As new wind energy projects are rapidly constructed, onshore and offshore, the world’s installed wind generation capacity is only set to escalate. But with growth comes challenges. In this issue of PES, we take a look at how the innovators in our industry are coming together to make light work of them.
How is lidar helping respond to the need for accurate and reliable wind measurement data? Can the problem of rain erosion damage to wind turbine blades be eradicated with leading edge maintenance? And is it really possible for underwater robotic systems to improve the efficiency of maintaining offshore wind monopiles and foundations? PES asks all these questions, and lots more, of the experts in the following pages.
We also look at the enormous potential that the North Sea holds for offshore wind, taking a trip to Norway, which after decades as a major exporter of oil and gas to mainland Europe, is now looking to offshore wind in its drive to transition to cleaner energy sources.
The focus turns to London in June, for the return of Global Offshore Wind 2023. The destination is timely, given that the UK now generates more of its electricity from wind turbines than gas.
