Lifetime extension of wind turbines

Continued operation of wind turbines

After 20 years, it is far from over

Many wind turbines reach their planned service life after around 20 years – but technically they are often still fully functional. Continued operation offers operators the opportunity to continue to use existing plants economically, conserve resources and continue energy production.

On wind-turbine.com you will find leading experts, surveyors and consulting firms who will support you in professionally preparing the continued operation of your wind turbines.

Why it is worth continuing to operate

• Securing yields: Functioning plants can continue to feed electricity into the grid and generate revenue.
• Avoid costs: You save high investments in dismantling or repowering.
• Acting sustainably: Existing infrastructure will continue to be used – this reduces material and energy consumption.
• Value Received: A tested and documented system also remains attractive for buyers.

Prerequisites for continued operation

In order for operation beyond the design lifetime, clear evidence and an objective evaluation are required:

• Technical inspection (BPW report): An independent expert report ("Evaluation and Testing for Continued Operation") analyses load assumptions, material fatigue and the structural condition of your wind turbine.
• Profitability assessment: After the end of the EEG remuneration, yield, market prices and operating costs should be reassessed.
• Permit & Insurance: Many authorities and insurers require a documented condition assessment as a basis for continued operation.
• Consulting & Strategy: Expert advice helps to minimise risks and make the most of opportunities.

Significance for asset marketing

Continued operation also plays a central role in the sale of wind farms and individual wind turbines.
Used wind turbines and entire projects are regularly offered on wind-turbine.com's marketplace – but serious transactions require a neutral appraisal.

Only with an independent assessment can the technical condition, the remaining useful life and thus the fair market value of a system be realistically assessed.
For buyers and sellers alike, this creates trust and transparency – and forms the basis for successful deals in the international market.

Your way to continued operation

1. Check inventory data: Collect operational, maintenance, and permitting records.
2. Commissioning a technical report: Have the condition and remaining service life of your system evaluated.
3. Analyze profitability: Check yields, costs and possible marketing options.
4. Making a strategic decision: Continued operation, sale or repowering – based on well-founded data.

Find experts on wind-turbine.com

In the Continued Operation section, you will find qualified experts, technical consultants and service providers who support operators in the preparation, evaluation and marketing of wind turbines.

Whether you want to continue operating your system or sell it – an expert valuation is the key to safety, transparency and economic success.

Result

The continued operation of wind turbines is a worthwhile and sustainable option for operators – and at the same time an important step towards securing the performance and marketability of existing assets.
With the right appraisals and experienced partners, your systems will remain profitable for longer – and attractive on the market.