Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
PO474: Engineering Lifespan: Real-World Effects of Wind Turbine Revamping
Asier Olcoz, Senior Project Engineeer, UL Solutions
Abstract
This presentation explores a range of engineering strategies aimed at extending the operational lifespan of wind turbines, drawing on practical insights from real-world repowering and upgrade projects. A key focus is the relocation of entire wind farms, involving the complete dismantling and reassembly of turbines at new sites. These complex operations present significant technical and logistical challenges, including adaptation to different wind resource profiles, structural modifications to foundations or towers, and navigation of site-specific regulatory requirements. In addition to relocation, the presentation examines retrofit interventions that go beyond standard component replacement. Notably, it highlights cases where original blades were replaced with longer ones to increase the swept area and improve energy capture. These upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to full turbine replacement and have demonstrated substantial performance gains while maintaining economic viability. Further, the presentation addresses aerodynamic enhancements through the installation of add-on devices such as vortex generators and trailing edge extensions. These modifications are designed to improve blade efficiency and overall turbine output. For such cases, advanced structural simulations and load analyses were conducted to assess the impact on the remaining service life of the turbines, supported by operational performance data. By showcasing these applied strategies, the presentation provides a practical perspective on how existing wind assets can be optimized and repurposed. This approach not only contributes to the sustainability goals of the wind energy sector but also unlocks new value from amortized infrastructure. The findings underscore the importance of engineering innovation in maximizing asset longevity and enhancing the cost-effectiveness of renewable energy systems.
No recording available for this poster.
