Wind operators collaborate to boost turbine performance

2oWind, already has members that own more than 60% of the world’s offshore turbines

Windfarm operators have formed an online community to share knowledge and experience of turbine failure. 

The peer-to-peer online platform, called o2oWind, already has members that own more than 60% of the world’s offshore turbines, including EDPR, Vattenfall, RWE, DONG Energy, and Acciona Energia.

The forum allows discussion on common operation and maintenance (O&M) concerns, in an attempt to deliver best practice through collaboration.

Mårten Nilsson, who is heading o2oWind, said: “When it comes to troubleshooting the O&M issues they encounter, windfarm owners are not competitors. They are in the same boat, and that’s why adopting a collaborative approach to problem-solving makes sense. Our members recognise that the most valuable information for turbine owners is the hands-on experience of their peers.”

Compared with many other industries, the wind sector still has teething issues that are difficult to change in a sector that has often operated in isolation. Members will share the common objective of optimising turbine yields, and specialist discussions will revolve around issues with main components such as rotor blades, gearboxes or substations.

Alan Henderson, head of technical asset management at RWE Innogy, added: “Low yields and costly standstills have plagued the industry for too long, with no long-term gains for anyone. We need to collaborate to reach the goal.”

The website can be found at o2owind.com.