amount of information Mainprize Offshore and includes sections on safety equipment, www.mainprizeoffshore.co.uk Accessibility certificates, drills and checks. This enables the company to bring forward MaraSoft services when time allows and also highlights LOLAR and PUWER regulations www.marasoft.nl if the manufactures service guides have They have also added sections to allow required adjusting, which happens on Mainprize Offshore to adhere to LOLAR and

94 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools Simulation test tank The ability to be able to simulate Cost effective solutions underwater situations that require These ROV tools provide cost effective specialist tooling required by customers solutions for clients in marine, oil, gas in order to solve problems was the and wind energy sectors across a range reason for creating the ROV test tank of contexts; some examples include designed and manufactured by Tyne locating assets, lifting, dealing with and Wear Marine Ltd. current, orientation, measuring chain thickness, retrieval, water sampling, gaining access to submerged vehicles and shipwrecks by blowing out windows and port holes – the list is not exhaustive and new uses and tools are added on an on-going basis as needs from clients are identified.

Hazardous water conditions Unusual enquiry! Inspections, surveys and practical lifting An unusual recent enquiry was from a are examples of the Micro ROV use and company requesting if they could use the it also reduces the need to place divers test tank for female models to display this in potentially hazardous water conditions season swimwear. Just goes to show you to carry out work or where the situation how versatile the ROV test tank can be. is dependent upon positive water conditions. Tyne and Wear Marine Ltd The tank enables the development, www.tyneandwearmarine.com manufacture and testing of unique tools in an The 22000 litre test tank is installed with easy location for demonstration, evaluation cameras to provide a variety of viewing Click to view more info and discussion with clients in relation to aspects to monitor and record the testing completion of the ever increasing range of activities and has ease of access and water tasks that utilise the Micro ROV. egress for safety from the top of the tank.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 95 Specialist tools

Rather than using out of date and low resolution imagery to assist with planning The Sky’s not the limit or marketing activity, modern high resolution cameras attached to unmanned Benefits from cost effective, safe and aircraft systems offer a cost effective and extremely high quality method of up to efficient aerial inspection technology date image acquisition. Classlane Media is a creative, Royal Additionally the negative impact on the Television Society award-winning effectiveness of assets due to downtime Safety, Efficiency & Cost film production company based in whilst they are scrutunised, assessed for Effectiveness Yorkshire and central London, with an maintenance or repair and the consequential From HD video that can greatly decrease international client base. interventions that arise are often lengthy. the time assets are non operational thus maximising their productivity as well as They provide high quality video and Often with complex and difficult to reach minimising the exposure of operatives film content for globally distributed structures, this requires operatives to ascend to danger; to high resolution images programmes that inspire, educate, them and navigate around them in order to that support environmental impact entertain, motivate and challenge. ascertain if any intervention is required. Not assessments and planning and design only is this a time consuming and costly decisions for new windfarms, hydro Dynamic team exercise it is also a potentially dangerous one. stations and associated insfrastructure, The company has a passionate, creative UAS platforms coupled with the latest and dynamic team – always ready to take Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) camera technology can offer a cost on new challenges and never satisfied with Using UAS carrying high definition effective andtime efficient solution. the ordinary. camera equipment not only speeds up the process of inspection but also limits Main Benefits Specialist unit the exposure of personnel to hazardous • Safety - reduce the need to have The company is delighted to announce situations and environments. people working at heights and in their specialist aerial unit for the wind hazardous environments energy industry. Their Unit Director of Once video analysis is complete either via • Reduced Costs - minimize downtime. aerial productions is a UK Civil Aviation the live feed and/or from the downstream Installations can be live or briefly Authority licensed pilot of unmanned review of high quality HD video, intervention suspended for inspection aircraft systems (UAS) and holder of the efforts can then be focused solely on those • High Quality Data - our broadcast European standard of competence. areas identified as requiring further work. quality cameras can help pinpoint areas of interest quickly providing a Condition Inspections Land Surveys real-time view via camera data link to Whatever business you are in, be it power Employing a UAS to assist with surveying the ground generation, power distribution, civil land offers a cost effective and high • HD video footage for downstream engineering, construction or environmental, quality way for assessing site suitability for analysis maximising the efficiency and safety construction, assessing the environmental • Targeted Maintenance - Data analysis of personnel and assets is critical. impact of and to proposed developments can direct maintenance efforts Assets require routine inspections and as well as a source of marketing imagery. towards where they are required, maintenance to ensure that they are leading to reduced asset downtime operating safely and at their most efficient. The company have worked with clients and lessened exposure to hazardous in both the capture of oblique panoramic environments for operatives. Traditional methods photos, ideal for site overviews, site Traditional methods of approaching scoping and marketing as well as geo High quality this often mean exposing personnel to tagged vertical images suitable for the The film footage is very high quality and hazardous environments and situations. creation of orthophotos. can be use in TV & video productions and specialise in multi-platform film productions, TV advertisements, Digital media strategy, online video platforms, leveraging social media and online film, cinematic aerial productions and inspections, film campaign management, analytics platforms, metrics, syndication & distribution.

Classlane www.classlane.co.uk

Click to view more info

96 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools fall prevention, climb assist

themselves as they learn how to deal with the challenges of height safety and rescue inside wind turbines.”

Stuart Cameron, Managing Director at Maersk Training Newcastle added, “Maersk Training offers state-of-the-art training facilities for customers from the wind, offshore oil and gas and maritime industries. Safe working at height is a key element of our training offering. Giving our delegates the opportunity to use the latest height safety techniques and products is core to our business and we’re pleased to be able to bring a Limpet® L5 to the training centre as part of that requirement.”

Specification Compact and rugged, the Limpet L5 can be used as a fixed or semi-portable solution, capable of solving the most difficult and expensive safety and access challenges in the harshest operating conditions.

The Limpet L5 is both tough and smart, but high quality does not always mean high cost. With a 25-year lifespan and an ability to perform multiple access functions, this yields better returns than alternatives. Installing the also ensures Edinburgh based, safety systems the Maersk Training centre in Newcastle that maintenance and operations teams pioneer, Limpet Technology is an ideal location in which to put our are safer, healthier, happier and more announced recently that it has Limpet L5 system. With the L5 installed productive. installed a Limpet® L5 fall prevention, on the 65 feet high wind training tower, it climb assist and personnel hoisting is perfectly positioned for trainees to get Limpet Technology system at the Maersk Training centre maximum value from its fall prevention, www.limpettechnology.com in Newcastle, UK. climb assist and rescue capabilities.” Maersk Training Newcastle Centre of Excellence He went on, “Partnering with a leading www.maersktraining.com Limpet Technology Director, Philip height safety training provider like Taylor said, “As an established centre Maersk will allow their delegates to of excellence for height safety training, experience the benefits of the L5 for

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 97 Specialist tools Novel floating LiDAR system deployed for trials Babcock’s innovative floating Light accurate measurement of wind speed, Further development Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system direction and turbulence. Babcock programme manager Liam to provide critical meteorological data Forbes said: “The deployment of our for offshore wind farm developers The company has also developed an floating LiDAR system for this six month at reduced cost, has been deployed integrated power (supplied by photovoltaic trial is key to proving the viability of our to start a six month trial of the new panels and micro wind turbines installed low motion buoy as an effective stable system in the Irish Sea. on the buoy) and communication system platform for the reliable and accurate to facilitate remote, autonomous operation recording and analysing of local wind Trials of the system, reducing the need for conditions. This will then allow us The floating LiDAR system is being trialled at regular visits to the platform. Additionally, to undertake further development to RWE’s Gwynt y Môr offshore wind farm, off the platform’s stability also makes for safer incorporate additional measurement and the north Wales coast, where it is positioned access and working onboard when routine monitoring equipment.” next to the fixed meteorological mast to six-monthly maintenance visits are made. enable comparison of information with that He continued: “The ability for offshore from the fixed mast, as part of a detailed Deployment windfarm developers and operators to independent assessment of the system. Deployment of the system for the trial use a floating platform for meteorological was achieved using a combination of a monitoring and information gathering in Specification crane barge (carrying the buoy) and a preference to a fixed one, to retain reliable The floating platform LiDAR system is a work cat to tow the system to the RWE and accurate data, will help to drive down low motion shallow draft spar buoy, and Gwynt y Môr trial location site, where it both construction and through-life costs is one of a new breed of technological was connected to the tri-catenary mooring for the windfarm, and will also be a improvements for the offshore wind system, comprising three mooring lines and valuable contribution to the development sector. It has been designed with three 15 tonne steel anchors to provide of the next generation deep water sites.” low motion characteristics to enable the required weight to keep it in position. accurate, high quality wind measurement The whole installation process was carried Babcock International data to be obtained without the high out without the need for any diving activity, www.babcockinternational.com costs associated with fixed platform with minimum risk and maximum construction for mast installation (which safety. Commissioning was then typically costs several million pounds, carried out by Babcock personnel increasing as developers move further fully trained to work both offshore offshore into deeper water). and at height.

Offshore Wind Accelerator (OWA) Additional trial The current trial of Babcock’s system is opportunities part of the OWA programme focused During the course of the trial, on reducing the cost of offshore wind Babcock will be exploring power, promoted and co-ordinated by the opportunities to further reduce Carbon Trust. the cost of deployment and recovery without compromising Wind data including velocity and safety, with the design of a direction is critical to windfarm planning, barge-mounted lifting frame development and operation. LiDAR which can be used in shallow systems (which measure wind speed and draft ports throughout the UK, direction by comparing the light from a so that no specialist vessels (only laser beam, reflected by microscopic dust work cats and readily available particles in the atmosphere, to a reference barges) will be required. light source) cannot provide accurate data if subjected to high levels of motion. This Following the current trial, future presents technical challenges that have to developments (for which the date limited the use of such measurement buoy has been designed) will and monitoring sensors offshore. include the ability to deploy a range of sensors and equipment Solving the motion issues to measure further key factors, Babcock’s floating LiDAR system (unlike beyond meteorological data many other such developments, where alone, including wave and tidal some form of motion compensation or activity, and marine mammal and post-processing of data occurs) has bird monitoring. The buoy has been designed to address the motion been designed to provide a stable issue simply by designing it to within an platform for such environmental, acceptable level of pitch and roll motion, meteorological and metocean which the Zephir LiDAR system can data measurement. accommodate, to facilitate reliable and

98 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools

On-site inspection, examination and testing Continual development and benefiting of workflow disruption, immediate minor from their close working relationship repairs, traceable certification and on-site with Enerpac (the global leader in high application assistance. pressure hydraulic tools) and Norbar, Worlifts new service has emerged Assurance which specifically targets and delivers Following an on-site visit gives on-site solutions for ‘Torque and reassurance to equipment owners and Tensioning Equipment’ used within the users that the tooling will be safe to use renewables sector. by visual inspection, operational tests, pressure tests and calibration if required, Complete bolting workflow utilising the latest on board tool inspection The company’s hydraulic and mechanical and testing equipment. bolting solutions serve the complete bolting workflow, from a pipe alignment to Working together complex joint positioning of large structural Worlifts work very closely with Enerpac assemblies. who specialise in professional high- pressure bolting solutions and work in global markets.

Total on-site package includes: testing, calibration & hire of hydraulic bolting tools, examination & certification of lifting Worlifts equipment, total tool inventory & asset www.worlifts.co.uk management, training for safe & correct use of bolting tools, demonstration of tools Click to view more info for bolting applications.

On-site bolting tool service and Ed’s note: This is an abridged version – support we recommend that you read the full version Worlifts will now be able to offer the wind online through the link/QR Code above Advantages include: correct safe power industry the option of an on-site operation of equipment, reducing risk, bolting tool service designed to reduce down reduction of tooling downtime, reduction time and improve safety and efficiency.

vessel MPI Discovery, takes the guidance Larger turbines call for larger of the monopile to the next level. Replacing the cantilevered hydraulic framework and more capable equipment system which was mounted on the stern Whilst the first generation of Offshore deck before, the new system is formed by WTG’s were considered to be huge two large gripper arms actually mounted at 2MW, and the industry prediction on the transom of the vessel, pinned to in 2003 only spoke of turbine sizes mounting brackets allowing its removal for reaching 3MW, combined with the WTG installation phases, or the transfer to industry estimate of typical water the sister vessel – the MPI Adventure. depths reaching ‘up to’ 25m – the scale in Turbines and Monopiles seems to Specifics currently has no limit. The pair of arms, each weighing 75Te, will be able to guide a monopile with a This is forcing the installation contractors diameter up to 6.5m and a weight of towards constant innovation and design 600 tonnes. However, the operation of larger and more capable equipment. constraints will be maximised to allow Hs 300Te crane in 2005, was installing 470Te of 2.5m (4.6h Max), with a period of 4.9s, Industry monopiles demonstrates the integration of and a sea current acting on the monopile experience secondary systems for gripping, rotating of 2 knots in water depths to 40m. MPI Offshore and guiding does play as an important are no role in foundation installation as size of Click to strangers to the cranes on these types of installation Andrew Duncan view more this – and the vessels. MPI Equipment info testament www.mpi-offshore.com that the Latest monopile gripping system vessel MPI The latest version of the monopile gripping Ed’s note - This is an abridged version – Resolution system MPI Offshore have commissioned, we recommend that you read the full version with her initial and which is currently being installed on the online through the link/QR Code above

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 99 Specialist tools

can be measured with data instantly Finding ‘the sweet spot’ mobile streamed to the ground if required. aerial wind prospecting Many meteorologists worldwide have used Helikites to lift sensors to very high altitudes On the face of it, deciding the position metres extra height may greatly increase on land and sea. Recent published of a wind turbine should be pretty output. Other factors include: upwind research in Germany proved that Helikite obvious. land formation; trees; lakes; escarpments derived data was very consistent with and buildings. At sea, factors such as adjacent Met-Mast data. Just place it on the top of a well known proximity to land, prominent land features, windy hill, a westerly facing cliff, or adjacent river valleys, and wave height Helikites are not normal fair-weather blimps. anywhere in the North Sea. Lots of wind alter wind speed. Just ask any racing For years they have been the preferred blows there. Problem solved. yachtsman. aerostat for both scientists and the military. They utilise both wind and helium to keep Except that it isn’t. We know this Increasingly important, is wind shading them up. Even small models can fly steadily because, it is hard to find any wind farms, from other wind turbines. None of these in winds from 0 to 50mph. anywhere in the world, that produce factors are accurately enough predicted the expected rated power output and by existing computer models working Altitude keeping is also very stable, subsequent financial returns that were from the limited data they get from especially at sea. Uniquely for small promised to the banks and governments meteorologists and the occasional Met aerostats; Met-Helikites can be that funded them. Why is this? Mast. Lidar helps a lot, especially on land successfully flown from walking personnel, where it can be set up quite quickly, but it moving vehicles, small boats or ships. This The difference between success is still an expensive business. At sea, Lidar makes it easy to trail them over hundreds and failure is frighteningly costly and as static as a Met of miles on land or sea whilst they gather It turns out that the power curve of a Mast. enormous amounts of data from whatever modern wind turbine is very steep, which altitude the operator desires. means that the effective profitable wind New development range can be very small. A reduction in Now, a new cheap, easy and highly Advantages wind speed of 1.5 metres/second from a mobile method of wind prospecting has The advantages for wind farm developers forecast mean wind speed of 10 metres/ been developed by Allsopp Helikites Ltd. are obvious. Wind prospecting can occur sec reduces the rated output from 54% It utilises their patented, small high wind over vast areas very rapidly. Met-Helikites to just 30%. This can be the difference capable tethered Helikite aerostats to can accurately sense where the ‘sweet- between profit and loss. carry accurate meteorological sensors up spots’ occur, with the highest wind to turbine height and above. This creates speeds and the lowest turbulence. Considerations an accurate airborne Met-Helikite system. Small differences in turbine positioning Large areas of consistently high winds can make differences to output far greater Wind speed, wind direction, temperature, can be determined which can be used to than 1.5m/sec. On land, just a few humidity, altitude and barometric pressure correctly position large wind farms. Also, small positioning differences can be exploited to enhance the production from a single wind turbine. The amount of data that can be gathered is orders of magnitude greater than any other existing methods - and the cost is minimal.

Costs Financing immense sums of money upon inaccurate estimates can be a thing of the past. Using Met-Helikites, wind farm developers can easily afford to prospect for wind extensively and accurately worldwide. This ensures the most efficient build costs and far greater profitability.

Sandy Allsopp Allsopp Helikites Ltd www.allsopphelikites.com

100 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools

The technology will allow the operator, High performance management with or without Romax support, the ability to monitor turbine health; lowering at Bankend Rig wind farm downtime and operational costs. With the use of the InSight platform, parts, labour Romax Technology’s advanced Reducing maintenance costs and access equipment can be planned predictive maintenance platform, The completion comes only weeks early, perhaps during a low-wind season Romax InSight, has been successfully after the announcement of its predictive or to coincide with the maintenance of installed on the UK wind farm maintenance software and services which other machines. Bankend Rig. offer significant breakthroughs in wind turbine maintenance and actively allow Improving profitability The company was selected to deploy users of the technology including owners, Wilson Renewables Director James their latest innovative technology on the operators and asset managers, to reduce Lowther, said “The InSight suite of wind farm which allows users to monitor maintenance costs whilst minimising predictive maintenance tools offers a warning signs for the early detection of downtime and optimising turbine reliability. way to greatly enhance the management wind turbine failures. of our fleet. The innovative suite of Romax have been responsible for the products and services offers advanced Working together design, build, installation and testing of and intuitive collation of CMS data into a Working alongside Wilson Renewables all parts of the system, including CMS single dashboard allowing us and Romax LLP, Romax have completed the cabinets, sensors and cabling, network to accurately view turbine health.” installation of its InSight suite of predicative infrastructure and all control building maintenance tools successfully on the site hardware. “We have found their team of engineers in South Lanarkshire, UK, as part of a five responsive and friendly, but more year contract to monitor the performance InSight team importantly, they offer an unrivalled of the wind farm’s 11 Siemens 1.3 MW Andy Poon, Director of InSight, said – expertise to allow us to reduce turbine turbines. “This is a fantastic achievement for the downtime and as a result improve our InSight team, we have successfully profitability.” installed and commissioned our system while working in a hostile Scottish winter. Romax Technology The project at Bankend Rig comes www.romaxtech.com at a very exciting phase for us as we work to provide owners and operators Wilson Renewables LLP with the ability to manage their wind www.duedil.com farm reliability across the world. Our technology really is at the forefront of innovation in delivering a mechanism that allows significant cost savings through ensuring predictability of turbine performance via optimised, predictive maintenance scheduling.”

InSight software The leading-edge InSight software allows a combination of data from wind turbine CMS and SCADA to be unified on a single intuitive platform. Hardware independent, this enables the user to collate and easily visualise the health of individual wind turbines and the whole fleet.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 101 Specialist tools

Permanently mobilised for high resolution bathymetric surveys

Continuing their programme of had previously deployed the MBES system The second phase of system upgrades investment and development, from MV FlatHolm on a number of projects onboard the MV FlatHolm will include the Coastline Surveys has successfully including a wreck survey in the Southern addition of a Geometrics 882 Magnetometer completed the first phase of the North Sea where they were able to achieve which will be permanently installed on permanent installation of a full remarkably high quality results in a very short the vessel within a matter of weeks. This bathymetric survey suite on board their space of time due to the flexible frequencies will combine to provide a sensor suite 24m survey vessel, the MV FlatHolm. which can be changed on the fly during that further enhances the versatility of MV survey operations, in a range of water FlatHolm and productivity as a geophysical High-tech state-of-art survey depths. survey platform. equipment The range of high-tech state-of-art survey Integration Successful deployment equipment includes the R2SONIC 2024 Integrating with the SONIC2024, Within days of installation, the new suite of High Resolution Wide Band Multibeam Coastline has also installed the Hydrins survey equipment was successfully deployed Echosounder, an IxBlue Hydrins Inertial high performance Inertial Navigation on a major renewable energy project Navigation System and an Edge Tech System, which delivers highly accurate Coastline has been awarded on the South 4200 Dual Frequency sidescan sonar with real time positions, attitude and velocity Coast. Having completed a programme Discover and SonarWiz software. data in a compact single unit. The system of geotechnical sampling and bathymetric is permanently installed close to the survey this contract will shortly move into Industry recognition approximate centre of gravity of the vessel its third phase and will concentrate on ROV The company has recognised the ever with motion and heading information fed to cable burial survey operations from MV increasing importance of the role multibeam the survey room onboard. FlatHolm in conjunction with Suffolk-based technology is playing within the offshore specialists Innovatum Ltd. construction market and has reacted to Phased upgrades meet that demand with the installation of The final addition in this first phase of Coastline Surveys the highly flexible and reliable SONIC2024 upgrades is the EdgeTech 4200 sidescan www.coastlinesurveys.co.uk multibeam system. The Coastline team sonar system which will be available for rapid deployment from the vessel and can be configured for virtually all survey applications providing high resolution imagery at ranges up to 50% greater than non–CHIRP systems.

102 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk Specialist tools

More complex turbines • Its value is further enhanced through Wind turbines and wind energy projects advanced solver functionality including Energising are becoming increasingly more complex, turbulence transition models, advanced so they must operate dependably at levels contact models, multiphysics The wind unimaginable a few years ago. capabilities, composites tools, high- performance computing and the Installations of very large wind turbines flexibility to connect to third-party industry in offshore and floating configurations software for wind turbine blade are a major technological achievement. manufacturing or aero-elasticity Increased complexities require a Energy companies hope to design, calculations. system-level approach in designing and install, and efficiently and reliably operate • Engineers can perform evaluating wind turbines superstructures whose wind blade spans electromechanical system-level are over 50 metres and subject to wave and analysis, electromagnetic analysis on Wind energy projects around the globe — wind loading at different angles of attack. electric machines and drives, wind power from small installations to very large wind analysis, and stress and modal analysis. farms — have a common goal in reducing History unit energy cost while improving reliability. Historically, wind energy companies have High-level integration and used engineering simulation software as advanced capabilities Business perspective a point solution, used only to simulate By leveraging high-level integration and From a business perspective, technology a specific design aspect or analyse a advanced capabilities engineers over contributes to viability by influencing component. time are extending their once-simplified efficient wind turbine design, manufacture, simulations to include additional details in deployment and operation. Whether the Successful application of ANSYS solutions overall wind turbine design - enabling small application is an onshore, offshore or ranges across the wind energy industry, efficiency gains, important in an industry in far-shore installation, advancements in including…. which a minute efficiency/performance gain science and engineering will contribute to can translate into much larger electricity • Aerodynamic design – thrust coefficient, production, reduced downtime and greater blade structural integrity, ultimate loads project profitability. and fatigue, noise predication, wind gust fluid–structure interaction, bird strike, Greater reliability which icing, boundary layer transition, near- enables better wind energy wake and far-field studies project operation • Structural design – lower and rotor Such details can also improve reliability and structural integrity/safety, power enable better wind energy project operation. conversion efficiency, installation cost Already, there are many exciting examples of and maintenance, offshore transport the expanding use of engineering simulation and installation throughout the wind energy supply chain. • Component design – blades, gearboxes and bearings, generators, nacelles, Additional complexities rotors, drivers, motors, electronics With increased demand for wind energy, cooling engineers will face additional complexities, • Site selection and farm layout – such as even-larger turbine blades that will maximum project potential, power be installed farther offshore and in harsher output (both peak and average), wind environments. loads, fatigue • Turbine placement – variable terrain, Wind farm site selection must continue to roughness, forestry, multiple wake reduce risk and overcome proximity and effects, buildings and setbacks environmental concerns. New powertrains, • Electromechanical system – electrical lighter towers, multi-access turbines, floating machines, variable-speed control platforms and quieter machines will be systems, transformers, power developed. The industry will innovate to electronics, power distribution, sensor meet the challenges of increased safety and actuator design and reliability, improved remote monitoring, • Blade manufacturing reduced system maintenance and regulatory concerns. System - level approach Today’s increased complexities require a Keeping pace system-level approach in designing wind ANSYS is keeping pace by providing high- turbines and evaluating performance based fidelity integrated, advanced capabilities on real-world conditions. that meet single-physics needs as well as system-level and multi-disciplinary Advances in engineering simulation software requirements of the wind energy industry. the industry’s success, especially through increasingly make this possible because: capabilities related to aerodynamic design, Ahmad Haidari material science, structural design, electronic • Modern simulation software is designed ANSYS Inc mechanical control, site selection and farm with capabilities that enable modelling www.ansys.com layout. entire wind turbine systems

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 103 DISTRIBUTED WIND feature sponsor

Distributed Wind Some of our new readers may not have heard the expression ‘Distributed wind’. Julian Martin CEO, ICE Renewables (continuing sponsors of this feature) explains...

“Many of our customers in the ICE Renewables agreement with Moving from strength to agricultural and commercial sectors Norvento strength have high local energy demand whether Our feature sponsors North Yorkshire Establishing itself as one of the leading to operate machinery or refrigeration Distributed Wind specialist company, distributed wind specialists in medium equipment. Distributed wind energy ICE Renewables, secured a head of and megawatt sized wind projects, ICE production allows for energy to be terms contract at All Energy 2013 held Renewables has experienced record produced at the point of consumption in Aberdeen recently to handle the first growth over the past 18 months, with an and allows the producer to directly off nED 100kW turbine across the UK, increase in turnover of over 300%. set local energy requirements and feed with Spanish manufacturer, Norvento. the excess produced back into the This turbine is already receiving strong Based on the Crabtree Hall Business Centre network to be consumed locally. This interest and the company has clients with in Northallerton, the company adds the model is more efficient than centralised submitted planning applications. 100kW nED turbine to its growing portfolio energy production as there is less energy of Distributed Wind solutions. loss across the grid.”

104 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor DISTRIBUTED WIND

Speaking about the contract with Norvento, Reliability and power Expansion ICE Renewables CEO and Chair of availability ICE Renewables is also building presence Renewable UK’s Small and Medium For the consumer, reliability and power in the commercial market and retail Wind Strategy Group, Julian Martin said: availability are two fundamental aspects in sectors and are expanding their sales “Securing this agreement is excellent the decision to purchase a wind turbine. territory to include wider geographical news for ICE Renewables. It ensures that In order to address these, the nED 100 areas. The contract discussions with we are able to offer our clients a leading has been designed with direct drive and Norvento also demonstrate the business’s three blade, 100kW turbine. The nED without hydraulic systems, in order to commitment to offering a comprehensive 100 is ideal for a variety of locations such avoid the use of a gear box, and minimise portfolio of distributed wind solutions and as factories, farms, shopping centres, the possibility of breakdowns. has more than 35 years of experience in tourist and leisure centres, schools, the wind and renewable energy market. colleges and residential areas. This turbine Complete solution complements our existing portfolio and ICE Renewables is a full service renewable ICE Renewables enables us to offer even more solutions to company offering complete wind www.icerenewables.com our customers”. solutions. It is able to offer planning, technical services, operations and Click to view more info Excellent performance maintenance and construction across a Conceived and designed by Spanish range of turbines. manufacturers, Norvento, the nED 100 delivers excellent performance and Established in 2006, the company complies with the same requirements is growing strongly and is one of the demanded for large wind turbines. country’s main providers of distributed medium and megawatt wind turbines Versatility linked to safety with demand for their services coming The exclusive variable pitch and speed from farmers and the rural community, system on the nED 100 make it possible to land agents and landowners as well as reach aerodynamic efficiency in any wind developers and the industrial sector. conditions. This maximises the amount of power outputted by the turbine. The nED 100’s multipole permanent-magnet, synchronous generator and the machinery construction allows a mechanical efficiency close to 100 per cent.

Safety is also paramount with the nED 100. The turbine has a triple brake system and continuous monitoring of vibrations and temperatures.

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 105 DISTRIBUTED WIND feature sponsor Gearless wind turbines working in extreme conditions

With wind turbines operating in extreme Hurricane Sandy – USA Design essential wind regimes such as the Caribbean As a testament to the design and “We initially purchased Northern Power’s and northern Scotland, Northern engineering behind Northern Power NPS 100 because of the high reliability Power Systems today announced turbines, all 74 units in the path of and low sound profile, both a result that its fleet of gearless turbines that Hurricane Sandy when it blasted through of the permanent magnet direct drive experience hurricane-speed winds has in November 2012 were undamaged by generator design. After the NPS 100’s achieved 1 million run time hours, all the high winds. survived Hurricane Irene we purchased a without incident. That is equivalent to third turbine because it was clear that the a cumulative 114 years of continuous, Once conditions returned to normal, NPS 100 lived up to the high standards safe, high-performance operation. each turbine started generating electricity that were advertised,” said Mike McGuire, again. “We knew the machine would Site Manager, Over Yonder Cay. Design and control experience a hurricane eventually, but we Proper design and control are essential for never imagined it would happen the first Hundreds of Northern Power wind a renewable energy system to withstand year,” said Ron Masters, Commissioner of turbines have been installed globally, challenging environmental conditions. Conservation and Waterways for the Town generating clean renewable energy day by Reinforced blades, triple braking system, of Hempstead, NY. “We chose the NPS day while offsetting more than 50,000 tons and a gearless design are the key 100 for its reliability and ruggedness, of CO2. Northern Power is committed to a elements that make Northern Power knowing it would meet the needs of cleaner, greener future. turbines the most reliable small wind the town’s renewable energy education turbines available today. and outreach mission. The turbine’s Northern Power Systems performance to date has exceeded our www.northernpower.com They have safely handled all types of highest expectations.” weather and wind situations from the blustery conditions of Alaska to the windy Extreme conditions – Northern shores of the Maritime Provinces of Scotland Canada. The last week of January 2013 brought severe gales and storm force winds to all History and experience parts of the United Kingdom, with gusts The company’s entire fleet of gearless reaching 85 mph in northern Scotland, yet turbines, with over 2.5 million combined none of the Northern Power turbines in the run hours, has performed with a track UK were damaged. record of zero incidents. These turbines represent the most recent generation of Hurricane Irene – Bahamas proven technology and the company’s On August 24, 2011, Hurricane Irene roots date back almost 40 years having (a category 3 major hurricane) passed successfully deployed hundreds of other through the Bahamas, leaving behind turbines during its long history, achieving a trail of extensive damage resulting over 10 million run time hours. in monetary losses in the Caribbean estimated to be as high as $3.1 billion. The island of Over Yonder Cay took a direct hit, yet despite the strength of the storm that toppled other wind turbines on the island, both Northern Power 100 kW wind turbines were undamaged. The NPS turbines did what they were designed to do: they entered into safe mode after detecting high winds and returned to normal operation the following morning.

106 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor DISTRIBUTED WIND Farm wind not wind farms CLA Game Fair Director, Andrew from its “Farm as Power Station” project new wind Crawford said: “We are delighted which shows the rate of farmers installing Endurance Wind Power is sponsoring renewables has gone up from 5% to 40% turbine can the Renewables Zone at this year’s CLA in the last three years. Game Fair. It is an opportunity for CLA help members and other visitors to benefit In the next five years three in every four from owning and operating small and farmers could be generating renewable revitalise medium-sized wind turbines.” energy, with a significant proportion of this being small and medium scale wind, rural Research shows increasing according to the survey. investment in farm wind economy Nottingham Trent University’s, Forum for Endurance Wind Power the Future and Farmers Weekly held prior www.endurancewindpower.co.uk New 225kW turbine designed to to the CLA Game Fair published findings support British farmers Endurance Wind Power recently confirmed that the X-Series, a new range of 225kW wind turbines, has started production in a UK based facility, helping British farmers generate additional income, insulating the rural economy from rising energy prices, and giving rural areas access to electricity that the grid may not provide.

The new turbine is targeted specifically at farmers who wish to reap a higher financial return and power output than from smaller turbines, but don’t want to install larger towers synonymous with wind farms. Endurance turbines are smaller than standard pylons and less than a third of the height of traditional utility scale turbines.

Engineering experts attend CLA Game Fair The company demonstrated its support for British farmers by sponsoring the Renewables Zone at the Country Land and Business Association Game Fair at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire recently. The company had engineering experts on hand to answer questions on everything from how to install turbines, measure wind speeds and get planning permission. They will also be showcased their latest turbine technology, including a full-size nacelle (turbine head) of their flagship 50kW E-Series turbine.

Generating income Endurance UK Managing Director, Dave Rankin said: “Endurance turbines can generate real income for British farmers at a tough time for crop yields. We look forward to supporting CLA members at the Ragley Game Fair later and demonstrating the healthy returns that can be made from installing our kit, especially our new X-Series model.”

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 107 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT feature sponsor

Narec and the RETA farms. This will be suitable for trenching both away from and towards turbine project brings £2.8 million and substation foundations in seabed conditions representative of planned UK boost for the offshore offshore wind sites. renewables supply chain Ralph Manchester, Chief Trenching Engineer at IHC Engineering Business, RDF supported technology Supporting innovation explains the revolutionary design: innovation programme kicks off Cllr Neil Foster, Deputy Chair of the “The High Traction (Hi-Traq) vehicle The National Renewable Energy Centre North East England Local Management uses patented technology to improve (Narec) has established a £2.8 million Committee (LMC), which engages key manoeuvrability, traction and overall public-private initiative to support SMEs partners in the overseeing of the strategic trenching capability. It has been specifically in the North East of England to move into delivery of the ERDF Programme in the developed to reduce the day to day issues the rapidly developing offshore wind and North East, said: “ERDF investment will facing operators. They have no option marine renewable energy supply chain. ensure businesses receive excellent at the moment but to use technology support to develop innovative new designed and build for the oil and gas The Renewable Energy Technology products; helping SMEs to enter the sector - technology that is not appropriate Accelerator (RETA) project will launch market, or enhance their position within for the offshore wind farm sector.” with three new collaborations, involving the industry. Businesses will have access companies developing innovative to Narec’s world class research facilities Ed’s note – please also see more technologies to reduce the cost of and expertise to develop their ideas and detailed article on this project offshore renewable energy installations. immerse themselves in the emerging elsewhere within this feature supply chain. This will have a positive Building on engineering company impact on the North East economy.” 2. Smart cables for offshore power strengths transmission Tony Ikwue, Innovation and Corporate Innovation projects Tecnalia will work with PDL Solutions and Development Director at Narec, said: The programme will be completed by JDR Cable Systems on the design and “Narec has created this programme to the end of March 2015. Two technology development of smart cable technology. build on the strengths of local engineering innovation projects are already underway Offshore grid infrastructure reliability companies. Initial interest from industry and a third is currently in development. is a key concern for the industry and has been extremely high and the projects this project will focus on improving the selected will see new products being 1. Inter-array cable trencher understanding of cable performance in- developed in the North East. IHC Engineering Business will work with situ, so that installation, operational and Narec on the development of an inter- asset management practices can be “There will also be knock on benefits by array cable trencher for offshore wind evolved to optimise energy production. way of supply contracts and knowledge transfer opportunities for SMEs looking to enter these promising but still relatively immature industries.”

Development and investment Over its lifetime, the project is expected to provide more than 70 regional SMEs with technical and market advisory services to assist them with developing products and services aimed at the offshore renewables industry.

The European Regional Development Fund Competitiveness Programme 2007- 2013, which is managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, is investing £1.39 million in the project. This funding is being matched by Narec along with five industry partners and all work will be undertaken in the North East to engage local companies.

108 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Elisa Ruiz, Project Manager at Tecnalia, said: “The smart cables project is an exciting opportunity for the consortium partners to work together to deliver innovation which has the potential to materially impact the levelised cost of offshore renewable energy”.

James Young, Engineering Director at JDR, added: “We are committed to enabling the next generation of offshore power projects to deliver cost-effective renewable energy, using the latest

developments in cable technology 3. Tidal energy converter nacelle Narec and manufacture. The collaborative intervention system www.narec.co.uk approach being taken by NAREC and This project, currently in development, will the support provided by the ERDF, will enable Atlantis Resources Corporation IHC Engineering Business enable us to accelerate developments in to work with Narec on the development www.engb.com smart cable technology that will benefit of a highly innovative nacelle intervention the industry and the region.” system for their tidal energy turbine. This Tecnalia Paul Charlton, CEO, PDL Solutions, is intended to significantly reduce the www.tecnalia.com said: “This project is an excellent installation and operation costs offshore. opportunity to showcase the specialist Atlantis Resources Corporation skills and expertise located here in Tim Cornelius, Chief Executive Officer www.atlantisresourcescorporation.com North East England; it highlights the of Atlantis Resources, said: “The tidal vital contribution the region is playing in energy industry is at a crucial stage in its JDR the commercialisation and reliability of development and this partnership could www.jdrglobal.com offshore renewable energy technologies. make a material difference in accelerating This is a great opportunity for PDL and the speed of national turbine deployment. Click to view more info the wider supply chain; we are really By reducing installation and intervention pleased to be part of this collaborative costs for offshore devices, we plan to industrial research project.” bring commercial tidal power arrays to the = Click to view video 1 UK in the near future.” = Click to view video 2

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 109 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT feature sponsor

IHC engineering business research & development project for the offshore wind sector

The design of a demonstration vehicle He adds, “It has been specifically RETA project that meets the challenges of cable developed to reduce the day to day The Hi-Traq project forms part of the laying for the development of offshore issues facing operators. They have RETA project, which is part-financed by wind farms is being developed by IHC no option at the moment but to use the European Regional Development Fund Engineering Business. technology designed and built for the oil Programme 2007 to 2013. and gas sector - technology that is not Hi-Traq appropriate for the offshore wind farm The Department for Communities and The Hi-Traq vehicle is backed by a history sector.” Local Government is the managing of innovation. It is the result of investment authority for the European Regional in focused research and development Development strategy Development Fund Programme, which by the company which is based in North A demonstration vehicle applying and is one of the funds established by the East England and part of the global IHC introducing the next generation technology European Commission to help local areas Merwede group. will be launched soon and this is part of stimulate their economic development by the company’s ongoing multi-generation investing in projects which will support Ralph Manchester, Chief Trenching product development strategy. local businesses and create jobs. Engineer at IHC Engineering Business explains the revolutionary design, Ed’s note – Please also see more “The High Traction (Hi-Traq) vehicle detail on the RETA project within our uses patented technology to improve lead article at the beginning of this manoeuvrability, traction and overall Research & Development feature trenching capability.” IHC Engineering Business www.engb.com

110 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk feature sponsor RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Power conversion helps to build the future of wind power efficiency Wind turbine developers will soon have Franz Hubl, Global Business Leader - test is being provided by GE’s consortium open access to a £50 million testing systems, GE Power Conversion, said, partner - MTS Systems Corporation of facility in the UK based on unique and “Narec customers, regardless of where Minneapolis. Its equipment is one of leading-edge technology. The state- they are from, will soon benefit from the largest in the world of its type and of-the-art facility has been specifically this facility and the improvements that it incorporates an unsurpassed hydraulic/ designed for full-scale testing of large will deliver in sustainable wind energy. mechanical system to apply forces to the nacelles. GE’s Power Conversion We are well on the way to completing mechanical assembly of the wind turbine, (NYSE: GE) allows them to develop the installation and will train technical as seen in the real installation, e.g. by wind and build the next generation of wind personnel very shortly. forces at an offshore installation. turbines that will be increasingly efficient, reliable and cost-effective.

Renewable Energy Centre (NAREC) This wind turbine test platform is being built at Narec. It is designed to allow manufacturers to speed up the development time of their systems. In order to achieve this, a tailor-made, 35-meter-high, 3,000-sq.-meter facility to house the test rig was constructed on designs allowing it to be capable of handling the performance, endurance and compressed life testing of complete nacelles.

Direct-drive permanent magnet motor The installation that GE has designed and will commission is comprised of the direct- drive, permanent magnet motor, one of the first of its kind, which will run at up to 30 rpm and with a maximum force of 14.3 million NM (Newton Meter), resulting GE Power Conversion’s 15-megawatt in a power of over 20,000 hp, which is permanent magnet motor equivalent to the driving power of 150 passenger cars.

GE is responsible for the turnkey package “GE also is responsible for supplying on- On-site assembly for the test facility from the grid supply site and remote service and maintenance The 15-megawatt permanent magnet to the motor shaft, including a heavy- as well as developing new equipment motor, serving as the main driver to duty, medium-voltage drive system for future projects. Similar to the LORC emulate the wind speed, with a rating and comprehensive automation and (Lindoe Offshore Renewables Centre) of 20,000 hp, has been developed and visualisation equipment, as well as project, we are excited to take a leading supplied by GE, Rugby, and features overlooking the overall installation with the role in a project that will improve superior dynamics in conjunction with the wind load simulator. tomorrow’s energy technologies.” controls, supplied by GE, Berlin. Due to its mere size with a diameter of 8 meters and Energy Technologies Institute Investment funding an approximate weight of 330 tons, it was (ETI) investment Narec has invested more than £125 million assembled on-site. The pre-fabricated The Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) of U.K. government, private sector and elements are being shipped to the Narec is investing £25m in the Narec facility, European Union funding to create an site and the remaining assembly work through the design, development and unique integrated portfolio of testing and carried out in situ by GE. commissioning of the test rig by GE Power research facilities for renewable energy, Conversion and MTS Systems Corporation. operated on an open-access commercial GE Power Conversion It is a public-private partnership between basis in Blyth, Northumberland, England. www.gepowerconversion.com global energy and engineering companies and the U.K. government to bring together Test facility engineering projects that accelerate the The Narec test facility is the largest development of affordable, secure and independent open-access facility for the sustainable technologies. testing of wind turbine drive trains in the world. The FAS (Force Application System)

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk 111 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT feature sponsor

well as other large, rotating equipment Recently officials from Timken and Stark Timken and for industries including off-shore oil rigs, State College were joined by a number mine trucks, electric shovels (in mining), of community and government leaders, Stark State steel rolling mills, cement vertical mills and including Ohio Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor and College Open hydraulic roll presses. U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, to officially mark the opening of the Technology and Test Cutting-Edge Training facility Centre, located on 15 acres near the The test centre also houses a classroom/ Akron-Canton Airport. Technology and lab for training students in electrical and mechanical engineering as well as Funding Test Centre alternative energy programs including solar Funding for the project combines more than Collaboration between The Timken and wind energy, oil and gas, and fuel cells. $6 million invested by Timken; $2.1 million Company and Stark State College from Ohio’s Third Frontier Commission; and led to development of the new Stark State offers associate degrees, one- a $1.5 million loan from the Ohio Air Quality Technology and Test Centre, the year and short-term certificates in those Development Authority’s Advanced Energy first testing facility of its kind to be energy programmes. Jobs Stimulus Programme. constructed in the Americas. Collaboration and joint Stark State funded the land acquisition, Capability commitment site preparation, building construction The $14 million centre on Stark State “This world-class testing facility and academic furnishings at total cost of College’s North Canton, Ohio, campus will supply knowledge vital for the $3 million, supported by a gift from the tests ultra-large bearing systems that development of mechanical power- Timken Foundation, a private charitable can be up to 13 feet in outside diameter transmission component technologies family foundation. on sophisticated equipment capable of in multiple industries,” said Douglas H. simulating harsh operating conditions Smith, Senior Vice President and Chief Stark State College similar to those found in large multi- Technology Officer for Timken. www.starkstate.edu megawatt wind turbines. “This relationship between Stark State The Timken Company The new test facility is expected to shorten College and The Timken Company marks www.timken.com development cycles and improve the the latest collaboration between our two reliability and cost-effectiveness of these institutions to create advancements in large rotating systems. technology and industry,” said Dr. Para M. Jones, President of Stark State College. Flexibilty “The test centre is also an example of our Testing capabilities within the 18,000 joint commitment to develop education square foot facility have the flexibility to and training capabilities that support focus on wind turbine applications as industry-leading clean energy programs.”

112 www.windenergynetwork.co.uk e-card_print_ads2013.pdf 3 23/07/2013 08:56

The design of a demonstration vehicle www.engb.com that meets the challenges of cable laying for the development of offshore wind farms is being developed by IHC Engineering Business.

Hi-Traq The Hi-Traq vehicle is backed by a history of innovation. It is the result of investment in focused research and development by the company which is based in North East England and part of the global IHC Merwede group.

Ralph Manchester, Chief Trenching Engineer at IHC Engineering Business explains the revolutionary design, “The High Traction (Hi-Traq) vehicle uses patented technology to improve manoeuvrability, traction and overall trenching capability.” C

M He adds, “It has been specifically developed to reduce the day to day Y issues facing operators. They have CM no option at the moment but to use

MY technology designed and built for the oil and gas sector - technology that is not CY appropriate for the offshore wind farm CMY sector.”

K Development strategy A demonstration vehicle applying and introducing the next generation technology will be launched soon and this is part of the company’s ongoing multi-generation product development strategy.

RETA project The Hi-Traq project forms part of the RETA project, which is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Programme 2007 to 2013.

The Department for Communities and Local Government is the managing authority for the European Regional Development Fund Programme, which is one of the funds established by the European Commission to help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support local businesses and create jobs.

Ed’s note – please also see more detail on the RETA project within our lead article at the beginning of this Research & Development feature

IHC Engineering Business

www.windenergynetwork.co.uk ?? a subsidiary company of

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Engineering Procurement Construction T: 0191 295 8700 E: [email protected] W: www.ogn-group.com