The wind energy industry stands at a crossroads. On one side, there’s the allure of groundbreaking innovations and ever larger turbines promising increased efficiency. On the other is a growing realization that rapid advancement might be coming at the cost of reliability and maintainability. This article explores the tension between innovation and practicality in the wind energy sector, arguing for a more measured approach to technological progress.
The promise of innovation
‘Build a better mousetrap, and the world will beat a path to your door.’ This adage, often misattributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, encapsulates the American spirit of innovation. Thomas Edison, the famed inventor, expressed a similar sentiment: ‘There’s a better way to do it – find it.’
These ideals have driven American inventors, scientists, and engineers for nearly a century, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible across various industries. However, as we apply these mottos to established industries like wind energy, we must ask: are we pushing too hard, too fast?
The reality: challenges in wind turbine maintenance
At the recent AMI Wind Turbine Blades event in Boston, Massachusetts, industry insiders painted a sobering picture of the current state of wind energy. While academic presentations showcased cutting-edge engineering concepts, conversations with operators and maintenance professionals revealed a different story.
