SYSTEMS Giving Wind Direction MAGAZINE

WIND SYSTEMS Giving Wind Direction MAGAZINE

SYSTEMS Education & Workforce

EDUC • Company Profile: ATION & WORKFORCE Kalamazoo Valley Community College

• Retooling America’s Workforce for the Wind Energy Industry

» How the U.S. Wind » Wind School Graduates Industry Can Benefit Have a Competitive from the Advancement Edge in the Applicant of Educational and Pool Training Opportunities page 21 page 19 APRIL 2016

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Company Profile: ALSO IN inFOCUS Kalamazoo Valley Community College 18 Retooling America’s Workforce for the Wind Energy Industry Founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, more than 40 years ago, Kalamazoo Valley Community 19 How the U.S. Wind Industry Can College has made a name for itself in the wind Benefit from the Advancement energy industry with its Wind Turbine Technician Academy and the skilled workforce it produces. of Educational and Training Opportunities By Anna Claire Howard

2 APRIL | 2016 BOOTH # 3023 SECTIONS Volume 08 Issue 04 THINK RENEWABLE

DIRECTION ENERGY. THINK

More Than $128 Billion 10 Iron Mountain Agrees To 12 Approximately 140 Dollars Invested in Exchange 30 Percent of Wind Projects Awarded U.S. Economy by New SOUTHWIRE. U.S. Electricity Use with Turbine Contracts in the 8 Wind Power Projects Renewable Energy Second Half of 2015 AWEA MAINTENANCE INNOVATION BOOTH Vaisala Supplies Data to Endurance for Wind UMass Amherst Engineers Developing Multi-Line #1209 Hedge Transaction Anchor System for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines

30 34 MANUFACTURING CROSSWINDS GE Is Building America’s First Offshore Wind Google X Reaches New Heights with Makani Farm Energy Kites SOUTHWIRE MANUFACTURES HIGH-PERFORMANCE CABLES TO MEET YOUR ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENVIRONMENTAL NEEDS IN A VARIETY OF WIND POWER ENERGY APPLICATIONS.

Our customizable solutions help improve costs, reliability and compliance across the renewable energy supply chain. So whether your focus is on powering the turbine motor, transmitting power back to the grid or any wire and cable accessories or support in between, we’ve got you covered. 40 45 A leading manufacturer of wire and cable for over 65 years, Southwire is a single-source solutions provider dedicated to supplying innovative, quality products and world-class service to our customers.

Visit us at www.southwire.com/oem Wind Systems (ISSN 2327-2422) is published monthly by Media Solutions, Inc., 266D Yeager Parkway Pelham, AL 35124. Phone (205) 380-1573 Fax (205) 380-1580 International subscription rates: $72.00 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid at Pelham AL and at additional mailing offices. Printed in the USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wind Systems magazine, P.O. Box 1210 Pelham AL 35124. Publications mail ©2016 Southwire Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved. ®Registered Trademark of Southwire Company, LLC. agreement No. 41395015 return undeliverable Canadian addresses to P.O. Box 503 RPO West Beaver Creek Richmond Hill, ON L4B4R6. Copyright 2006 by Media Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.

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©2016 Southwire Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved. ®Registered Trademark of Southwire Company, LLC. EDITOR’S DESK APRIL 2016 The wind energy industry is constantly evolving and adapting to meet market demands. Like the innovative industry we serve, we also embrace change here at Wind Systems.

You may have noticed that our print and digital magazine have undergone a makeover recently. We’ve enhanced the visual aesthetics of the magazine with a lot of small adjustments that have had a big impact on the magazine’s over- all look, including mini tables of content within each of our five recurring sections — Direction, Construction, Innovation, Maintenance, and Manufac- turing — to give you an idea of what you can expect to read in the remaining pages of that department. We are also in the process of updating our website, www.windsystemsmag.com, to be more captivating and reader-friendly. You can expect that project to be finished by the time most of us are at the AWEA Windpower show in New Orleans from May 23 to May 26. If you’ll be attending this year’s leading industry event, stop by Booth #3013 and let us know what Anna Claire Howard, managing editor you’d like to see more of in the magazine. Also, feel free to call or email me if Wind Systems magazine you’d like to schedule a meeting to discuss editorial opportunities. [email protected] This month’s issue focuses on education and workforce development in the (800) 366-2185, ext. 204 wind energy industry. Like most industries in this economic climate, the United States wind market is facing a shortage of skilled and qualified workers needed to install new wind farms and maintain existing ones. An educated, well-trained workforce is necessary to keep the lights on and drive this industry forward. In the inFOCUS section, we’ve cultivated the perspectives of several industry leaders to present their opinions on the subject and ways this issue can be addressed. Shawn Lamb from the Danish Wind Power Academy Americas dis- cusses ways America’s workforce can be retooled and repurposed to meet the needs of the wind industry. Gordon Moran from the European Energy Centre (EEC) returns this month to propose how the U.S. can benefit from the United Kingdom’s example in advancing educational and training opportunities. We also feature a column by Walter Christmas, a wind energy instructor at Eco- tech Institute in Aurora, Colorado, on how wind school graduates have an edge when it comes to job opportunities, as well as an article by Kristen Graf, the executive director of Women of Wind Energy, on the importance of women in this industry. Additionally, you’ll find a company profile on Kalamazoo Valley Commu- nity College, a leading educational institution in the wind industry, as well as a Q&A with Jared Bezet, the Quality Enhancement Plan director and interim director of Institutional Effectiveness at Everglades University in Boca Raton, Florida. We have also included a list of U.S. educational institutions that offer programs in wind energy. If you would like a school added to this list, email the school’s name and information to [email protected].

As always, thanks for reading!

6 APRIL | 2016 CONTRIBUTORS

Gordon Moran is a Eu- ropean Energy Centre Wilkerson Crane Rental, Inc. is a DBE, WBE, and (EEC) researcher who writes regular articles for SLBE Certified Company in Kansas and Missouri. renewable energy maga- zines internationally. His VISIT FACEBOOK columns cover a wide variety of topics including FOR RECENT JOBS government policy, industry trends, opportunities in the sector, and analysis of the latest technologies. For more information on the EEC, go to www.euenergycentre.org.

Walter Christmas, M.Ed., left public education to work in wind energy. Since then, he has installed and decommissioned met towers, rebuilt hundreds of megawatt-scale generators, and consulted in wind re- source assessment. He is now a part of an experienced and diverse team at Ecotech Institute where he has come full circle back to teaching. For more information, go to www.ecotechinstitute.com.

Kristen Graf is the executive director of Wom- en of Wind Energy (WoWE), a national non- profit advancing women in the renewable energy economy. Before joining to WoWE, she spent five years with the clean en- Wilkerson’s Expertise and technical ergy team of the Union of Concerned Scientists support allows us to offer the highest of (UCS). She has a B.S. in Engineering from Cor- quality in lift planning, job site estimating, nell University. Graf can be reached at kristen@ womenofwindenergy.org for comments or ques- specialized rigging, operated crane rental, tions. For more information about WoWE, go to heavy hauling, and equipment servicing and www.womenofwindenergy.org. repair. Our employees consist of Certified Operators, Qualified Riggers and Signalers, Shawn Lamb is the CEO of U.S. Operations for the and Certified Mechanics and Welders. Danish Wind Power Acad- 11 ton boom trucks to 500 ton all terrain emy Americas in Denver, Colorado. Previously, he hydraulic cranes are available. started the Wind Energy Technology program for Ecotech Institute and has been a wind turbine train- er for Nordex and GE. For more information, go to www.danishwpa.com.

windsystemsmag.com 7

DIRECTION Policy • Advocacy • Business • Finance • Legal • Environment • International

MORE THAN $128 BILLION DOLLARS INVESTED IN U.S. ECONOMY BY NEW WIND POWER PROJECTS

AWEA

Building new wind farms in the U.S. added $13 billion “By building new wind farms across the country per year on average to the American economy over the throughout the past decade, wind companies have invest- past five years, according to information recently released ed $128 billion into the U.S. economy,” said Tom Kier- by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). nan, CEO of AWEA. “Over this time, wind has rapidly

ALSO IN THIS SECTION

10 Iron Mountain Agrees To Exchange 30 Percent 12 EDF Renewable Energy and BlackRock Close on of U.S. Electricity Use with Renewable Energy the Sale of Two Wind Projects in New Mexico

12 Approximately 140 Wind Projects Awarded Turbine Contracts in the Second Half of 2015

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date on the state of the U.S. wind market, including the latest wind industry job numbers, investment figures, state-by-state comparisons, market rankings, and more. Across the country, wind power’s rapid growth contin- ues to attract new investment into state economies. Texas currently leads all states in terms of cumulative project investment with more than $32 billion being injected into its economy. Rounding out the top five states are Califor- AWEA nia at $11.9 billion, Iowa at $11.8 billion, Oklahoma at $9.6 billion, and Illinois at $7.7 billion. The new investment figures made by wind come shortly The recent boom-bust cycle of investment that was caused by repeated expirations of the Production Tax Credit (PTC) and alternative Investment after a new accord that was announced by a bipartisan Tax Credit will now be smoothed out by the tax credits’ long-term exten- group of 17 governors who made the pledge to accelerate sion through the end of the decade, as Congress approved in the budget clean energy growth, including wind power, as a way to package last December. build “a new energy future.” The accord said that creating this new energy path will result in a “more durable scaled-up. Now, there is enough wind power installed and resilient infrastructure and [will] enable economic to reliably produce electricity for more than 19 million growth while protecting the health of our communities American homes. Continuing to invest in world-class and natural resources.” wind resources here at home will help keep our lights on, Wind power costs two-thirds less than it did six years grow state economies, and keep more money in the pock- ago because of American innovation and improved do- ets of homeowners and businesses.” mestic manufacturing, with more than 500 factories Wind energy was the number-one source for new elec- across 43 states building wind turbine parts and mate- tric capacity additions in 2015 with 8,598 MW installed. rials, and those savings are being passed on to U.S. con- That number translates to $14.7 billion dollars in wind sumers. Wind power saved consumers $1 billion over just project investments in one year — a 73-percent increase two days across the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic states over the $8.5 billion invested in new projects in 2014 and during the 2014 Polar Vortex event. a more than seven-fold increase over investments by wind Wind energy in the U.S. produces enough electricity in 2013. for more than 19 million American homes, and Ameri- “The rapid rise of wind energy in the U.S. is clearly can wind power supports 73,000 well-paying jobs across benefiting state economies,” said John Hensley, manager every state, including nearly 20,000 manufacturing jobs. of industry data and analysis for AWEA. “This American By staying on track to supply 20 percent of U.S. elec- success story will continue in 2016 and beyond as there’s tricity by 2030, wind energy could support 380,000 an additional 9.4 GW of wind currently under construc- well-paying jobs, according to the U.S. Department of tion on top of 4.9 GW that are in the advanced stages of Energy. That number could grow to 600,000 by supply- development.” ing 35 percent by 2050. New analysis on wind project investments are featured — Source: AWEA in AWEA’s 2015 U.S. Wind Industry Annual Market For more information, Report. The annual report provides a comprehensive up- go to www.awea.org. IRON MOUNTAIN AGREES TO EXCHANGE 30 PERCENT OF U.S. ELECTRICITY USE WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY

Iron Mountain Incorporated, a stor- purchase of two-thirds of the power The power generated by the Ring- age and information management produced by a new wind farm cur- er Hill turbines will directly provide company, recently announced that rently under construction in Ring- for the energy needs of Iron Moun- it has signed a 15-year wind power er Hill, Pennsylvania, will provide tain’s entire Mid-Atlantic operations purchase agreement (PPA) that will Iron Mountain with long-term rate comprising all or part of 13 states exchange 30 percent of its North stability and an expected annual and Washington, D.C. that current- American electricity footprint with savings of up to $500,000 in utility ly use more than 80,000 MWh of renewable energy. Additionally, the costs. electricity annually. This wind pow- 10 APRIL | 2016 DIRECTION

er purchase will support the energy strategic agenda that uses environ- operational efficiencies and signif- requirements for Iron Mountain’s mental and social metrics to help us icant cost savings. In turn, we can emergent data center business, pro- identify blind spots in our business help our customers to do the same jected to account for as much as 20 where we can innovate. In doing so, when they choose us for their stor- percent of the company’s electricity we are finding new ways of doing age and information management use in North America as the busi- things that drive significant busi- needs.” ness grows. ness value and deliver better results “As the largest operational cost and for our customers, our communities, — Source: Iron Mountain environmental concern, power has an and the environment. This agree- Incorporated incredible impact on our data center ment will deliver bottom-line im- For more information, business,” said Mark Kidd, senior pacts for our business through both go to www.ironmountain.com. vice president and general manager of Iron Mountain Data Centers. “Locking in a long-term, reliable and renewable energy supply ensures price stability, predictability, and superior cost control. The wind power agreement, along with our recent Better Buildings Initiative pledge to reduce energy intensity of 8.75 MW, demonstrates a serious commitment to environmental responsibility. This new agreement better positions Iron Mountain and our customers to meet the growing demand for clean, sustainable power.” The agreement was signed in De- cember 2015 with New Jersey Re- sources, a company that provides natural gas and clean energy services that include transportation, distribution, and asset management. When the wind farm goes online at the end of 2016, Iron Mountain will become one of the top 25 buy- ers of renewable energy among the Fortune 1000 and a top-70 energy buyer in the Environmental Pro- tection Agency (EPA) Green Power Partnership, a voluntary program that encourages the organizational procurement of sustainable power. “This agreement represents an exciting opportunity for us as we continue to advance our sustainability efforts,” said Ty Ondatje, the chief diversity officer and senior vice president of corporate responsibility at Iron Mountain. “Our corporate responsibility journey has seen us evolve from our initial focus on corporate citizenship to a deeper, more windsystemsmag.com 11 DIRECTION

APPROXIMATELY 140 WIND PROJECTS AWARDED TURBINE CONTRACTS IN THE SECOND HALF OF 2015

A new report from Navigant Research titled “Wind Tur- Siemens and Vestas led turbine order vendors in total bine Order Tracker 1Q16” tracks all publicly announced capacity awarded in the second half of 2015, according to wind turbine orders with data segmented by region, the report. Meanwhile, General Electric (GE), Game- country, and vendor between July and December 2015. sa, and MHI Vestas, the offshore wind joint venture be- In the second half of 2015, more than 12 GW of ca- tween Vestas and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, rounded pacity was awarded to wind turbine contracts for global out the top five. wind projects. Europe led all regions with just more than The study provides an analysis of orders placed by re- 5 GW of capacity in orders, while North America had gion, country, and vendor in addition to a breakdown of just under 2.8 GW and the Asia-Pacific region had just the vendor markets of the top countries by capacity. A over 2 GW. detailed examination of turbine components including “Wind turbine orders tracked in the second half of rotor diameter, turbine rating, and specific power is also 2015 show substantial business activity across all top- and provided. The report also offers a comparison of the -on mid-tier turbine vendors,” said Adam Wilson, a research shore and offshore wind markets. Note that this tracker associate with Navigant Research. “The top countries for excludes orders for the Chinese market due to the opaque order volume are in the key markets such as the United state of order reporting in that market. An executive States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, but activity is summary of the report is available to be downloaded for also strong in Brazil and India where turbine vendors are free on Navigant Research’s website. competing for geographic diversification. Notably, one — Source: Navigant Research vendor that was barely on the radar a couple years ago in For more information, India is now showing significant activity in that market.” go to www.navigantresearch.com. EDF RENEWABLE ENERGY AND BLACKROCK CLOSE ON THE SALE OF TWO WIND PROJECTS IN NEW MEXICO

EDF Renewable Energy recent- electricity is committed into the • 2016: 50 percent in Roosevelt ly closed on a transaction to sell a real-time market in the Southwest Wind at 250 MW and Milo Wind 50-percent interest in the 250-MW Power Pool (SPP) Regional Trans- at 49.65 MW, both in New Mexico Roosevelt Wind Project and the mission Organization (RTO). • 2015: 50 percent in Spinning Spur 49.65-MW Milo Wind Project to a “In total, EDF Renewable Energy 3 Wind at 194 MW, Texas Long- fund managed by BlackRock Infra- has committed 50-percent stakes in horn Wind at 200 MW, and Texas structure. The closing of this transac- 894 MW of U.S. wind energy proj- Hereford Wind at 200 MW, all in tion seals the partnership on the final ects to BlackRock since the start of Texas two of five projects for which Black- 2015 along with a 40-percent stake in • 2013: 40 percent in Spearville 3 Rock and EDF Renewable Energy an earlier transaction,” said Raphael Wind at 100.8 MW in Kansas have signed agreements for over the Declercq, vice president of portfolio past year. strategy at EDF Renewable Energy. “The North American renewable The two wind projects are adja- “Those partial sell-downs are an in- infrastructure market presents tre- cently located in Roosevelt Coun- tegral part of our business, and this mendous opportunity for our clients, ty, New Mexico. The combined particular portfolio transaction is a and we are pleased to grow our suc- 150 Vestas wind turbines produce testament to our strong partnership cessful relationship with EDF Re- enough clean, renewable energy to with BlackRock Infrastructure. It newable Energy,” said David Gior- power approximately 170,000 New illustrates our philosophy of building dano, head of the North American Mexico households. Both projects long-term relationships with leading Renewable Infrastructure team at are operational with Roosevelt de- industry counterparties.” BlackRock Infrastructure. “Repeat livering electricity to Southwestern BlackRock Infrastructure has in- business with a trusted partner cre- Public Service Company (SPS), a vested in the following EDF Renew- ates reciprocal efficiencies in our subsidiary of Xcel Energy. Milo able Energy projects: transactions.” 12 APRIL | 2016 DIRECTION

EDF Renewable Energy remains velopers in North America with 7.8 For more information, closely involved in the Roosevelt GW of wind, solar, biomass, and go to www.edf-re.com. and Milo wind projects maintain- biogas projects developed throughout ing a 50-percent ownership stake. the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. EDF Renewable Services, a leading The 250-MW Roosevelt Wind Project in provider of renewable operations — Source: EDF Renewable Energy Roosevelt County, New Mexico and maintenance services in North America, will provide balance-of- plant operations and maintenance for the facility, including 24/7 remote monitoring from its NERC-compli- ant operations control center. BlackRock operates one of the largest renewable power investment platforms in the world with over $1.5 billion of equity assets under management. To date, BlackRock Infra- structure has a total invested portfolio of approximately 1.9 GW of wind and solar projects and $2 billion AUM located across the U.S., Canada, Ire- land, Sweden, France, and the U.K. EDF Renewable Energy is one BlackRock Infrastructure of the largest renewable energy de-

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Profile: Kalamazoo Valley Community College Founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, more than 40 years ago, Kalamazoo Valley Community College has made a name for itself in the wind energy industry with its Wind Turbine Technician Academy and the skilled workforce it produces. By Anna Claire Howard

stablished in 1966, Kalama- of training programs for those look- zoo Valley Community Col- ing to embark on a new career path, lege (KVCC) is a comprehen- including fast-track training acad- Esive, fully accredited public two-year emies that are designed with input college with approximately 13,000 from local employers. One of its most students currently enrolled. It offers outstanding career programs is the certificate programs in more than 20 Wind Turbine Technician Academy, areas of study and associate degrees which was initially launched in 2009 in 25 others. In addition to associ- and has quickly earned a reputation ate degrees and certificate programs as one of the premier training sourc- in business, health care, human and es for wind industry professionals. public service, technical occupations, Other career academies offered at and industry-specific fields, the col- the Groves Center include Mecha- lege also provides a quality experi- tronic Technician Academy and the ence for students preparing to trans- CNC Operator Academy, as well as fer to four-year institutions following customized workforce development graduation. training for area employers. Creating an educated workforce The Wind Turbine Technician skilled to meet the demands of a Academy at KVCC is a compre- changing economy is the focus at the hensive 24-week training program Groves Center on KVCC’s Groves designed to teach students the skills the program, it is recommended that Campus, one of the college’s four necessary to work as wind turbine students not work while they are en- campuses that was originally opened technicians. Upon successful com- rolled in the academy. in 2001 as one of 18 Michigan tech- pletion of the program, students “We are committed to enriching nical education centers (M-TEC) fa- typically enjoy a high placement rate the lives of our students and com- cilities across the state of Michigan. within the wind energy industry. The munities through quality educa- The Groves Center was financed by a program meets from 8:00 a.m. to tional programs and services,” said $5 million grant from the Michigan 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Benjamin Ash, program coordinator Economic Development Corporation During scheduled service trips, stu- for career academics at KVCC. “For in addition to $6 million in matching dents can expect to work 10-12 hours those in the Wind Turbine Tech- funds provided by area companies per day to complete the scheduled nician Academy, we create an en- and foundations. It offers a variety tasks. Due to the rigorous nature of vironment where students learn by 14 APRIL | 2016 KVCC doing. Many times, students’ ques- Additionally, the college has ed- ALSO IN THIS SECTION tions are met with questions from ucational service contracts with two the instructor to help them develop Michigan-based utility companies their own thought process to solve a giving its Wind Turbine Technician 18 Retooling America’s particular problem. As a wind tur- Academy sole responsibility for five Workforce for the Wind bine technician, the student will utility-grade turbines in the state of Energy Industry face new challenges every day. More Michigan. Students can expect to than likely, there won’t be a ‘cook- spend at least two weeks working in 19 How the U.S. Wind Industry ie-cutter’ solution to all of the issues the field on these turbines. Can Benefit from the they’ll encounter in the field, so our KVCC’s wind training program Advancement of Educational instructors try to guide the students differs from many others like it in the and Training Opportunities to their own solution.” U.S. in that it is competency-based windsystemsmag.com 15 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

KVCC KVCC rather than credit-based, meaning imum, spending approximately 85 can also spend time on utility-grade that students must demonstrate percent of their time in the laborato- turbines by completing regularly with 100-percent proficiency that ry or in the field. scheduled maintenance and service they can complete the tasks neces- However, in order for this type of requests. sary to be a wind turbine techni- training to be successful, class siz- According to Ash, graduates of cian. These competencies are prov- es must remain small. According to KVCC’s Wind Turbine Technician en by hands-on demonstrations Ash, KVCC only accepts a maxi- Academy typically take positions as completed in the presence of one of mum of 12 students into the academy wind turbine technicians either on a the instructors. each session, allowing it to maintain wind farm or as a traveling techni- “Not only do students have to com- an ideal student-to-instructor ratio. cian for virtually every major OEM plete the hands-on demonstration, “We currently have two full- and service and maintenance pro- they also have to be able to describe time instructors and one part-time vider in the U.S. wind industry. The what they are doing and why they are instructor, all of whom have been majority of the academy’s graduates doing it,” Ash said. “They must also through our program and have have moved to the Washington and be able to answer any questions from worked in the wind industry and Oregon areas and to North and the instructor. Many of the compe- worked their way into leadership South Dakota, while a handful of tencies build on one another, and if roles within their respective com- others have taken positions in Okla- an instructor feels that a student is panies before deciding to come back homa, Nebraska, and Illinois. no longer competent in a particular and teach for KVCC,” Ash said. KVCC’s Wind Turbine Tech- task, they may strip the student of Beyond the traditional classroom nician Academy costs a total of that competency until they are able setting, students in the Wind Tur- $14,000, which includes all safety to demonstrate it correctly.” bine Technician Academy have the gear, tools, books, and laptop com- Learning the skills necessary to opportunity to work in the college’s puters to use while they are enrolled be successful as a wind turbine tech- electronics lab and its training lab, in the academy. The academy also nician requires hours of hands-on which contains two 300-kW tur- covers the lodging costs of the stu- practice. So, as a general rule, KVCC bine nacelles. In addition to the lab dents while on the off-campus ser- aims to keep the class time to a min- work completed on campus, students vice trips. Students enrolled in the

16 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

program may be eligible for Feder- recorded throughout the course and for wind turbine engineering through al Financial Aid, Veteran Educa- will be reported to potential employ- the BZEE. tion Benefits, Kalamazoo Promise, ers if requested. The class schedule “Employers appreciate the fact that Michigan Works, and private grants also falls in line with a full-time work the students from KVCC’s Wind or scholarships. schedule.” Turbine Technician Academy com- According to Ash, there are sever- Additionally, students enrolled in plete the ENSA GWO training,” al key factors that set KVCC’s grad- the academy must complete ENSA Ash said. “They also like the fact uates apart from the pool of wind GWO BST training series, which in- that students are gaining experience technicians entering the workforce, cludes working at heights, First Aid, on real components and actual field the first of which being that the col- fire prevention, and manual han- experience all within the 24-week lege expects its students to treat the dling. All work-at-heights training is training period. academy like a job from the start completed on the college’s 100-foot KVCC runs two academies per of the application process through climbing tower. year; one typically starts during the graduation. KVCC’s wind program has earned first week in January, and the other “We require students to apply with both the American Wind Energy typically starts the first week in July. an application similar to a job appli- Association (AWEA) seal of ap- Applications are accepted year-round. cation, provide contact references, proval and certification by the Bil- Anyone who is interested in learning and conduct an interview,” Ash said. dungszentrum für Erneuerbare En- more about KVCC’s Wind Turbine “Once the student is accepted into ergien (BZEE) Renewable Energy Technician Academy should contact the program, they are accountable Education Center. Upon successful Ash directly at [email protected] or for tardiness and missing class. If a completion of a series of written and (269) 353-1560. student does not call and does not practical tests, as well as completion show up for class, they may be asked of the field service, students receive For more information, to leave the program. Attendance is certification as a service technician go to www.kvcc.edu/wind. Take Control. Remote control padding operation made easy with our SPD-150.

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windsystemsmag.com 17 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

RETOOLING AMERICA’S WORKFORCE FOR THE WIND ENERGY INDUSTRY By Shawn Lamb

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Sta- tistics, the wind turbine technician profession — and opportunities for employment therein — is expected to increase by 108 percent over the next 10 years. This pro- jection is much higher than the other occupations clas- sified under the category of installation, maintenance, and repair, which is expected to grow by only 6 percent throughout the same time frame. This statistic indicates that U.S. wind energy generation is a growing industry with approximately 8.6 GW of newly installed capacity over the past year, as well as the tens of thousands of pre- I met with one such technician while I was training viously installed turbines that will need to be operated wind techs at the Panther Creek Wind Farm in Big and maintained well into the next couple decades. How- Spring, Texas. I asked John Sherrod, an employee of ever, the question remains — where will these workers E.ON Climate and Renewables North America, how he come from? felt the skills from his career in oil and gas carried over As I have discussed in previous articles, there is a com- to wind. ing shortfall of wind workers in this industry, as well as a “The skills I learned while troubleshooting the pumping requirement for these workers to be properly trained and units, PLCs [programmable logic controllers], and SCADA qualified in order to perform maintenance work on the systems in oil and gas were very close to what I do while wind turbines. Additionally, there is potential for work- troubleshooting wind turbines,” Sherrod said. ers from industries that are similar to the wind energy Sherrod spent 14 years in the oil and gas industry, first as industry to transition into being wind technicians. There a pumper, and then as a well technician who worked with are two U.S. industries that have seen a recent downturn controllers and PLCs. and may have trained workers who are currently seeking “I made the transition from oil and gas to wind energy other employment options. The first is the mining indus- because I saw the layoffs coming, and I wanted to further try. With the low prices of mining commodities, many my career in control systems and PLCs,” Sherrod said. mining companies are downsizing their workforce to As an educator in this industry, Sherrod was one of the stay in business. Mining involves many skills that can be students I trained through the Danish Wind Power Acad- transferable to the wind industry, including instrumenta- emy Americas when he started working at E.ON. When tion, data analytics, heavy machinery maintenance, and asked how difficult it was to transition from the theory and troubleshooting hydraulics and electronic systems. schematics found in a classroom to troubleshooting in the The other pool of potential workers could come from field, Sherrod said, “When I first started with E.ON, I the oil and gas industry. The price manipulation of oil didn’t know anything about wind. The class helped me un- overseas coupled with the boom in fracking technology derstand how the turbine works, and once I started working in the U.S. has created a glut on oil and gas worldwide. on the turbines with more experienced technicians, I could As a consequence, many experienced professionals in understand the terminology and what they were saying.” that industry find themselves without work. Before join- The retooling and repurposing of technicians from in- ing Ecotech Institute as the director of career develop- dustries outside of wind energy can take many forms. Some ment, Natasha Maier spent a decade in the oil and gas may only need to be shown the schematics, while others industry as a human resources consultant. Now, she finds may require a long-term training plan to fully understand jobs and placement for graduates of the school’s Wind how wind power plants operate. From my 20-plus years Turbine Technology program. of teaching and training adult students, I can honestly say “Having previously worked in the oil and gas industry, that there is no specific one path that’s best for transitioning I have seen a lot of the technical and safety skills transfer these technicians. However, finding workers with the right into the wind industry,” Maier said. “With some addi- attitude and some heavy-industry experience is a great start tional training, these oil and gas technicians can become for addressing the labor shortage and having qualified tech- proficient wind technicians.” nicians working on the towers.

18 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

HOW THE U.S. WIND INDUSTRY CAN BENEFIT FROM THE ADVANCEMENT OF EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES By Gordon Moran

There is a broad range of professions that make up the cades, and many are installing large numbers of tur- workforce needed to drive the wind energy industry bines and providing training programs and degrees at forward, including jobs in the manufacturing of wind educational institutions that equip the workforce with turbines, engineering, and a range of support roles the skills necessary to meet the current and future relating to daily operations, including marketing and needs of the industry. A similar trend has developed community liaison work. A wide variety of training in the U.S. where there are several manufacturing is required for all of these different roles, from initial bases and states with a large number of turbines be- background qualifications that may include a specific ing installed. Educational support has also developed college degree or certification to conversion courses for quickly in wind-rich states like Texas, where there is someone coming into the sector from another disci- a growing need for a trained workforce to meet the pline, as well as ongoing training for staff throughout needs of the industry. their careers. According to the American Wind Energy Associa- The wind industries in the United States and Europe tion (AWEA), more than 80,000 Americans are em- both require a highly skilled workforce for their con- ployed in the wind industry and related fields. While tinuing development and expansion. Some European the development of the wind energy industry is on countries have wind turbine manufacturing industries the rise in the U.S., the skills gap risks putting that that they have built up and developed over several de- growth in jeopardy if there is a shortage of skilled

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windsystemsmag.com 19 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

The wind industries in the United States and Europe both require a highly skilled workforce for their continuing development and expansion.

workers who are readily available to meet the industry’s often participate in an internship or cooperative pro- needs. This, combined with an aging workforce, means gram as part of their undergraduate studies. that an enhanced education pipeline will be crucial to This flexible and broad range of avenues for appli- ensure that there are well-trained, qualified workers to cants to become suitably trained is helping ensure that sustain the industry. sufficient numbers of qualified personnel are available One way these needs could be addressed is by looking to work in the global wind energy industry. It has also at how European countries have developed educational resulted in a virtuous circle of initial educational invest- opportunities to support the wind sector and applying ment by the public sector, which has led to companies similar principles to the U.S. wind market. The United investing in the educational development of their work- Kingdom can provide relevant insights that may prove force. Siemens, for example, built a wind power training helpful to the American wind industry. center in Newcastle Upon Tyne — a university city on The U.K. is currently facing a decrease in the number the River Tyne in northeast England — and a global of available, qualified engineers and technicians that center for offshore grid connections in Manchester. The are required to sustain and advance the industry. The company is also sponsoring research in renewables at government addressed this shortage with an increased various U.K. universities and is currently constructing investment in apprenticeships and a flexible range of a manufacturing plant in Hull to support the offshore training options available for new applicants who are wind industry. entering the industry. Companies are also investing Some countries in Europe have established wind tur- heavily in on-the-job training for their existing staff to bine manufacturing industries that require skilled tech- build on and increase their skillsets. For example, wind nicians and a great deal of careful planning to develop turbine technicians are one of the primary groups in the the supply chains, infrastructure, and training facilities wind industry and are responsible for ensuring turbine necessary to sustain the industry. While the U.K. does equipment operates efficiently. Organizations such as not have a history of technological advancements that are the European Energy Centre (EEC) offer a variety of required to develop an indigenous manufacturing base, curricula for those looking to pursue careers as wind collaborations with private companies may result in the technicians. The EEC is an accredited center and offers development of such a system. An established policy re- qualification courses, such as the Wind Power course, gime, commitments from government, and known pro- where individuals learn how to install, maintain, and jections for construction have led to the development of a repair wind turbines. Additionally, courses like Mod- training infrastructure and the facilities that can ensure ern Apprenticeships in Wind Turbine Operation and the long-term viability of the industry. For example, the Maintenance as well as Wind Turbine Installation and U.K. offers training facilities that were developed by pri- Commissioning are also available in the U.K. This range vate companies in addition to apprenticeship schemes, of courses combined with relevant hands-on experience university degrees, and extensive in-employment train- yields a workforce that is equipped with a broad range ing to provide the workforce that the industry requires. of qualifications and can ensure a large enough work- Further investment in more comprehensive training force is available. facilities in the U.S. will lead to positive mutual rein- More highly technical, specialized roles are also re- forcement with initial public sector-led educational in- quired for a range of engineering fields across the investments, which will lead to further internal investment dustry, including aerospace, civil, electrical, electronics, by companies in the development of their wind work- environmental, industrial, materials, and mechanical. force. An undergraduate engineering degree is typically a pre- requisite for this type of employment, along with rele- To learn more about renewable energy and energy vant work experience. These qualifications are available efficiency through training courses, visit at a range of universities across the U.K., and students www.EUenergycentre.org

20 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

WIND SCHOOL GRADUATES HAVE A COMPETITIVE EDGE IN THE APPLICANT POOL By Walter Christmas

As a wind energy instructor at Eco- siasts that they are coming into the their career. For example, as an in- tech Institute, I’m envious of my stu- program and turn them into highly structor, I aim to train my students dents. They are at an exciting place in professional technicians with a deep to smoothly see and follow a path their careers, and the wind energy in- scientific understanding of turbine to their second promotion. If I have dustry is exploding with opportunity systems and the wide range of appli- only helped them get their foot in the worldwide right before their eyes. cable skills that employers need. door, then I have failed them. The technology uptower is changing Since July 2010, we have learned A wind energy instructor must be so rapidly that employers are coming what kind of knowledge and skills able to trust that his or her students straight to schools like Ecotech In- our industry needs, and we enjoy will go out and make a positive im- stitute in Aurora, Colorado, to hire evolving as a response to the wealth pact on our industry. The instructor as many of our students as they can. of input provided by site managers, must also trust them to take safety After two years of hard work and safety managers, graduates working seriously, to continuously learn more personal sacrifice, more than 90 per- in the turbines, and other industry about turbine reliability, and to recent of Ecotech Institute graduates partners who take a personal level spect the need for our employers’ will go into high-paying jobs in the of responsibility in molding our pro- profitability. wind energy industry. Most of them gram to reach new heights. At Ecotech Institute, we trust will start off in challenging and ex- So what is it, specifically, that sep- that our relationships with industry citing positions as wind turbine tech- arates wind school graduates from experts will net fruitful advice to us nicians — the first step in building job applicants who are trying to move as technology advances. We culti- a career in an industry that has seen into wind energy from other techni- vate these relationships to make sure phenomenal growth and a diverse cal fields? In a word — trust. they see the benefit in helping us stay range of career paths that continue to A wind energy student must be on the cutting edge of wind turbine grow and evolve. able to trust his or her instructors to training. As an instructor, my charge is to guide them to the point of not only Wind industry partners trust wind take them from the slightly naive yet being attractive to employers, but energy instructors to effectively train motivated renewable energy enthu- also being successful throughout and mold their future employees to

Ecotech Institute

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be the technicians that are needed program and they have been hired, the background of the instructors. on their wind farms. As students it is the employer’s responsibility to While the majority of these educa- approach graduation, they transition train them on the site’s specific tur- tors’ experiences are from uptower into being an asset offered to the job bine platforms. Most importantly, maintenance and troubleshooting, market. At Ecotech Institute, we employers are trusted to provide the experience outside of the typical often get positive feedback in this equipment and continued training turbine technician realm is crucial. regard as our students have multiple needed to keep graduates safe. Otherwise, graduates risk suffering job offers from which to choose. There have been quite a few train- from tunnel vision and a general lack We as instructors trust industry ing programs popping up around the of how our industry works outside of partners to take on the responsi- nation that train entry-level tech- those two key areas. bility of continuously training the nicians to get their foot in the door Wind technicians with tunnel vi- students that they hire. We pro- with their first job. However, pre- sion often experience early burn out. vide our industry partners with paring students for successful careers Without a larger understanding of technicians who have succeeded in in the wind energy industry with a our industry, climbing turbines can learning the physics, mechanics, wide range of options is not about seem like just a job rather than the electrical, hydraulics, schematics, stocking an impressive inventory right step in a promising career. If and control logic of a wind tur- of large components. It is crucial to college program directors wish to bine. Graduates are also proficient have a faculty that is diverse in their serve the long-term needs of their with Microsoft Office applications wind energy experience so they can students and the industry, they must and can learn proprietary SCADA offer students the chance to a wide hire faculty who bring this level of software quickly and efficiently as spectrum of career opportunities. diversity and provide opportunities they have used SCADA simulators When prospective students are for instructors to gain additional in the classroom. After the gradu- researching colleges for wind ener- industry training that they can then ates have completed their training gy careers, they should inquire on pass on to their students. Again, I am envious of my students. The opportunities laid out before our future wind energy technicians are unlike any the industry has seen before. We trust that this growth will continue simply because market pressures support this be- lief. As long as wind energy remains cheaper than the fluctuating costs of coal and natural gas, as long as there is a possibility of a carbon tax loom- ing on America’s energy future, and as long as data continue to support the ever-strengthening understanding of the link between carbon di- oxide and global climate change, the landscape will continue to remain wide open for wind energy to gain more of the diversified energy portfolio of our nation and world. This is not a trust based on assumptions. This is a trust based on fact and careful analysis. It is this trust that keeps wind energy technology instructors motivated to train ambitious people who are committed to a better world and can build rewarding careers in our industry.

22 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

THE IMPORTANCE OF ENCOURAGING WOMEN TO PURSUE CAREERS IN WIND ENERGY AT AN EARLY AGE By Kristen Graf

The United States Department of Energy’s Wind Vision of experienced mentors who can help prepare them for Report suggests that we as a nation can achieve 20-per- careers in the renewable energy workforce. cent wind-generated energy by 2030 and 35 percent by Women of Wind Energy (WoWE) was founded 2050. This estimated economic growth has the potential around the Rudd Mayer Fellowship, a program that to create 600,000 additional jobs by 2050, which will re- brings female students and recent graduates to the Amer- quire a trained and qualified workforce. Children who ican Wind Energy Association’s (AWEA) annual Wind- are currently in elementary school will be in their 40s by power conference where they can gain the knowledge and 2050, bringing those projected numbers to reality as they contacts to successfully break into the field and thrive. become members of the U.S. workforce. Now is the time This year, in collaboration with the Wind Energy to look toward the pipeline of potential wind workers Foundation and the American Wind Energy Associa- that will be necessary to meet that coming need. tion, WoWE has added a new effort called the Wind at Our Backs Scholarship that also brings young women to THE K-12 PIPELINE Generation STEM, a 2012 report from the research arm of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, suggests that there are a variety of factors that can encourage young women to pursue an education and a future career in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Some of these factors include meeting role models who are involved in renewable energy and a STEM career, going to science and technology museums, and doing hands-on science activities at home at a young age. Programs such as KidWind offer teacher trainings, curricula, and student design challenges to kids at a young age. Also, Wind for Schools is a program that helps schools get their own wind turbines on-site, cre- Women of Wind Energy ating pathways that bring wind energy to the classroom. THE HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING PIPELINE I recently had the opportunity to speak on the Women WHAT YOU CAN DO AS INDUSTRY in Sustainability panel at the annual Society of Women LEADERS: Engineers conference. The room was packed — stand- • Mentor or volunteer with a local school pro- ing room only — and students made up the majority of gram or with collegiate teams where women those in attendance. After the panel concluded, the lines and minority mentors serve as role models. to ask questions stretched across the room, and I heard • Offer to have a student shadow you for a day the same story over and over again. These students were to learn more about potential career paths. studying engineering and wanted to work in renewables • Donate to or sponsor fellowship and schol- and sustainability, but they weren’t sure where or how to arship programs for women and minorities. get connected to career opportunities. Regardless of the • Support and connect with affinity networks field of choice in college or vocational training programs, and groups like WoWE and the Society of it is critical to begin making the connections to potential Women Engineers that create communi- career paths, and part of that responsibility falls on the ty-oriented and educational opportunities to industry. help retain and encourage women working Programs like the Collegiate Wind Competition allow toward careers in STEM and renewables. students to work in cross-disciplinary teams and work together on challenging problems, often with the help

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the Windpower show and includes an additional $2,500 formal (i.e., graduate programs, certifications, etc.) and in- to be used toward tuition specifically for women in wind formal (i.e., WoWE Webinars and mentoring program) technician training programs. opportunities for continuing education are an important part of retaining women who have made it through from THE LEADERSHIP PIPELINE the earlier pipeline stages. While some of these efforts are The final stage of the pipeline is one of ongoing retention, for the individual member of the workforce, others can be growth, and professional development. Whether tran- focused on creating a culture across the wind energy in- sitioning from another field, changing areas within the dustry that is standing ready and excited for all the new sector, or steadily growing into new roles and capabilities, ideas that a diverse workforce will bring. WIND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE U.S. Alphabetized by State

ARIZONA Ecotech Institute ILLINOIS Eastern Illinois University Coconino Community College Colorado Illinois Career Danville Area Community University Arizona College Community College Associate Undergraduate coursework www.ecotechinstitute.com Illinois and minor Associate Community College www.coconino.edu (877) 326-5576 www.eiu.edu Associate (217) 581-5000 (800) 350-7122 www.dacc.edu Redstone College (217) 443-3222 Northern Arizona University Colorado DeVry College University Career Illinois (main campus) Associate Heartland Community College Bachelor’s Arizona Illinois Bachelor’s www.redstone.edu www.devry.edu (877) 801-1025 Community College (866) 338-7934 www.nau.edu Associate (928) 523-9011 www.heartland.edu Lamar Community College (309) 268-8860 Elgin Community College Colorado Illinois CALIFORNIA Community College Community College Airstreams Renewables Inc. Associate Highland Community College Certificate California www.lamarcc.edu Illinois www.elgin.edu Career (719) 336-2248 Community College (847) 697-1000 Certificate Certificate; Associate www.air-streams.com www.highland.edu (661) 822-3963 DELAWARE (815) 235-6121 INDIANA University of Delaware Ivy Tech Community Santa Clara University Delaware Illinois Valley Community College California Graduate College Indiana University www.del.edu Illinois Community College Master’s (302) 831-2841 Community College Certificate; Associate www.scu.edu Certificate (Basic, Advanced) www.ivytech.edu (888) 489-5463 (408) 554-4000 FLORIDA www.ivcc.edu (815) 224-2720 Everglades University Purdue University College of the Desert Florida Lake Land College Indiana California University Illinois University Community College Bachelor’s; Master’s Community College Bachelor’s Certificate www.evergladesuniversity.edu Certificate; Associate www.purdue.edu www.collegeofthedesert.edu (888) 854-8308 (760) 346-8041 www.lakeland.cc.il.us (765) 494-4600 (217) 234-5253 University of Miami Indiana University COLORADO Florida Northern Illinois University Indiana University Colorado State University Illinois University Master’s Colorado University Bachelor’s www.miami.edu University Certificate; Graduate www.engr.iupui.edu (305) 284-2211 Master’s; Doctorate www.niu.edu (317) 274-2533 www.colostate.edu (815) 753-1000 (970) 491-6444 IDAHO University of Notre Dame College of Southern Idaho Sauk Valley Community Indiana Northeastern Junior College Idaho College University Colorado Community College Illinois Graduate; Minor Community College Certificate; Associate Community College www.nd.edu Associate www.agriculture.csi.edu/wind Certificate (574) 631-5000 www.njc.edu (208) 732-6403 www.svcc.edu (800) 626-4637 (815) 288-5511

24 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

IOWA Certificate; Associate MISSOURI NEW YORK Des Moines Area Community www.nmcc.edu Crowder College Clinton Community College (207) 768-2700 College Missouri New York Iowa Community College Community College Community College MASSACHUSETTS Certificate; Associate Associate Associate University of Massachusetts- www.crowder.edu www.clinton.edu www.windenergy.dmacc.edu (417) 451-3223 (518) 562-4200 (877) 863-6222 Amherst/Wind Energy Center Massachusetts University Pinnacle Career Institute Hudon Valley Community Missouri Iowa Lakes Community College MS; Research College Iowa Career New York www.umass.edu/windenergy Community College Short course; Certificate; Community College (413) 545-4359 Diploma; Associate Associate (Online) Certificate www.iowalakes.edu www.pcitraining.edu www.hvcc.edu (800) 521-5054 Western New England University (877) 241-3097 (877) 325-4822 Massachussettes University Kirkwood Community College Undergraduate (Concentration) MONTANA Hudson Valley Community Iowa www.wne.edu College Community College Montana State University New York (800) 325-1122 Montana Associate Community College University www.kirkwood.edu Certificate Certificate; Doctoral; Master’s (319) 887-3658 MICHIGAN www.hvcc.edu www.montana.edu (518) 629-4822 Delta College (406) 994-0211 Northeast Iowa Community Michigan College Community College Excelsior College Iowa Associate Montana Tech New York Montana Community College www.delta.edu University University Diploma; Associate (989) 686-9000 Bachelor’s Certificate; Associate www.nicc.edu www.excelsior.edu www.mtech.edu (800) 728-2256 (888) 647-2388 Kalamazoo Valley Community (800) 445-8324 College Vatterott College Michigan NORTH CAROLINA Iowa Community College NEBRASKA Community College Certificate Appalachian State University Northeast Community North Carolina Certificate www.grovescenter.kvcc.edu College University www.vatterott.edu (269) 353-1253 Nebraska MS; Undergraduate minor (888) 202-2636 Community College www.wind.appstate.edu Diploma; Associate Saginaw Valley State University (828) 262-7333 Western Iowa Tech Community Michigan www.northeast.edu College University (800) 348-9033 Iowa Undergraduate minor Central Piedmont Community Community College www.svsu.edu College Western Nebraska North Carolina Associate (989) 964-4000 Community College Community College www.witcc.edu Nebraska Associate; Certificate; Diploma (800) 352-4649 Community College Grand Rapids Community College www.cpcc.edu Certificate Michigan (704) 330-2722 Iowa State University Community College www.wncc.net Iowa Certificate (308) 254-5450 University www.cmsold.grcc.edu NORTH DAKOTA Doctorate; Undergraduate minor; Research (616) 234-4722 Southeast Community College Bismarck State College www.engineering.iastate.edu Nebraska North Dakota (515) 294-5933 Lansing Community College Community College Community College Michigan Associate (AAS) Certificate; Associate Iowa Western Community College Community College www.southeast.edu www.energy.bismarckstate.edu Iowa Associate (402) 761-2131 (800) 852-5685 Community College www.lcc.edu Associate; Certificate (800) 644-4522 Lake Region State College www.iwcc.edu NEW MEXICO North Dakota (800) 432-5852 MINNESOTA Clovis Community College Community College New Mexico Certificate; Associate Minnesota West Community and KANSAS Community College www.lrsc.edu Technical College Certificate; Associate (701) 662-1519 Cloud County Community College Minnesota www.clovis.edu Kansas Community College (575) 769-4904 Community College Associate OHIO Certificate; Associate www.mnwest.edu Mesalands Community Lorain County Community www.cloud.edu (800) 658-2330 College College (800) 729-5101 New Mexico Ohio Riverland Community College Community College Community College MAINE Minnesota Certificate; Associate Certificate; Associate Community College www.lorainccc.edu Northern Maine www.mesalands.edu Diploma (575) 461-4413 (800) 995-5222 Community College www.riverland.edu Maine (800) 247-5039 Community College

windsystemsmag.com 25 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

Ohio State University MPS (Online) Texas Tech University/National www.cua.edu Ohio www.wind.psu.edu Wind Institute (202) 319-5000 University (814) 865-2569 Texas Associate University WEST VIRGINIA www.osu.edu SOUTH CAROLINA Certificate; Bachelor’s; Doctorate (614) 292-6446 www.depts.ttu.edu/nwi Eastern West Virginia Community Clemson University (806) 742-3476 and Technical College South Carolina West Virginia Stark State College University Community College Ohio Certificate West Texas A&M University Certificate; Associate Career Texas www.clemson.edu www.easternwv.edu Certificate University (864) 656-3311 (877) 982-2322 www.starkstate.edu Certificate; Bachelor’s (330) 494-6170 www.wtamu.edu SOUTH DAKOTA (806) 651-0000 WISCONSIN University of Dayton Mitchell Technical Institute Lakeshore Technical College Ohio South Dakota MIAT College of Technology Wisconsin University Community College Texas Community College Master’s Associate Career Associate www.udayton.edu www.mitchelltech.edu Certificate www.gotoltc.edu (937) 229-1000 (800) 684-1969 www.miat.edu (888) 468-6582 (888) 547-7047 OKLAHOMA TEXAS Madison Area Technical College Houston Community College Wisconsin Canadian Valley Technology Amarillo College Texas Community College Texas Center Community College Certificate Oklahoma Community College Certificate www.madisoncollege.edu Career Certificate (Basic, Advanced); Associate www.hccs.edu (800) 322-6282 Certificate www.actx.edu/wind (713) 718-2000 www.cvtech.edu (806) 371-5000 (405) 262-2629 Northeast Wisconsin Technical Howard College College Clarendon College Texas Wisconsin Texas High Plains Technology Center Community College Community College Oklahoma Community College Certificate Associate Career Certificate (Level I, Level II); Associate www.howardcollege.edu www.nwtc.edu Certificate www.clarendoncollege.edu (432) 264-5061 (800) 422-6982 www.hptc.edu (800) 687-9737 (580) 571-6167 VIRGINIA Herzing University South Plains College Wisconsin Texas Oklahoma State University – Dabney S. Lancaster Community University Community College Oklahoma City College Certificate Oklahoma Associate Virginia www.herzing.edu University www.southplainscollege.edu Community College (800) 596-0724 Certificate; Associate (806) 894-9611 Certificate www.osuokc.edu/wind www.dslcc.edu (800) 560-4099 Texas A&M University (540) 863-2800 WYOMING Texas Casper College University of Oklahoma University University of Virginia Wyoming Oklahoma Certificate; Master’s Virginia Community College University www.tamu.edu University Certificate; Associate Associate; Certificate (979) 458-1644 Graduate www.caspercollege.edu www.osuokc.edu www.virginia.edu (800) 422-2963 (405) 947-4421 Texas Christian University (434) 924-0311 Texas Laramie County Community OREGON University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and College Bachelor’s; Master’s State University Wyoming Columbia Gorge www.tcu.edu Virginia Community College Community College (817) 257-7000 Undergraduate Associate Oregon www.vt.edu www.lccc.wy.edu Community College (540) 231-6000 (800) 522-2993 Certificate; Associate Texas State Technical College www.cgcc.cc.or.us (Harlingen) (541) 506-6011 Texas WASHINGTON Community College Certificate (I, II); Associate Walla Walla Community College Washington Clackamas Community www.tstc.edu/harlingenwindtech Community College College (800) 852-8784 Oregon Associate If you would like an Community College www.wwcc.edu educational institution Associate; Certificate Texas State Technical College (509) 522-2500 www.clackamas.edu (West Texas) added to this list, email (503) 594-6000 Texas Community College WASHINGTON, D.C. the school’s name and Certificate (I, II); Associate The Catholic University of information to editor@ PENNSYLVANIA www.tstc.edu/westtexaswet America Penn State (325) 235-7300 Washington, D.C. windsystemsmag.com. Pennsylvania University University Bachelor’s

26 APRIL | 2016 GENERATION WIND Energy’s new era This is Generation Wind—the people, the technology, and the vision that will shape the future of the power sector. In May 2016, Generation Wind will be on full display at the Next Generation WINDPOWER. Attend WINDPOWER 2016 to experience the cutting edge expertise, new developments and technology innovations that are transforming your industry and propelling it competitively into the future. Generate solutions. Generate business. Generate actionable ideas that will fuel your success in wind power’s CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION opportunity-rich new era. REGISTER TODAY. May 23 - 26, 2016 | New Orleans, LA For more information, visit: www.windpowerexpo.org

Untitled-1 1 11/5/2015 12:55:28 PM inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE CONVERSATION

Jared Bezet (888) 854-8308 Quality Enhancement Plan Director and www.evergladesuniversity.edu Interim Director of Institutional Effectiveness /EvergladesUniversity Everglades University Everglades University

gionally accredited by the Southern for a productive career in the alterna- Association of Colleges and Schools tive and renewable energy industry as Commission on Colleges in 2010. managers. Emphasis is placed on alter- Continuing its commitment to offer- native energy principles, regulations, ing innovative and forward-thinking and business and management opera- programs, Everglades University re- tions with a broad-based knowledge of sponded to the growing need for alter- the sustainable energies industry built native energies and capable graduates on a foundation of general education educated in managing those newly requirements as well as business and developing energy sources by build- management applications. ing on the success of its construction management program and offering What is the university’s mis- the Bachelor of Science Degree with sion to its students who are a major in Alternative and Renewable pursuing degrees related to Energy Management in 2011. This the wind energy industry? program contains many courses fo- Everglades University’s mission is to cused on a wide variety of alternative provide quality education to adult Please give us some back- energy sources, including hydrogen, learners of diverse backgrounds in ground on the university, propane and natural gas, solar energy a collaborative environment where including when it was found- and photovoltaics, nuclear energy, hy- each individual has the opportuni- ed and how it moved into the droelectric, biomass, geothermal, and, ty to achieve personal growth. The wind energy sector. of course, wind energy. university seeks to accomplish this Everglades University was originally by combining small class sizes and founded as American Flyers College Tell us about the undergrad- innovative programs with tradition- in 1997. In 2000, the institution be- uate curriculum in alterna- al academic values. The university gan offering bachelor’s degrees with tive and renewable energy supports the academic endeavor and majors in business administration, management. service to deliver graduate and under- information technology, applied man- Everglades University’s bachelor’s de- graduate programs both on campus agement, aviation management, and gree with a major in alternative and and online. professional aviation. In 2003, Ever- renewable energy management fo- The Bachelor of Science in Alter- glades College began to offer master’s cuses on the management skills and native and Renewable Energy Man- degrees and changed its name to Ev- business knowledge required for the agement displays Everglades Uni- erglades University. To better serve continually changing environment versity’s commitment to innovative the community, Everglades University of the energy industry. The degree programs by providing a foundation began offering the Bachelor of Science provides instruction in management in general education as well as a solid Degree with a major in Construction skills and specific technical and occu- background in business and manage- Management in 2005 and was re- pational subjects, preparing graduates ment courses. 28 APRIL | 2016 inFOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

Employment opportunities are endless for the graduate and include positions within a wide range of industries in both the private and public sectors.

What is the instructional phi- Students are also welcome to vis- What sets graduates from losophy behind Everglades it Everglades University’s Sarasota Everglades University apart University’s focus in wind? campus, which features a number from other wind energy pro- Everglades University aims to proof energy-saving devices, including fessionals in the field? vide educational opportunities to the a wind turbine and a variety of so- Everglades University’s Bachelor of career-minded individual and offer lar technologies, on and around the Science Degree in Alternative and an education that will produce an campus thanks in part to funding Renewable Energy Management employable and skilled graduate. The from Florida Power and Light (FPL). provides more than just technical university’s philosophy is that learn- Students are encouraged to use these training on limited tasks in the wind ing takes place in a variety of ways, resources to research the efficiency energy sector. The degree delivers a so it privileges flexibility, individu- and reliability of different technolo- broad survey of a variety of sustain- alization, and previous knowledge gies, exposing them to careers in re- able and renewable alternative ener- and skills. Because of the growing newable energy. gy models and focuses on providing market share of alternative energies, Everglades University recently the business acumen and manageri- Everglades University’s Bachelor of entered a partnership with Pearson al skills that graduates will need to Science in Alternative and Renew- Learning and the U.S. Green Build- advance in their careers and make a able Energy Management program ing Council (USGBC) to become a difference in the world. Everglades provides graduates the opportunities USGBC education partner, by which University not only prepares gradu- they need to become professionals in the university will include courses ates to get jobs, but it also encour- their chosen fields and play a critical that provide students opportunities ages them to become managers and role in the future economic growth for pathways to LEED (Leadership leaders in their chosen fields. and competitiveness of our society. in Energy and Environmental De- Everglades University’s commit- By including wind energy as part sign) certifications. ment to a personalized education of the curriculum of its alternative results in an innovative scheduling and renewable energy management Tell us about the career system designed to be more con- program, the university leverages its opportunities available to venient for working professionals. view that instruction is a dynamic students in the wind energy Students take one course at a time process that develops both the skill industry after graduation. so they can focus on fulfilling the and the intellect of career-minded Graduates of Everglades Univer- learning objectives of each class be- individuals interested in working in sity Bachelor of Science Degree in fore moving on to the next. Each this burgeoning field. Alternative and Renewable Energy class is personalized with com- Management are prepared for an prehensive knowledge delivered What kinds of opportunities entry-level career in a wide range of throughout the four weeks, allow- can students take advantage renewable and sustainable industries ing students to complete the entire of beyond traditional class- including wind energy. Graduates bachelor’s degree program in less room instruction at Ever- may be interested in the role as proj- than four years. All of Everglades glades University? ect managers for the construction University’s degree programs can Students in the Alternative and Re- of wind energy projects from small- be taken 100-percent online with newable Energy degree program are scale residential and commercial to no residency requirement. All Ev- welcome to network with the uni- large-scale industrial sites. Employ- erglades University students have versity’s Program Advisory Com- ment opportunities are endless for access to its extensive library re- mittee, which comprises local indus- the graduate and include positions sources and databases online at any try professionals who actively work within a wide range of industries in hour of the day or night and any day in the field. both the private and public sectors. of the year. windsystemsmag.com 29

MAINTENANCE Operations • Service & Repair • Inspection • Safety • Equipment • Condition Monitoring • Lubrication

VAISALA SUPPLIES DATA TO ENDURANCE FOR WIND HEDGE TRANSACTION

Vaisala, a global leader in environmental and industri- transaction with Meridian Energy Australia, a leading al measurement, is providing the long-term wind mea- Australian electricity supplier. The contract provides -fi surement data required by Endurance Specialty Hold- nancial protection against the risk of low annual earnings ings Ltd., a provider of property and casualty insurance from price and volume variability at Meridian’s Mount and reinsurance, to complete a multi-year wind hedging Millar wind farm in South Australia.

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32 Wind Prospect and Nabla Wind Power Service Launched To Extend Wind Farm Project Life

30 APRIL | 2016

Securing a power purchase agree- quires access to reliable long-term tageous terms for debt and equity ment (PPA) at a reasonable price is climate analysis. With an indus- while potentially allowing develop- becoming a greater challenge for try-leading approach using advanced ers to allocate their equity across a wind projects around the world. In weather models to predict wind greater diversity of projects. There some markets, this is due to the rap- power production over long-term is also a benefit to the counterpar- id growth of wind power and fierce climatological windows, Vaisala was ties to power purchase agreements competition driving down PPA selected by Endurance to report and in passing the financial risk of vol- prices. In others, it is the result of quality-control data for the Wind- umetric uncertainty to weather-di- reduced or disappearing subsidies Lock transaction with Meridian. verse third parties like Endurance creating extremely thin margins “This transaction is noteworthy Global Weather.” for wind projects. Regardless of the given the site-specific settlement According to Pascal Storck, Vais- cause, more wind projects are now data provided by Vaisala and the ala’s global manager of energy ser- operating on a merchant basis and relatively long contract duration,” vices, Vaisala is “excited to play such using wind hedging contracts to said Martin Malinow, Endurance a key role in this ground-breaking better weather the ups and downs of Global Weather’s president. “En- transaction. By providing accurate volatile spot markets. durance Global Weather has a suc- wind measurements at Mount Mil- Through its customized Wind- cessful track record of pioneering lar, where there is no public weather Lock product, Endurance Glob- tailored solutions for its global client station at the relevant hub height, al Weather offers this type of risk base and was delighted to work with [Vaisala is] able to reduce potential protection for companies needing Meridian to execute this WindLock basis risk for Meridian.” to manage the wind variability of transaction. We know from working operating assets as well as assets in with our wind clients that effec- — Source: Vaisala development. However, pricing and tive risk management can facilitate For more information, structuring these transactions re- project finance by securing advan- go to www.vaisala.com.

Leading edge business intelligence

The BladeEdge software portal transforms raw data from aerial inspections into actionable intelligence, improving wind farm safety and efficiency, ultimately extending infrastructure lifespan. Visit BladeEdge.net or Booth #2719 at Windpower

windsystemsmag.com 31 MAINTENANCE

WIND PROSPECT AND NABLA WIND POWER SERVICE LAUNCHED TO EXTEND WIND FARM PROJECT LIFE

In response to the changing re- and commercialization, Wind Pros- “This raises an interesting ques- newable energy market in the U.K. pect’s multi-disciplinary teams have tion about what owners and op- and the move toward significantly unsurpassed practical experience erators need to do to extend the reduced and zero subsidies for on- and are renowned for providing the lifespan of their project,” Speht shore wind projects, Wind Prospect, detailed technical advice that helps said. “We can answer this question a leading independent consultancy, clients to deliver projects,” said Rob- and help our clients take the next has developed a package of measures ert Speht, Wind Prospect’s advisory step from a high level review of to extend the typical 20-year life ex- services general manager. “We have each project to the practical steps pectancy for a wind project. Wind harnessed these skills to introduce of implementing the engineering Prospect will work in collaboration a series of measures to advise and solutions. Furthermore, by extend- with Nabla Wind Power, an inde- support those in the market who are ing the project design life cycle, we pendent wind engineering service currently reviewing their assets and could see the levelized cost of elec- provider that specializes in predict- looking for ways in which to maxi- tricity being brought down signifi- ing site-specific component life, and mize their investment.” cantly. In the U.K., where the gov- a wind farm certification body to ac- According to Speht, Wind Pros- ernment has withdrawn subsidies, credit the service. pect believes that where wind proj- this is incredibly valuable.” “With more than 20 years’ exper- ects have traditionally been based on As part of the launch of this tise in all aspects of wind, offshore a standard 20-year lifespan, existing new service, Wind Prospect and wind, and solar farm design, per- and future projects now need to be Nabla Wind Power have compiled mitting, construction, operation, engineered for a 40-year lifespan. a free guide that can be downloaded from Wind Prospect’s website. The guide sets out the benefits of extending a wind farm design life and how to make it feasible. It provides invaluable advice on permitting, land rights, wind turbine OEM, components, balance of plant, O&M strategy, siting inspection strategies, grids, power purchase agreements, tariffs, and certifications. “The combination of our skills will bring to owners and operators the best information to support BACHELOR decision-making by identifying Alternative and Renewable Energy the optimal financial life exten- Environmental Policy sion potential for our clients’ as- Land and Energy sets, how to achieve it, and the Alternative Medicine SCAN HERE plan for making it possible, leading to the protection and maximi- MASTER zation of the asset value of your Public Health Administration wind farm,” said Ruben Ruiz de LEARN MORE – Concentration in Complementary Gordejuela, CTO of Nabla Wind and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Additional degree programs offered. Power. Boca Raton | Orlando | Sarasota | Tampa | Online — Source: Wind Prospect For more information, 888.854.8308 go to www.windprospect.com.

32 APRIL | 2016 Drawing Every Day at 11 a.m. GIVEAWAY

Attending WINDPOWER 2016 from May 23 to May 26 in Giving Wind Direction New Orleans? Stop by the Wind Systems magazine booth (#3013) to register to win a Snap-On Toolbox. Drawings will be held at the booth on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 11:00 a.m. SYSTEMS BE SURE TO REGISTER EARLY!

INNOVATION Research & Development • Design & Engineering • Forecasting & Analysis Consultancy • Certification & Standards • Efficiency • Emerging Technologies

UMASS AMHERST ENGINEERS DEVELOPING MULTI-LINE ANCHOR SYSTEM FOR FLOATING OFFSHORE WIND TURBINES

A team of researchers that includes two engineers from the University of Mas- sachusetts (UMass) Amherst is developing a new mooring system for floating offshore wind turbines that uses an integrated network of anchors and lines to hold dozens or even hundreds of turbines in place in the ocean in industrial-scale, offshore wind farms. Civil and environmental engineers Sanjay R. Arwade and Don J. De- Groot from UMass Amherst, along with Charles P. Aubeny from Texas

A&M University and Melissa Landon University of Maine of the University of Maine, are con- ducting the research with a three-year, The University of Maine-led New England $497,341 grant from the National Sci- This industrial collaboration is par- Aqua Ventus I is one example of an opera- ence Foundation (NSF). The funding ticularly important to the success of tional offshore floating wind project. comes jointly from the NSF’s Grant the project since Vryhof can assist Opportunities for Academic Liaison Arwade and DeGroot with assess- wind turbines are moored using a with Industry (GOALI) and geotech- ments of the complex installation, networked series of anchors and ca- nical engineering programs. staging, and cost-estimating aspects bles that hold the entire wind farm The research team is working with of the project. Vryhof will also help in place. Currently, each floating Vryhof Anchors, an international in- guide the research in directions that wind turbine has its own individu- dustrial partner that is a world leader in will be directly applicable to the al anchoring system. The proposed producing offshore anchoring systems, needs of the wind industry. networked system would save money including the one used by the world’s The principal goal of the research and require fewer anchors and geo- first floating offshore wind turbine in is to develop offshore floating wind technical site investigations, accord- Norway. farms where the individual floating ing to the researchers.

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36 Sentient Science Chosen for Computational 38 Adwen’s AD 5-135 First Turbine To Obtain DNV Gearbox Testing of 8-MW Offshore Wind Turbine GL Type Certificate

37 Levenmouth Turbine Offers Unrivalled Opportunity for Renewable Energy R&D

34 APRIL | 2016

In order to accomplish this goal, the Casey Fontana / University of researchers will have to evaluate the Massachusetts Amherst feasibility and design implications of highly variable soil conditions on the ocean floor for securing the anchors, the layout of the wind farms, and the complicated dynamics that cause loads on the anchors. The scientists will also develop wind and wave models for the best placement and orientation of the wind farms. “This project is an exciting opportunity to bring together structural dynamics and geotechnical engineering in new ways to support national renewable energy goals by potentially lowering cap- are challenging, nonlinear, dynamic tially reducing the cost of building ital costs associated with offshore wind issues that force this research to work offshore wind farms by a significant development,” Arwade said. at the cutting edge of geotechnical margin. The team is also looking at the best engineering and offshore structur- designs for the mooring lines and al engineering,” Arwade said. “For — Source: University of the connections between the floating that reason, it also provides a perfect Massachusetts Amherst wind turbine and the anchors, accord- opportunity to educate the next gen- ing to Arwade. They will also develop eration of researchers in the area of For more information, three-dimensional models for measur- offshore wind energy and supports a go to www.umass.edu. ing the behavior of the anchors on the doctoral student toward that end.” seafloor and the best designs for the It is expected that this project may multiple cables attached to each anchor. hasten progress toward the goal of “At each level — at the floating generating 20 percent of U.S. ener- structure and at the anchor — there gy needs from wind power by poten-

Casey Fontana / University of Massachusetts Amherst

BOOTH # 3219

Casey Fontana / University of Massachusetts Amherst

windsystemsmag.com 35 INNOVATION

SENTIENT SCIENCE CHOSEN FOR COMPUTATIONAL GEARBOX TESTING OF 8-MW OFFSHORE WIND TURBINE

Sentient Science recently announced gy production (AEP) on the market en 8-MW platform’s drivetrain de- that it has signed an agreement with with the highest nominal torque sign and standards. Adwen, a leading offshore wind drivetrain and largest rotor. “Confidence in 20- to 30-year ro- turbine manufacturer, to validate Under the terms of the agreement, tating equipment life is our crucial the drivetrain for its next genera- Sentient Science’s DigitalClone objective,” said Ward Thomas, CEO tion3.25 turbine of 8-MW-rated x power,5.75 computational testingWS software will and president of Sentient Science. which has the largest annual ener- be used to further validate the Adw- “The world’s largest equipment operators, gearbox and bearing manu- facturers, and lubrication suppliers are turning to Sentient to confirm that their products will lower the May 3-5, 2016 cost of energy by 1 cent per kWh on Connecticut Convention Center | Hartford, CT land and 5 cents per kWh offshore. Sentient is proud to help confirm and validate the system under de- Where Manufacturing Ideas and Inspirations Intersect sign and to make sure that Adwen has the world’s most tested drivetrain before our friends at Fraun- hofer begin their physical testing.” aerospace defense The , DigitalClone is designed to pro- and medical device industries have much in common; stringent vide an exhaustive and comprehen- regulations, mission-critical quality sive validation strategy in which control and a need for advanced thousands of gearbox validation test manufacturing technologies. points are computationally created Attend Mfg4 to: within weeks for a fraction of the • Explore the technologies cost of physical testing. This allows • Compare competitive products massive amounts of testing points • Find inspiration and insights to be evaluated before physical testing begins. Mfg4 is the definitive event for “A front-end to our physical test- cross-industry collaboration ing process with the newest com- and innovation! putational test technology matches with our rigorous test and validation process, always with the final aim of increasing the reliability of the turbine,” said Maite Basurto, CTO of Adwen. “Using Sentient’s Register for free today at mfg4event.com DigitalClone is a first step in our Use PROMO CODE WS online or bring this ad to Mfg4. extensive validation program. It will contribute to having a faster certification process and, finally, a more reliable turbine available in serial production in 2018.” The United States National Re- part of the official media sponsor medical manufacturing newable Energy Lab (NREL) and Department of Energy (DoE) has

innovations series invested more than $25 million in DigitalClone to make it as accurate

36 APRIL | 2016 COMPANYB EVENT NAME® is produced by SME 10544_ADT_CTE_PS_IP_WS_MDB_GS.indd 5 2/3/16 10:52 AM INNOVATION

ROTOR BLADE SERVICES Blade Repair & Maintenance End of Warranty Inspection 3rd Party Quality Assurance Patented Rotor Balancing Sentient Science Focus on Owner/Operators

as physical testing. Today, one in every 10 land-based wind turbines are contracted to use DigitalClone for life prediction and life extension and 30-year risk and failure analysis. — Source: Sentient Science For more information, go to www.sentientscience.com.

LEVENMOUTH TURBINE OFFERS 519.524.6226 UNRIVALLED OPPORTUNITY FOR completewind.com RENEWABLE ENERGY R&D Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) The Levenmouth Demonstration Catapult recently unveiled its 7-MW Turbine was acquired by ORE Cata- demonstration offshore wind turbine pult from Samsung Heavy Industries in Levenmouth, Scotland, under- in December 2015 and is the world’s lining the vital role that the United most advanced open-access offshore Kingdom plays in research, technol- wind turbine dedicated to research. ogy, and skills development at the It offers complementary opportuni- heart of the global renewable energy ties for economic growth, training, industry. and the development of skills that

ORE Catapult / Matthew Kelly

windsystemsmag.com 37 INNOVATION

are vital for the future of the offshore wind industry. The turbine offers an unrivalled opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of a wide range of technologies as well as the operations and maintenance aspects of offshore wind turbines with the ul- timate goal of reducing the cost of energy. ORE Catapult is working closely with key academic and industry stakeholders to align the research program of the Levenmouth Demonstration Turbine with industry priorities to drive down the costs associated with offshore wind energy development. ORE Catapult ORE Catapult is also working Fergus Ewing MSP accessing an offshore wind turbine through next-generation virtual reality tech- with local partners, including Fife nology developed by Heriot Watt University in association with Energy Skills Partnership. Council, Fife College, Levenmouth Academy, Skills Development Scotland, and the Energy Skills to the industry to help it develop for Wind and Marine Energy Sys- Partnership, to develop and deliver our offshore wind resources.” tems, the Levenmouth turbine is educational and training programs “The Levenmouth Demonstra- a game-changer for the U.K. aca- that will both support local young tion Turbine will play a major part demic community. adults to move on to higher educa- in the development of future tech- “Until now, we’ve lagged behind tion and develop a unique curric- nologies to lower the cost of off- other European nations in not hav- ulum to ensure that training pro- shore wind,” said Andrew Jamieson, ing open access to a full-scale tur- grams deliver employment-focused, chief executive of ORE Catapult. bine that can be used to back up in-demand skills to local people. “It offers opportunities for the U.K. new research outputs and technol- “Scotland’s research and develop- supply chain and technology de- ogies,” Leithead said. “Access to the ment in renewables is unrivalled and velopments, and it is vital that the Levenmouth Demonstration Tur- the Levenmouth Demonstration turbine also plays a role in locally bine will make it possible to posi- Turbine adds to Scotland’s exten- developing and supporting the next tion the Scottish and a wider U.K. sive portfolio of test facilities,” said generation of Scottish engineers, academic research community right Fergus Ewing, the Scottish govern- who will ensure that Fife enjoys a at the heart of European wind re- ment minister for business, energy, bright future thanks to renewable search, funding opportunities, and and tourism. “ORE Catapult will energy.” technology development.” work with the offshore wind sector, According to William Leithead, Skills Development Scotland, and the chair of the EPSRC Super- — Source: ORE Catapult the Energy Skills Partnership to gen Wind Hub and director of the For more information, ensure the knowledge is transferred EPSRC Doctoral Training Centre go to ore.catapult.org.uk. ADWEN’S AD 5-135 FIRST TURBINE TO OBTAIN DNV GL TYPE CERTIFICATE

Adwen’s AD 5-135 turbine has obtained the first type for Onshore Wind Turbines, Edition 2010” and to cover certificate based on the “Guideline for the Certification IEC 61400, parts 1 and 3. of Offshore Wind Turbines, Edition 2012” issued by The new guideline contains a type certification process DNV GL. This new guideline updates the previous ver- specifically developed for offshore wind turbines. It takes sion from 2005 to fully comply with the GL’s “Guideline into account the important increase on the average size

38 APRIL | 2016 INNOVATION

of turbines experienced from 2005 GL-Energy. “As the development tions for load, mechanical engineer- as well as the use of advanced, in- of modern offshore wind turbines ing, and safety engineering.” telligent control systems to mitigate is rapidly progressing, the guideline loads. Furthermore, the machinery GL 2012 is taking all the latest safety — Source: Adwen and electrical design requirements and reliability requirements into ac- For more information, are improved to be state-of-the-art. count, including updated qualifica- go to www.adwenoffshore.com. The AD 5-135 is an evolution of the AD 5-116 that was first certified in March 2015 according to this guideline and has been updated to cope with the specific configuration required for Wikinger offshore wind farm, Iberdrola’s 350-MW project in the Baltic Sea. Among the new features are the 25-year operating lifetime and the grid loss system — a new system that allows energy production for self-consumption in case of temporary loss of grid connection. “We are pleased to issue the first type certificate according to GL 2012 to Adwen for their AD 5-135 turbine,” said Mike Wöbbeking, head Adwen of the certification body at DNV

TO OUR MEMBERS, VOLUNTEERS AND CORPORATE SPONSORS THANK YOU!

Our 2015 successes were WoWE 2015 Rudd Mayer Fellows WoWE Lunch and Q&A with Andrea Jung made possible by you! (Back L-R) Rachel Weber, Kathryn Perlman, Just before WINDPOWER 2015 WoWE partnered Malika Grayson, Heather Sauder, Elena Nansen with GE to host a special lunch with Andrea Jung, (Front) Rachael Fabiny CEO of Grameen America, former CEO of Avon, and member of the GE Board of Directors

Your company can be part of this great effort! Email [email protected] for more information.

windsystemsmag.com 39

MANUFACTURING Production • Fabrication • Components • Supply Chain • Materials • Tooling • Machinery

GE IS BUILDING AMERICA’S FIRST OFFSHORE WIND FARM

New wind farms added more than a over an area large enough to fit nearly people. Besides the Haliades, it also quarter of total new power generation two Airbus A380 double-decker pas- manufactures turbine nacelles — the capacity in the United States between senger jets. casings that shelter the power genera- 2010 and 2014, reaching 75,000 MW The Saint-Nazaire factory opened tion equipment on top of the tower — at the end of last year. With the ex- in 2014 and currently employs 170 and generators. ception of China, no other country has more. However, despite America’s abun- dance of coastline, its wind farms spin exclusively on shore. But that’s about the change. America’s largest wind turbine manufacturer, General Elec- tric (GE), just finished the installation of the platforms that will support the first offshore wind farm in the United States. The wind farm, built by Deep- water Wind and located 3 miles off the coast of Block Island, Rhode Island, is scheduled to come online at the end of 2016 and generate 125,000 MWh of electricity. That’s enough to meet 90 percent of Block Island’s power needs. GE Renewable Energy GE recently celebrated the mile- stone at a plant in the Port of Prov- An offshore wind farm with a Haliade wind turbine in the North Sea. idence in Rhode Island where it will assemble the towers for the wind turbines. Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, Deepwater CEO Jeffrey Grybowski, and Anders Soe-Jensen, CEO of GE Renewable Energy’s Off- shore Wind Activity, were present. But a lot of the action is already taking place on the other side of the Atlantic. The wind farm will use five huge Haliade wind turbines, which GE acquired with Alstom last fall and manufactures inside a new plant at the mouth of the Loire River in Saint-Nazaire, France. Each Hali- ade can generate 6 MW, enough to power 5,000 American homes and save 21,000 tons of CO2 during the GE Renewable Energy turbine’s life cycle. The turbine has a 150-meter diameter rotor that sweeps Parts of a Haliade rotor are heading out to sea in Europe. 40 APRIL | 2016

The first Haliade produced by GE recently left the factory for Denmark where it will be installed on the Os- terild site operated by the utility EDF Énergies Nouvelles (EDF EN). The utility will use 238 GE offshore wind turbines for its three French wind fields in Saint-Nazaire, Courseulles- sur-Mer, and Fécamp. Workers in Saint-Nazaire will also make the five Haliades for the Block Island wind farm in the U.S., as well as 66 Haliades for Merkur Offshore, a large offshore wind project in Ger- GE Renewable Energy many. GE is also offering wind farm op- The Haliade generator at GE’s factory in erators access to the GE Store, which a great example. As part of this proj- Saint-Nazaire, France. allows the company to quickly share ect, GE recently installed a pair of knowledge, technology, and innova- advanced transformers manufactured power flowing even if one transform- tion across its businesses. Deepwater in Mönchengladbach, Germany, for er goes off-line. Wind, for example, is pursuing bat- use in the onshore substation. Each — Source: GE Reports tery storage from Current, a startup transformer, equipped with a tap powered by GE, for its proposed 90- changer, allows the operators to lev- For more information, MW, 15-turbine Deepwater ONE – el out voltage fluctuations and keep go to www.gereports.com. South Fork project for Long Island, New York. The battery solution will stabilize the grid and maximize utili- zation of the energy provided by the offshore wind turbines. MAEDC AREA Batteries solve one of the key chal- Moberly-edc.com 660.263.8811 lenges currently facing renewable area::edc energy producers. It allows them to Amazing Transportation Access store excess power generated when BEST Regulatory it’s windy and release it during peak Air: Local Airports Environment demand.

“This solution will help the South Truck: Interstate 70 US v MAEDC Fork meet its energy needs in an af- Average Wage US: $22 fordable and sustainable way,” said Port: Via Missouri River Pratima Rangarajan, general manager MAEDC: $14 of storage for Current. Rail: Multi Rail Access Power transmission from the sea on Broadband + 4G economic @ shore presents another hurdle. That’s Our region is located near competitiveness where GE’s Energy Connections the center of the population of the US called the Missouri is ranked 7th by the American business comes in. Connecting off- Legislative population mean. Making Exchange Council shore wind farms to the grid requires distribution centralized. BEST the installation of an offshore electri- Seattle Thousands of cal substation. The unit’s high voltage Skilled Laborers NewYork Chicago Philadelphia

Indianapolis direct current (HVDC) lines can effi- Kansas City Los Angeles Phoenix San Diego Memphis State and Local ciently transmit power over long dis- Dallas Incentives tances of 50 km or more. San Antonio Houston $ The 900-MW DolWin3 HVDC project in the German North Sea is windsystemsmag.com 41

CONSTRUCTION BOP/EPC • Project Status • Siting • Equipment • Project Due Diligence • Services

XCEL ENERGY BOOSTS EASTERN PANHANDLE POWER GRID

Xcel Energy completed a major help sustain industrial development The company energized a new high-voltage transmission project in and will position the regional econo- 115-kilovolt, 38-mile transmission Gray and Wheeler counties in the my for continued growth as electrici- line between the Bowers Substation eastern Texas Panhandle that will ty demand increases. near Lefors in Gray County and the

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44 BLM Issues Environmental Assessment for Phase I Wind Turbine Development for CCSM Project

42 APRIL | 2016

Howard Substation in the city of Wheeler in Wheeler “We’re pleased to be partners with regional industries as County. The $39 million project also includes significant we make a lasting contribution to job opportunities and upgrades at both the Bowers and Howard substations to economic development for decades to come.” accommodate the new line. Since July 2014, Xcel Energy has invested $1 billion in “The demands on the transmission network have new power lines, substations, and upgrading power-gen- grown over the past decade with increased oil and gas erating facilities across its Texas-New Mexico service drilling and the ensuing growth in industries that add area. Through 2020, that number is expected to exceed value to these raw materials,” said Donnie TeBeest, $3 billion in improvements. Xcel Energy project manager. “Without the new line, According to Xcel Energy, the Power for the Plains it would have been a challenge to regulate the flow of initiative is not only improving the reliability and capaci- power in that area while meeting the growing needs for ty of the region’s high-voltage transmission network, but electricity.” also is providing opportunities to tap cheaper sources The new line was envisioned six years ago when the of power. New transmission connections to the east are Southwest Power Pool identified possible bottlenecks saving approximately $60 million annually in purchased and voltage issues in the eastern Panhandle, which had power costs. Additionally, the improvements are provid- not seen significant upgrades in power infrastructure in ing pathways to move wind and solar power generated in decades. Xcel Energy took on the project as part of its this region to new markets. Xcel Energy has added 750 Power for the Plains transmission enhancement initiative MW of additional wind energy capacity to its regional and started planning the project in 2012. energy mix since 2015. “The Bowers-to-Howard project is one of dozens of high-value improvements we have completed in recent — Source: Xcel Energy years,” said David Hudson, president of Southwest- For more information, ern Public Service Company, an Xcel Energy company. go to www.powerfortheplains.com. DONG ENERGY REACHES AGREEMENT WITH THE CROWN ESTATE FOR HORNSEA ZONE Dong Energy has reached an agreement with the Crown Estate, an independent commercial business created by the an Act of Parliament in the United Kingdom, to re- configure the Hornsea zone as part of the company’s Round 3 offshore wind development zones. Following Dong Energy’s acquisition of the remainder of the Hornsea zone from Main- stream Renewable Power and Siemens Financial Services in 2015, Dong Energy has concluded its zone appraisal process, which resulted in project-specific agreements for lease being agreed on for three projects: Hornsea Project Two, Hornsea Proj- ect Three, and Hornsea Proj- Dong Energy ect Four. windsystemsmag.com 43 CONSTRUCTION

The previously identified Hornsea tate for the Hornsea projects, which decision for Hornsea Project Two Project Three has been split into two highlights once again our absolute is expected to take place later this separate projects — Hornsea Project commitment to the U.K. offshore year. Three to the east of Hornsea Project wind market,” said Brent Cheshire, Hornsea Project Three, which will Two and Hornsea Project Four to the Dong Energy’s U.K. country chair- shortly be taken forward to external west of Hornsea Project Two. man. “Having just confirmed that we consultation, is estimated to have the This follows Dong Energy’s recent are building Hornsea Project One — potential for 1-2 GW capacity. Horn- announcement that it will build the the world’s biggest offshore wind sea Project Four could add around a 1.2-GW Hornsea Project One, which farm — we see these projects as a further 1 GW. is expected to be capable of powering vital part of our post-2020 pipeline.” well over 1 million U.K. homes. Hornsea Project Two has been — Source: Dong Energy “We are pleased to have reached identified as having a capacity of For more information, this agreement with the Crown Es- up to 1.8 GW. A planning consent go to www.dongenergy.com.

BLM ISSUES ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR PHASE I WIND TURBINE DEVELOPMENT FOR CCSM PROJECT

The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Rawlins Field Office has released the second of two environmental assessments, along with a draft “Finding of No New Significant Impact,” for Phase I of the Choke- cherry and Sierra Madre Wind Energy (CCSM) Proj- ect, a 1,000-turbine wind farm being developed by Power Company of Wyoming LLC (PCW). This environmental assessment analyzes and evalu- ates PCW’s site-specific plan of development for the initial 500 wind turbines, turbine access roads, and associated facilities. The environmental assessment is tiered to the 2012 project-wide Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision, which approved the Permitting CCSM Project site as suitable for wind energy devel- Dashboard opment. The 500 wind turbines in Phase I are located within the western portion of the Chokecherry Wind conservation measure. Additionally, PCW intends to Development Area and within the western portion of place 27,500 acres of private land into a conservation the Sierra Madre Wind Development Area. easement for the benefit of greater sage grouse and The Phase I development area totals approximate- other wildlife. ly 75,000 acres of private, federal, and state land. Phase I of the CCSM Project — which is at 1,500 However, the long-term surface disturbance will only MW of nameplate capacity — is estimated to produce amount to approximately 849 acres, or 1.1 percent of nearly 6 million MWh of clean electricity per year, the land. reducing greenhouse gas emissions by millions of tons Reflecting six major revisions and many more minor annually. revisions, the Phase I layout is designed to avoid and Documents related to the CCSM Project environ- minimize potential impacts to birds and other wildlife mental impact statement (EIS) and the two environ- by using over five years’ worth of scientific data gath- mental assessments are available from the BLM Raw- ered through methods approved by the BLM and U.S. lins website or from the BLM ePlanning website. Fish and Wildlife Service. PCW has voluntarily set aside more than 105,000 — Source: The Power Company acres, or approximately 33 percent, of the 320,000- of Wyoming LLC acre Overland Trail Cattle Company ranch as spe- For more information, go to cific turbine no-build areas — a significant proactive www.powercompanyofwyoming.com.

44 APRIL | 2016

CROSSWINDS

GOOGLE X REACHES NEW HEIGHTS WITH MAKANI ENERGY KITES

Makani doesn’t make a typical steel “Our new energy kite will reach times more power than earlier ver- wind turbine tower, such as GE’s higher, fly longer, and generate 30 sions,” Felker said. “We’re moving widely used 1.5-MW model that consists of 116-foot blades on top of Makani a 212-foot tower for a total of 328 feet from the base to the nacelle. Founded in 2006, the Almeda, Cal- ifornia-based company made a name for itself in the wind industry by developing a low-cost renewable energy solution using kite technology to generate electricity. An energy kite is a plane-like device with rotors that flies around like a kite. Its system is made up of four parts: the kite, the tether, the ground station, and the computer station. The rotors lift the kite off the ground, but once it’s in flight, the kite generates power by flying in large circles where the wind is strong and consistent. Makani’s 30-kW energy kite prototype perched on a ground station prototype at one of the company’s test sites in California. The wind allows the rotors to work as individual turbines, and the energy created powers an onboard generator that sends the generated energy down the tether to the grid. In 2013, Makani was acquired by X, Google’s research and development facility that’s operated by Al- phabet Inc. and develops advanced technologies. According to Fort Felk- er, the general manager for Makani at X, the company has made a lot of progress since joining X, including improving how the kites launch and land, how they fly in variable wind conditions, and how to generate power more efficiently.

Makani “Google X Reaches New Heights with Makani Energy Kites” The Makani team hand-carries the 30-kW energy kite prototype back from the ground station after continued on pg.48 ... a successful day of field testing.

windsystemsmag.com 45 Giving Wind Direction

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from our proof-of-concept phase to a when it’s not flying. The computer sta- the company has been developing the stage where we want to test ourselves tion combines GPS, sensors, and oth- latest version of the energy kite that against the real-world challenges we’ll er advanced technologies to guide the can fly higher, last longer, and generate face if we want to bring electricity to kite in the flight path that will allow more energy than earlier versions — up people.” it to maximize the amount of energy to 30 times the power for kites that According to Felker, Makani was in- it generates. are three times the size of the current spired by an idea conceived in 1979 that “Conventional wind turbines must prototypes. was only recently made possible because be sited in locations where the wind is “We’ve incorporated redundancy of technological advancements. fast and consistent enough to gener- for extra safety and reliability, includ- “Carbon fiber — the material we use ate enough power to offset costs, but ing three flight computers instead of for parts of our kite and tether — has less than 15 percent of all land around one, more rotors to keep the kite flying become stronger, lighter, and cheaper, the world is suitable,” Felker said. in case one breaks, and backup com- which has made it physically possible to “Energy kites, on the other hand, can munications,” Felker said. “We have fly a small kite in strong winds,” Felk- be economically sited in a wide array also improved the durability of the sys- er said. “Also, Moore’s law has made of locations, including sites that are tem so that it can handle more variable computers smaller and more powerful, too remote from roads, too hilly, or weather conditions and last for years. making it possible to direct the path not windy enough for conventional We’re ready to take the final steps to- of the kite for optimal energy genera- turbines. In the continental United ward providing electricity to people tion using a flight computer that is now States alone, energy kites could gen- in the real world, which means mov- about the same size as a smartphone.” erate wind power economically in ing from proof-of-concept to flying in These breakthroughs have allowed over two-thirds of the landmass, more real-world conditions. We’ve started Makani to replace tons of steel and than four times the area available to working on a pilot project in Hawaii to concrete with smart software and ad- conventional wind turbines.” test long-duration flights of the kite for vanced materials. As a part of X, Makani is focused the first time so we can learn as much “Makani’s kite actually operates on on creating a “moonshot,” which is as possible and feed it back to the de- the same aerodynamic principles as a Google’s catchall description for in- sign process, including what our power conventional wind turbine, but is able novations that could revolutionize the curve is and how to efficiently maintain to replace tons of steel with lightweight world. According to Felker, there are the kite over long periods of time.” electronics and smart software,” Felker three factors that constitute a moon- In May 2015, Makani began testing said. “By building just the tip of a wind shot: one, if it is a big problem for the an 84-foot-long model that can gener- turbine blade, which makes most of world, in this case, turning wind into ate up to 600 kW of energy. Prior to the energy, and replacing the rest of the a viable, clean source of renewable en- that, its kite models were only 28 feet structure with a computer system and ergy. Second, you need breakthrough in length. more advanced materials, and without technology, and Makani’s technolo- Despite the company’s progress, a tower holding them in place, energy gy certainly meets that criterion as it Makani is still in the early stages of kites eliminate 90 percent of the ma- could dramatically change the calculus developing its kite systems. However, terials of conventional wind turbines. of wind power. Felker said they’re on the right track to Because the kites are more aerody- “Its technology reduces the cost making their energy kites commercial- namic and able to access stronger, more and complexity of harvesting wind,” ly available. consistent wind at higher altitudes, we Felker said. “It moves us from an in- “It’s still early days for Makani, think they’ll be able to generate 50 per- dustrial-era solution involving tons of and we have a lot to learn about the cent more energy. The lower cost and steel and open space to a control sys- technology and what it would take higher energy output more than qua- tems problem involving sensors and to make renewable energy more ac- druples the amount of land available in smart software.” cessible,” Felker said. “We’re in favor the U.S. for wind energy production.” Lastly, there needs to be proof that of measures like the PTC extension Also, because the energy kite is the moonshot is viable. Makani has that make the market more stable lightweight, it can fly at high altitudes, done so by logging more than 100 and could help us as a society realize allowing it to access stronger, steadier hours of flying time generating power. the benefits of many kinds of renew- winds and generate more clean ener- Makani is one of many success- able energy sooner.” gy. Its tether is made up of conduc- ful X endeavors, including Google tive wires that connect the kite to the Glass, high-altitude Wi-Fi balloons, For more information, ground station where the kite is parked and driverless cars. More recently, go to www.google.com/makani.

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