Equinor's 30MW Hywind Scotland floating offshore wind farm is set to undergo a significant hiatus of up to four months this year for extensive maintenance on its Siemens Gamesa turbines, which have been in operation off Aberdeen for the past seven years.
Operational data analysis has prompted the need for this maintenance, marking the first such operation for a floating wind farm. To ensure safety, the turbines will be towed to Wergeland port in Norway during the upcoming summer season, where the Wergeland group in Gulen will conduct the necessary work.
An Equinor spokesperson explained, “From operational data, we have identified the need for heavy maintenance on the wind farm turbines. This is the first such operation for a floating farm, and the safest method to do this is to tow the turbines to shore and execute the operations in sheltered conditions.” The maintenance is anticipated to span three to four months.
Equinor has entrusted the onshore works contract to the Wergeland group in Gulen, Norway, chosen for its proximity, offshore wind expertise, and adequate water depth to service the turbines.
The Equinor spokesperson highlighted that collaboration with turbine supplier Siemens Gamesa will be integral to the process. Emphasizing the significance of the project, Equinor noted, “Hywind Scotland is a break-through pilot project as the first-ever floating wind farm. For the past six to seven years, it has been operational with high capacity factors.” This development underscores the evolving nature of offshore wind projects and the industry's commitment to ensuring the ongoing efficiency and safety of renewable energy installations.
