In a noteworthy collaboration, Natural Power, serving as owner's engineer on behalf of Romande Energie, has successfully overseen the construction of the Sainte-Croix Wind Farm in Switzerland. The six-turbine project, strategically located on the Jura balcony in the Canton of Vaud, has the capacity to generate an impressive 22 million kWh per year, making it a crucial addition to the country's renewable energy landscape.
Elevated to the status of national interest by the Federal Court in alignment with the Federal Energy Law, the Sainte-Croix Wind Farm stands as Switzerland's exclusive wind farm constructed during the 2022-2023 period. This milestone achievement is now contributing clean electricity to the Swiss population during the winter season.
Joris Robillard, lead business development manager at Natural Power, expressed pride in the company's role as a key delivery partner throughout the critical construction phase. Robillard highlighted the significance of bringing this substantial project to fruition and delivering much-needed renewable energy to complement the nation's domestic energy mix.
Natural Power's contributions encompassed an initial technical red flag review of the TSA and operations and maintenance contracts. The company also conducted a high-level examination of the ice detection and de-icing system. Furthermore, Natural Power provided owner's engineering services throughout the construction phase, ensuring a thorough and meticulous approach.
The scope of Natural Power's involvement included ground inspections of main components before erection, turbine pre and post-commissioning inspections, and a comprehensive review of the take-over documentation process. This ensured that the wind farm met the technical specifications outlined in the contract, guaranteeing correct and efficient operation.
Matthieu Principaud, asset manager at Romande Energie, expressed satisfaction in witnessing the project come to life after more than two decades of development. As the first wind farm in the Canton of Vaud, the collaboration with Natural Power played a crucial role in ensuring a quality and smooth construction phase, particularly during the commissioning process.
The successful completion of the Sainte-Croix Wind Farm marks a significant achievement in Switzerland's commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, setting the stage for further advancements in the country's wind energy sector.
