In 2012, the expiration of the Production Tax Credit was looming, and in a last-ditch effort to benefit from the tax credit, many companies started the construction of new wind turbines. Although the credit was extended, many producers are still unsure about the future of their projects, and are looking into the post warranty operations and management provisions to find cost savings.
As these companies study the rising costs of operations and maintenance services, many are finding that the turbines’ gearboxes and generators often fail before scheduled maintenance can take place. To discuss ways to remedy this problem, Wind Energy Update is hosting an event this month to use a strong post warranty maintenance strategy to boost revenues.
“North America has huge potential for development in the realms of O&M,” said Will Broad, director of Wind Energy Update. “The goal of the Wind O&M Summit in Dallas is to help Operators reduce maintenance costs, at the same time, connect with the wider industry to share experience and best practice.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association, as the demand for wind energy has grown, many utilities have switched away from outsourcing maintenance and are now performing it themselves, making it crucial to lower post-warranty costs.
With the right testing, these utilities could see their maintenance costs fall even further as asset failure becomes less common.