Federal Institute develops tool for assessing wind turbines

09.04.2025

Source: E & M powernews

A new digital tool is set to help companies decide whether older wind turbines should continue to operate, be upgraded or replaced.

Many older wind turbines are being taken off the grid even though they are safe and stable enough to be used for longer. According to a statement from the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), this is shown by engineering studies.
BAM is therefore developing a digital tool in collaboration with Jörss-Blunck-Ordemann GmbH and RWE Renewables GmbH to support companies in deciding whether to decommission or continue using wind turbines.

"We want to provide interested parties with a simple modular system so that they can make the best decision in just a few steps," says Ronald Schneider from the Wind@BAM competence center. The tool is linked to a digital twin of the turbine, into which all current data on the state of maintenance can flow via sensors and monitoring systems. If the tool identifies weak points, the competence center offers specific solutions for upgrading the support structures.

Test at an offshore wind farm in the North Sea

This should make it clear, for example, whether it is still worthwhile continuing to operate the turbine or whether the support structures are still strong enough. The tool should also be able to show whether it makes economic sense to upgrade the turbine or whether it is more worthwhile to completely dismantle it and invest in a new and more efficient turbine.

"Until now, companies that operate wind farms have been left alone with this decision," explains Schneider "Every dismantling also ties up scarce resources in manufacturing and installation companies as well as in the ships that transport offshore turbines. These capacities are needed in Germany for an accelerated wind expansion."

The digital decision tool is being tested for its practical suitability at an offshore wind farm in the North Sea that has not been named. The joint project is being funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection with around 780,000 euros.

Author: Katia Meyer-Tien